Sunburns 101: The Risks, Prevention & Treatment
Summer is quickly approaching!
After a long and cold winter, who doesn’t want to spend time outside? Especially when that means warmer temperatures, longer days and weekends at the cottage!
But with the summer season, comes more time spent in the sun. While the idea of a warm and glowing tan is tempting, the health of your skin should always come first. Especially when considering the risk of sunburn. Which is exactly why it’s so important to protect your skin all summer long!
In this article, we take a closer look at the risk of sunburns and the importance of protecting your skin. Especially in the summertime!
What is Sunburn?
Sunburn is a skin condition that occurs when ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages the outermost layers of the skin. This causes an inflammatory reaction.
Melanin, a pigment that gives skin its colour and protects against the sun's rays, is at the core of the issue. Melanin darkens unprotected, sun-exposed skin to shield it from the sun. The amount of melanin produced is determined by your genetics. While this can result in either a sunburn or tan for some people, cellular damage is inevitable.
For individuals with less melanin, prolonged unprotected sun exposure can cause sunburn, which can range from mild to blistering. Pending the severity of your sunburn, you may either be able to treat it at home or medical attention could be required.
After sunburn, the skin may begin to peel as the body attempts to remove damaged cells. Do not try to peel the skin yourself; allow it to come off on its own.
Fast Facts About Sunburn
Sunburn is a common problem that affects people of all skin types. However, those with fair skin are more at risk.
Even if you don't burn, exposure to the sun's harmful UV radiation can cause cellular damage, which can lead to skin cancer.
The intensity of the sun varies by season, time of day, and location, which is why the UV index is an important factor to consider. Even on an overcast day, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds.
It's important to remember that every burn, no matter how mild, is a sign of skin injury that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer.
You need to protect your skin every day of the year, and be especially cautious during peak sun hours. Peak sun hours are from 11 AM until 3 PM.
With the right knowledge, approach and protection, you can greatly reduce your risk of sunburn and enhance the health of your skin, long-term.
What Are the Risks of Sunburn?
While sunburn can affect the appearance of your skin, it can also increase your risk of skin cancer. There really is no upside to a sunburn, as not only can they affect both your health and the appearance of your skin, but they are also painful and uncomfortable.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the risks of sunburn:
Sunburns raise your risk of developing skin cancer, especially for fair-skinned individuals with genetic predisposition. Repeated sunburns can damage the skin, and the UV rays can alter tumor-suppressing genes, leading to cancer.
People who spend a lot of time outdoors for work or sports have a greater risk of frequent sunburns that can result in skin cancer.
Even one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence more than doubles the chances of developing melanoma later in life.
Skin damage builds up over time, starting from the first sunburn. The more you burn, the greater your risk of skin cancer. Subsequent UV damage can occur even without an obvious burn.
Having five or more sunburns more than doubles the risk of developing potentially deadly melanoma.
To reduce the risk of skin cancer, it's essential to practice sun safety every day of the year.
How Can I Prevent a Sunburn?
When it comes to protecting the health and appearance of your skin from sunburn, prevention is key. Luckily for you, the right approach to sunburn prevention can greatly reduce your risk!
Stay Out of the Sun
The most effective approach to sunburn prevention? By staying out of the sun altogether!
When outdoors, we suggest staying in the shade. Whether the shade is from a tree, gazebo, umbrella, or structure, this can help to not only protect your skin from the sun, but also reduce your risk of heat-related illness.
On days where the UV index is high, it’s especially important to spend time indoors.
Use Sunscreen
While staying out of the sun is certainly effective, it isn’t always possible or the most ideal. You will want to spend time in the sunshine, which is where the use of sunscreen can really come in handy!
For the best protection, a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 but no higher than 50 is recommended. There are also facial sunscreen options for daily use and for days when you will be out in the sun for longer periods of time.
When applying sunscreen, don’t forget areas like your ears, hairline, hands and the tops of your feet. These areas are often forgotten, but just as important!
Wear Long Sleeves
Wearing a shirt with long sleeves or bottoms with long pants can also help to shield your skin from the sun. Be sure to choose a loose-fitting option, so that you can stay cool and comfortable.
Why not complete your outfit with a hat and sunglasses? Not only will these accessories elevate your look, but they will also provide you with added protection!
Avoid Peak Sun Hours
During peak hours, the sun is much stronger. This can result in a higher risk of sunburn, along with certain heat-related illnesses.
We suggest staying out of the sun or staying indoors between the hours of 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM in the summertime.
How will you reduce your risk of sunburn?
Treating Your Sunburn
If you do suffer a sunburn, knowing how to treat it is imperative. Time is of the essence, and the sooner you tend to your sunburn, the sooner you will begin to feel better.
Move into the shade or go indoors right away. The sooner you can get out of the sun, the better.
Apply an anti-inflammatory steroid cream to the skin. You may also seek relief from NSAIDS like Advil or Motrin.
Do a vinegar and water soak to reduce heat and inflammation. You can use Spray Hale Derma + DMK Beta Gel, which helps to promote immediate healing. DMK hydration masks and Coola Recovery Lotions can also help to prevent peeling and hydrate the area affected.
Avoid future exposure to the sun and dress in loose-fitting, breathable clothing with longer sleeves.
Drink plenty of water to help your body stay hydrated.
Over the next couple of days, taking cool showers or using a cool compress may help to relieve pain and discomfort. If you choose to use a lotion, ensure that it is water-based, as an oil-based option can trap heat.
Based on the severity and duration of your sunburn, you may need to seek medical care from a physician. If you begin to develop blisters, feel light headed or have a fever, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Prioritize Your Skin With Bare Ur Beauty
With the right knowledge, approach and professional care, you can make your skin a top priority. At Bare Ur Beauty, we have a team of dedicated experts who can help you elevate both the health and appearance of your skin.
We’re proud to offer a wide variety of services and treatments, including:
For more information, take a look at the other articles in our blog or contact our medical spa today to get started!
