Dodge the sun to protect your skin from Sunburn

Sunburn is no fun Dr.Vikas Goswami, suggests that if you are going to spend time out-of-the-house on hot summer days, remember that sunscreen is your best friend. But it is likely that most of the times we forget to wear one. And the consequences can be dangerous. So if you think suntan is trendy and plan to soak in the sun anytime soon, ponder over it twice! It may come as a great surprise, but excessive exposure to sun can increase the risk of skin cancer.


Visible signs of Sunburn
  • Blisters
  • Skin inflammation and swelling
  • Allergy
  • Red bumps
  • Rashes
  • Hives
  • Bleeding

What really causes it?
Sunburn are primarily caused by two types of solar radiations─ Ultraviolet A (UV A) and Ultraviolet B (UV B). Excessive exposure of skin to UV rays accelerates melanin production. Melanin acts as a natural sunscreen and is responsible for pigmentation of the skin. More-than-usual absorption of UV light forms a tan as the skin’s defense mechanism against heat.

However, the production of melanin varies from person to person. An insufficient amount of melanin fails to protect the skin, resulting in redness and painful blisters. It attacks the natural immune function of the skin, leading to formation of cancerous skin lesions.In severe conditions, it may also cause sun poising, also known as polymorphic light eruption.

It must also be noted that artificial skin tanning and regular exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet wrath escalate the risks of developing skin cancer, such as Melanoma.

How to prevent it?
It is often said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Being smart in the sun is the easiest way to prevent fatal skin infections and inflammations.
  • Apply sunscreen before leaving the house, always.
  • Use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more.
  • Cover the skin exposed to sun properly.
  • Wear sunglasses and hats while out in the sun.
  • Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated in the sun.

How to soothe sunburnt skin?
  • In case your skin turns red and starts paining, the first thing to remember is DO NOT PANIC. It can be healed.
  • Apply ice packs on the affected areas.
  • Soothe the burn with ac cold, wet towel.
  • Take frequent baths with cold water.
  • Apply aloevera gel or a soothing antiseptic cream
  • Stay indoors.
  • Visit the doctor if the condition of the skin worsens.

Source: Cancer Cross Skin Blog Tips

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