Everyone is at risk for skin cancer, especially so people with light skin color, light hair or eye color, a family history of skin cancer, chronic sun exposure, sunburns early in life and freckles. Sunburns are caused by UV radiation rather than heat. Sunburns destroy skin, which controls the amount of heat our bodies retain or release, holds in fluids, and protects us from infection. Always try to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going outdoors and re-applied every two hours.
If you do find yourself unprotected, over-exposed and suffering from sunburn here are some first aid tips for you:
- Get out of the sun (a Jody Victor suggestion). Staying in the sun after the burn is present will make it worse.
- Look for blisters. Blistering means the skin is completely damaged and complications are likely. If the area with blisters is bigger than one entire arm or the whole abdomen, seek medical attention immediately.
- Look for swelling. Burns of the face and neck can sometimes swell enough to cause difficulty in breathing. Call 911 immediately.
- Look for burns that completely circle the hands or feet which may cause such severe swelling that blood flow is restricted. If hands or feet become numb and tingly, blue, cold or “fall asleep”, call 911 immediately.
- If immediate medical attention is not called for take a cool shower or bath to soothe the pain.
- Apply aloe or another cooling agent (a Jody Victor suggestion). DO NOT apply butter or oil to any burn!
- Apply a cold compress. DO NOT use ice!
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate the pain.
- While the burn is healing, wear loose natural clothing like silks or light cottons. Harsh fabrics will irritate the skin even more. Unnatural fabrics do not breathe and will hold in body heat causing more discomfort.
All the Best!!