Make sure you have fun in the sun this summer
As summer comes into full swing, everyone is soaking up the sun and basking in the summer heat. Be forewarned, however, that playing in the sun isn’t all fun. There are some very real problems that can arise if you don’t take steps to protect your skin.
One of the worst and most painful summer problems is sunburn. According to Mary Parks Lamb, MD, this problem is extremely common, and especially prevalent in the summer.
“Even though most of us are fully aware of the dangers of the sun, sometimes we inadvertently get too much exposure.”
Here are some quick tips from Dr. Lamb on how to protect your skin from the sun:
Rise and Shine
The sun’s peak hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. can really do a number on your skin. If possible, do your outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the day. If you do have to be outside during either peak time, try to find a shaded area, sit under an umbrella, or wear a hat and protective clothing. The beach might be especially tempting at 3 p.m., but do yourself a favor and wait until later.
Always Lather Up
If you’re going outdoors, use sunscreen. An SPF of at least 30 is recommended, and higher SPFs (like 45+) are an option if you want extra protection. Don’t forget to lather up your lips, too! Wear lip balm with an SPF of at least 30 to keep your lips smooth and protected.
Don’t Miss a Spot
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen everywhere – even the hard-to-reach places. The back of your knees, back of your neck, back of your ears, elbows, and feet are all commonly missed places. If you can’t reach, recruit a friend to help.
Don’t Expose Yourself
We know all women want to be bronze goddesses, and laying out in your bikini might sound sexy, but sun exposure is anything but. Sunbathing can damage your skin in both the short and long-term. Try self-tanners or a spray tan if you want to have more color. If you really must get that natural summer tan, make sure to gradually build up your exposure time.
Know Your Prescriptions
Some prescription drugs, herbal remedies, and even over-the-counter medications can make you more susceptible to sunburn. Make sure you keep tabs on the drugs in your system before you go outdoors. If you’re planning ahead, consider taking necessary medications at night, and be cautious while you enjoy the sun.
Dr. Lamb also has some helpful hints if you’ve already gotten sunburn. For immediate relief, try applying a cool compress or soaking in a tub of cool water. Aloe vera and cooling gels are also good for reducing inflammation and helping your skin feel less burned. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen, etc.) can also ease pain and calm inflamed skin.
There are also specific guidelines on how to treat your damaged skin.
“If blisters occur, do not pop them; allow them to rupture on their own. Apply antibiotic ointment to soothe skin and prevent infection once blisters open. Avoid any further sun exposure until your skin has healed.”
She also suggests wearing loose, soft, cotton clothing over burned skin, and avoiding itchy materials.
Most sunburned areas will not scar, although pigment changes can occur – you’re especially susceptible if you expose your skin to the sun immediately after it’s been burned.
Above all else, try to keep summertime fun to a maximum this year by following sun exposure guidelines. If you protect your skin right, you shouldn’t need any of the treatment tips. If you protect your skin and moderate your sun exposure, your skin will be healthy for the summers to come.