
A sunburn indicates your skin has received ultraviolet (UV) damage. A tan or redness is a sign that UV radiation from the sun or artificial light from a tanning bed has caused damage to your skin. Treatment is available for sun damaged skin, contact Compassion Dermatology today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.
To prevent damage to your skin, use proper protection with sunscreen and clothing. However, if you are currently experiencing discomfort from sunburn, begin treating it right away. The first step is to get out of the sun, in the shade or preferably indoors. Severe and extremely painful sunburn may require medical treatment. Contact Compassion Dermatology today when you need a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.
The following tips can help relieve the discomfort of a sunburn:
- Cool baths or showers will help relieve the pain of a sunburn. Pat the skin dry and leave a small amount of water on the skin. Apply a moisturizer containing Aloe Vera or soy to trap the water on the skin. This helps to relieve the dryness caused by sunburn, while the moisturizer helps to soothe the injured skin.
- An over-the-counter hydro-cortisone cream can help to soothe those areas that are especially painful. However, never treat a sunburn with products containing the benzocaine or other “-caine” products. These products may worsen irritation or cause an allergic reaction. For severe sunburn, you may want to see your doctor or a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.
- Aspirin or ibuprofen may help reduce swelling, redness and discomfort.
- When a sunburn occurs, fluid is drawn to the skin’s surface and places you at risk for dehydration. Drink extra water to help prevent dehydration.
- Blistering indicates you have a second-degree sunburn. Do not pop the blisters, as they help the skin to heal and provide protection from infection.
- Wear clothing that covers your sunburned skin outdoors. Tightly-woven fabrics provide the highest protection. Consider also, the use of reflective light colors. White clothing provides the highest protection.
Sunburn can cause long-term damage to the skin and increasing your risk of developing skin cancer. Protecting yourself from sunburn also reduces the risk of your developing skin cancer. If you routinely tan or have had sunburn, it is especially important you receive annual exams for skin cancer with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.
Sunscreen
Sunscreens are available in a wide variety of SPFs. Select a sunscreen that is water resistant and has an SPF of at least 30. In addition, it should be suitable for each of your family members. Remember to also take protective measures for sun protection, such as shade and long sleeve shirts.
No sunscreen is able to provide 100 percent protection against UV light from the sun. An SPF of 30 blocks approximately 97 percent of the suns rays. SPFs above 30 provide slightly higher protection, but as previously stated, none are 100 percent effective. Furthermore, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours when outdoors, and after swimming or sweating. If you have questions your dermatologist in Southlake, TX can provide you with the answers you require for you and your family.
Infants and Children
An infants skin is more sensitive than that of adults, and sunscreens should be avoided if possible. Babies under the age of 6 months should not spend time in direct sunlight. Sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium may be used on exposed skin of babies older than 6 months. On family outings, babies should be kept in the shade as much as possible, and should be dressed in long sleeve shirts, a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and pants. These clothing protections are recommended for each member of your family.
Skin cancer is a growing concern for people of all ages, including children. Since sunscreen cannot provide complete protection, seek shade when possible, wear appropriate clothing for protection, and avoid tanning beds. Skin cancer screenings of the skin is important for all persons, but it is especially important for those of the age of 50. Contact a dermatologist in Southlake, TX today to schedule yours.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin
- Use creams for the face and if you experience dry skin.
- Sticks are the best to use around the eyes.
- Gels are the ideal choice for hairy areas such as the scalp or hairy chests.
- The safety and sufficient coverage of sunscreen sprays has not yet been determined by the FDA. Those with balding of the scalp often finds it convenient to use, as do parents of young children. Its difficult to gauge adequate coverage with sprays, and you should not inhale the spray. When applying to the face or scalp, spray the product on your hands to apply and prevent inhalation. Consider wind and its direction when spraying the product to avoid inhalation.
- Apply the product of choice generously, including to hands and feet, in order to ensure you receive the advertised SPF. If your skin is especially sensitive to the suns rays, contact your dermatologist in Southlake, TX today for a recommendation specific to your skin.
The Risks of Tanning
Tanning can lead to skin cancer and premature aging whether from the sun or a tanning bed. Premature aging is the onset of wrinkles and dark spots. As skin cancer victims continue to increase, including children, protecting your skin this summer is important. Consider other options for the sun kissed look you want without the risk. Many lotions and creams appear streaked if not carefully applied. Contact your dermatologist in Southlake, TX for solutions. Compassion Dermatology offers the solutions you need.