A very common side effect of long hours of exposure to the sun, which is known as sunburn.
The symptoms of sunburn is usually temporary which includes redness of the skin which is painful to touch and sometimes warm to touch as well. By the time the skin starts to become painful and red, the damage has been done. The pain is worst between 6 and 48 hours after sun exposure. In severe sunburns, blistering of the skin may occur.
Sunburn is better prevented than treated. Sunscreen and sunblock products are available in the market. Experts advise the use of at least SPF 30 for sunblock and sunscreen products. However, if you do get a sunburn:
• Try taking a cool shower or bath or placing wet, cold wash rags on the burn.
• Avoid products that contain benzocaine, lidocaine, or petroleum (like Vaseline).
• If blisters are present, dry bandages may help prevent infection.
• If your skin is not blistering, moisturizing cream may be applied to relieve discomfort.
• Over the counter medications, like ibuprofen, may help to relieve pain from sunburn. DO NOT give aspirin to children.
• Cortisone creams may help reduce the inflammation.
• Loose cotton clothing should be worn.
The following are tips to prevent sunburn:
• Avoid sun exposure during hours of peak sun ray intensity.
• Apply generous amounts of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Pay special attention to your face, nose, ears, and shoulders. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection.
• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to sun exposure to allow penetration. Re-apply after swimming and every 2 hours while you are outdoors.
• Wear sun hats. There is also SPF clothing and swimwear available.
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection.
• Use a lip balm with sunscreen.
