Watch late-summer sun exposure

As summer comes to an end, everyone is trying to soak up as much sun as they can before fall brings cooler weather and cloudier days. Be forewarned, however, that with the carefree days of summer come some common summer woes that could ruin your fun and relaxation.
One of the worst and most painful summer problems is sunburn. According to Mary Parks Lamb, MD, this problem is extremely common. “Even though most of us are fully aware of the dangers of the sun, sometimes we inadvertently get too much exposure,” said Lamb.
What steps can you take to prevent sunburn? If you do get severe sunburn, what should be done to treat it?
Dr. Lamb suggests some guidelines to consider in order to prevent sunburn:
• Stay out of the sun between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., if possible. If you do have to be outside, try to find a shaded area, sit under an umbrella or wear a hat and protective clothing.
• Use sunscreen. An SPF of at least 30+ is recommended. If swimming, make sure to reapply after leaving the water Don’t forget to protect your lips, too! Wear lip balm with an SPF of at least 30 and make sure you reapply often.
• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on hard-to-reach places (backs of your knees, back of your neck, elbows, back of your ears, and feet). Recruit a friend to help!
• Don’t sunbathe. We know all women want to be bronze goddesses, but sun exposure is damaging to your skin and may cause sunburn the first few times you are exposed. Try self tanners or a spray tan if you do feel the need to have more color, or if you really must get that natural summer tan, make sure to gradually build up your exposure time.
If you do end up with a painful sunburn, for immediate relief, try applying a cool compress or soak in cool water. Aloe vera gel and moisturizing lotion may also help to soothe your skin, although very little evidence supports their effectiveness. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, naprosyn, etc.) can ease pain and inflammation when used within the first 24 hours.
Dr. Lamb also has some specific guidelines on how to treat damaged skin.
“If blisters occur, do not pop them but allow them to rupture on their own. Apply antibiotic ointment to soothe skin and prevent infection once blisters open. Avoid any further sun exposure until your skin has healed,” Lamb said.
She also suggests wearing loose, soft cotton clothing on burned skin. Most sunburns will not scar, although pigment changes can occur, especially if damaged skin is exposed to more sun.
Above all else, try to keep summertime fun to a maximum this year by following sun exposure guidelines and remembering tips about prevention and treatment. Protecting your skin and practicing moderation in enjoying leisure activities that expose you to direct sunlight will keep your skin healthy for years to come!