Sun exposure has fantastic health benefits, but too much can lead to health concerns. Here are some tips from Brandon Douglass, PA-C at Hillsdale Medical Associates on how to enjoy the sun safely and what to do if you or your loved ones get a sunburn or overheats.
Sunburns: Types & Treatments
Mild sunburns look red and feel irritated or hot to the touch, but do not blister. Treat the burn by cooling it as quickly as possible and applying aloe gel.
More severe sunburns can cause the top layer of your skin to die, leading your skin to blister and peel away. If your skin is peeling, leave it alone. You can help the top layer of your skin heal by moisturizing it regularly.
Repeated sunburns can cause your skin to change color and texture. You might notice freckles, moles, sunspots or wrinkles appearing over time. Your risk of skin cancer also increases the more often your skin is severely sunburned.
The easiest way to limit sunburn risk is to avoid going outside when the sun is at its brightest. Early mornings and late evenings have a lower risk of sun exposure than the middle of the day.
If you have a beach day or outdoor plans in the middle of the day, apply sunscreen on your skin while it’s dry and make sure your skin is dry when you reapply sunscreen later in the day. You can also wear long-sleeved shirts and keep your skin covered to reduce sun exposure.
Overheating & Dehydration
When you spend a long time outside in the heat, make sure you’re drinking enough water. Signs of dehydration might include nausea, weakness or feeling tired.
If you start to feel unlike yourself, help your body recover by getting out of the sun and drinking water or something with electrolytes in it, like Gatorade.
If you are feeling worse after these steps, visit your local walk-in or primary care clinic. In severe cases, go to the emergency room.
