Summer is finally upon us! Bring on the BBQ’s, hikes, camping trips, fun in the sun, and trips to the coast. Summer is a great time to get outdoors and explore, but if we’re not careful, it comes with sunburns and bug bites. Here are some easy, at-home tips and preventing and treating these summer side effects!
Sunburn
Excessive sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancers, including melanoma, which is the deadliest type. Premature skin aging can also result from sun exposure – think crows feet, wrinkles, and thin skin! One bad burn can increase your risk, but cumulative exposure is just as damaging.
Preventing sunburn and limiting sun exposure are the best ways to reduce your risk.
- Blond and fair-skinned individuals are most at risk for sunburn, since they do not produce as much protective melanin as dark-skinned individuals do.
- Limit time spent in the sun between peak hours (11-3pm). This is the time when UV rays are most intense and damaging to the skin.
- Wear a hat and other loose, light-colored clothing whenever possible.
- Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF15 that contains zinc oxide, a safe and natural sunscreen. Make sure your sunscreen is effective against both UVA and UVB. Avoid products that contain harmful ingredients such as octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), para amino benzoic acid, dioxybenzone, and oxybenzone.
- Here’s a link to find healthier sunscreens: http://www.ewg.org/2014sunscreen/
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you go out in the sun, and re-apply after sweating or swimming or every 2 hours.
- Remember that you can still get burned on a cloudy day!
Signs of sunburn include pink or red skin that feels warm and tender. After a few days, the affected area may begin to peel or flake. If you get burned, try some of the following things:
- Apply cool compresses or take a cool bath.
- Slather on natural aloe vera gel liberally. Aloe is both cooling and anti-inflammatory.
- Avoid any further sun exposure until the burn has healed (usually 3-7 days).
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
If you have blistering skin on most of your body or experience severe pain, headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting, seek medical attention as hospitalization may be necessary.
