Sunburn 2

Symptoms

In a first-degree burn, symptoms include redness, sensitivity, and pain. Long exposure can lead to the swelling and blistering of a second-degree burn.

Prevention

Sunburn can be prevented by avoiding too much sun, particularly between 10 am and 2 pm and in midsummer. Sunscreens and sun-blocking lotions protect by filtering out the UV rays that cause sunburn. A sunscreen of at least SPF 15 is recommended. Make sure you apply sunscreen thoroughly to all exposed skin, so you don’t leave unprotected areas that can burn.
For the most protection from sunburn, apply sunscreen 45 minutes before you go outside. Apply it to dry skin, and reapply after swimming or activities that make you sweat. Reapply sunscreen often if you’re outside for a long period. A waterproof sunscreen will stay on until you rub or towel it off, at which time you’ll need to reapply it.
The sun’s rays are more intense at higher altitudes, nearer the equator, on the water, and in snow and can be reflected by sand, cement, water, and snow. Protect yourself with sunscreen. Thickly applied zinc oxide products block all the sun’s rays and are good for protecting the nose and lips.
Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds. They damage the skin, despite what tanning-salon owners and employees might tell you.
Use sunscreen even on cloudy days.
Use lip balm with the sunscreen PABA to prevent sunburned lips, wear UV-opaque sunglasses to protect your eyes, and be sure to apply sunscreen around eyes, ears, mouth, and any bald or thinning areas on your head.
UV rays can penetrate through loosely woven clothing and beach umbrellas, so wear sunscreen even when using these other forms of sun protection. Also, look for the sun-protective clothing that’s now available, including shirts, pants, and hats for adults and children.
Some medications can make you more sensitive to the sun. These medications cause you to burn with little exposure to the sun. Before starting a medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist about the possible reactions to sunlight. Medications that react to sunlight include doxycycline and sulfa antibiotics.

Prevention for Children

For children less than 6 months of age, exposure to sun and use of sunscreen, other than zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, is not recommended. Their skin is especially sensitive.
Infants over 6 months of age should be kept out of the sun or have limited exposure to the sun and should wear sunscreen.
Sunscreens with a minimum SPF of 15 are recommended for children. Avoid alcohol-based sunscreens and those with PABA, because they can cause irritation.
Children should wear hats when in the sun.
Be especially careful with children who have light skin and hair, because their skin burns more easily.
Children in strollers should wear sunscreen, because stroller trays can reflect the sun’s rays.

Self-Care

Sunburn is usually uncomfortable for 24 to 48 hours. If you have sunburn, stay out of the sun until your skin recovers, and try these suggestions to relieve symptoms:

The best treatment for sunburn is to soak the affected area in cold water (not ice water) or apply cold compresses for 15 minutes. This will reduce swelling and provide quick pain relief.
If sunburn affects large areas of your body, soak in a cool bath. Half a cup of cornstarch, oatmeal, or baking soda in the bath will help reduce inflammation and soothe sunburned skin.
Adults who do not have stomach problems or a history of allergy to aspirin products can take aspirin to reduce inflammation.

Sunscreen Facts

The SPF indicates the amount of time the sunscreen provides protection. Reapplication doesn’t increase the time allowed in the sun before burning.

Sunscreen should protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Today’s best products contain an ingredient called Parsol 1789.

Do not confuse sunscreen, which blocks the sun’s rays, with sun lotions or oils, which mainly lubricate and can enhance the sun’s rays. Self-tanning creams also do not protect against sunburn, although they are an excellent way to get a tan safely.