What You Should Know about Sunburns
With the warmer weather, most of us will be spending more time outdoors. Enjoy the outdoors, but protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
How serious is a sunburn?
Sunburn, overexposure to the sun’s rays, places you at higher risk of skin cancer and unprotected exposure can cause irreversible damage and prematurely age your skin.
How do I prevent a sunburn?
- Clothing - wear long sleeves, a hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen with an SPF
- If possible, stay inside when the rays are strongest - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What SPF should I use?
The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) you use depends on your skin type. An SPF of 15 means, that if your skin normally turns red after 10 minutes of sun exposure, it will take 15 times longer for your skin to burn, or 150 minutes. And be sure to reapply every 20 minutes. Dermatologists recommend using a minimum SPF 15.
How do I treat a sunburn?
- If a sunburn is red and peels within a few days, treat with cool baths, bland moisturizers or over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams.
- If a sunburn blisters and is accompanied by a headache, chills or a fever, get medical attention right away.
Tell me more...
Read Cecilia Mullen's article on Sunburns and Sunburn Damage.