When spending time outdoors, it is crucial to take precautions in order to avoid sunburn. Sunburn can cause damage to the skin, leading to issues such as premature aging and skin cancer. According to Dr. Ida Orengo, the chair of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine in Texas, any level of sunburn is harmful and does not provide any benefits. Many people mistakenly believe that getting a sunburn at the beginning of the season will strengthen their skin to prevent further damage, but this is not true.
Sun damage should be taken seriously, as it can lead to health problems like skin cancer as you age. The American Academy of Dermatology Association reports that 1 in 5 people in the United States will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, making it the most common type of cancer in the country. It is essential to protect yourself from excessive ultraviolet exposure throughout the year, especially during the summer when you are more likely to spend time outside.
While it is important to prevent sunburn, it can still occur unintentionally. If you find yourself with a sunburn this summer, dermatologists recommend the following steps for treatment:
1. Take cool showers: Frequent cool showers can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation and swelling associated with sunburn. Avoid hot showers as they can worsen the condition. Use mild soap or no soap at all and pat yourself dry instead of harshly rubbing a towel over your skin.
2. Use anti-inflammatory medicine: Since sunburn causes inflammation, you can take medication such as ibuprofen or Tylenol to reduce inflammation and pain, unless you are allergic to these drugs.
3. Apply gentle moisturizer: Dermatologists recommend using mild moisturizers like Aquaphor or petroleum jelly to help repair the skin barrier. Avoid lotions with additives or acids that may cause further irritation. Aloe vera gel can also be beneficial, as long as it does not contain additional ingredients such as benzocaine.
4. Try cold compresses: Applying cold compresses, such as a wet, cool towel or refrigerated towel, can provide soothing relief to sunburned skin.
5. Stay hydrated: Sunburn can cause fluid loss from the skin, so it is important to drink plenty of water to maintain hydration.
To prevent future sunburns, take the following precautions:
– Apply sunscreen: Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours. Use a teaspoon of sunscreen for the face and a shot glass for the body. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
– Avoid peak sun hours: Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. Wear protective clothing such as hats, long-sleeved shirts, and clothing with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF).
– Seek shade: Take breaks in shaded areas when the sun is at its strongest to protect your skin.
Remember, even one sunburn can have long-term consequences, so it is important to take preventative measures and avoid sunburn at all costs.
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