Sunburns are painful, red, and can even cause the skin to blister and peel. Beyond discomfort, sunburns damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Therefore, preventing sunburns should be a priority when spending time outdoors.
Preventing Sunburns: Key Steps for Protection
To protect your skin from sun damage, it’s crucial to seek shade whenever possible, wear sun-protective clothing, and apply sunscreen. Opt for long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection to minimize exposure. Experts recommend using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on all areas of skin not covered by clothing.
“No matter your skin tone, you can get a sunburn if you are outside without proper protection,” says Dr. Veena Vanchinathan, a board-certified dermatologist. “Both tanning and sunburning harm the skin, and repeated sunburns lead to cumulative damage over time.”
What to Do if You Get Sunburned
If you find yourself sunburned, the first step is to seek shelter from the sun immediately. Once indoors, Dr. Vanchinathan, along with the American Academy of Dermatology, offers several recommendations for soothing your skin:
Cool Baths or Showers: Take cool baths or showers to alleviate pain. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry.
Moisturize: While your skin is still damp, apply a moisturizer containing aloe vera or soy to reduce discomfort. Calamine lotion or a cool, damp washcloth may also provide relief. You can also try a colloidal oatmeal bath or a cooling after-sun product.
Pain Relief: Take aspirin or ibuprofen to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Stay Hydrated: Sunburns can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to drink extra water.
Avoid Popping Blisters: If your sunburn results in blisters, resist the urge to pop them. Blisters indicate a second-degree burn and should be left intact to heal. Apply petroleum jelly to protect them as they heal and keep them clean to avoid infection
When to Seek Medical Help
In most cases, sunburns can be treated at home. However, in severe instances, medical attention may be required. If your sunburn worsens, or if you experience symptoms such as high fever, chills, nausea, or signs of infection like pus or swelling, it’s important to consult a doctor or dermatologist.
“A sunburn is often treatable at home, but sometimes symptoms need professional care,” explains Dr. Vanchinathan. “This is also a good opportunity for a dermatologist to examine your skin for potential signs of skin cancer.”
By following these steps for prevention and treatment, you can protect your skin and ensure a quicker recovery if you do experience a sunburn.
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