Sunburns: Avoiding them and treating them

Blistering sunburns don’t just put a damper on your fun in the sun, they also increase your risk of developing skin cancers, including melanoma. All shades of skin are at risk for sunburns, although it is more common in individuals with fair skin and light eye color, so do your best to avoid sunburns by applying a sunscreen to all exposed areas, with 30 SPF or higher every day prior to sun exposure. Avoid spending long periods outdoors during the sunniest time of day, between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.  

When you plan to spend extended time outdoors, slather on sunscreen 20-30 minutes before heading out. Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen that is thicker than your daily-wear product. Make sure you cover all skin that may become exposed to the sun, including your ears and lips. Reapply every 2 hours while out in the sun, and after swimming or sweating. Adding a wide-brimmed hat or parasol to your ensemble can further protect you from a burn. Sun-protective clothing is available and can also increase your protection.

Avoid tanning in the sun or in salons. Instead, opt for a tanning lotion, gel or mist. Be sure to do a test spot before applying it over your entire body.  

If you do get sunburned, go inside, take a cool shower and apply cool washcloths to the burned area. Cooling gels or creams with aloe vera can also help. You can apply hydrocortisone cream to the reddened areas and take ibuprofen (if you are able) to help with inflammation and pain. See a dermatologist if these measures don’t improve your symptoms.

Preventing skin cancer: Schedule your free screening 

You should look at your skin every 3 months in front of a full-length mirror; checking your entire body, including your palms and soles. If you notice any new spots or changes on your skin, inform your dermatologist. Also, visit your dermatologist each year for a professional, full body skin evaluation. A board-certified dermatologist is an expert at evaluating the skin as well as diagnosing and treating skin cancers. The UT Health Cancer Center is holding a free skin screening event Thursday, August 10. Register here for the free screening.

If you do find a spot or mole that looks concerning, call your dermatologist for an appointment. Click here to learn how skin cancer looks, symptoms and treatment.

More summer skin saver tips:

Avoiding acne breakouts

Longer days mean more time for fun under the sun. It also means more sweat, and sweat can contribute to breakouts on your face and body. That's why you should be sure to shower after sweating and always wash your active clothes before wearing them again. You can also consider changing your skin care routine. Use less product overall, and avoid alcohol-based products which could irritate your skin and cause an acne flare-up.

Always wear your sunscreen, but limit everything else you put on your skin. A dermatologist can recommend a healthy skin care routine tailored for your specific skin. Choose products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic. They are less likely to clog your pores.

If you do notice that you're breaking out, wash with a cleanser containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide (be careful, as this ingredient can bleach clothing). If the situation doesn't improve, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist for a more advanced care program.  

Bug bites

Protect yourself from summer’s pests by using bug repellent products like sprays, bands or candles. If you find yourself bitten or stung, apply hydrocortisone cream to the area and take an antihistamine, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra) to help ease the allergic reaction. Benadryl is also helpful, especially before bedtime, because it can make you drowsy. Avoid topical Benadryl creams because it can cause some people, to develop a rash, i.e. contact dermatitis. If bites or stings are very bothersome or become infected, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. If you experience extreme swelling, vision or breathing problems, immediately seek emergency care.

Nail Care

Warmer weather is prime time for showing off those toes. But the sun's UV rays and time spent in water can wreak havoc on your nails. Always keep your toenails dry, clean and trimmed.

Chlorine and saltwater tend to make nails more brittle. If you’re spending a lot of time in the water, be sure to dry your feet quickly and completely. Use cuticle oils and moisturizers to keep your nails hydrated. Keeping your feet dry and wearing sandals or flip flops in wet public areas will also decrease your risk of developing fungal infections like athlete's foot or plantar warts.

Those who wear nail polish should be sure to apply a double base coat as the sun's UV rays can “bake” polish into your nails and cause discoloration. If you enjoy professional manicures or pedicures, consider bringing your own tools and products to avoid fungal or bacterial infections. Also, avoid shaving those areas within 24 hours before and after receiving your service to decrease your risk of infection. If you notice a nail or foot concern, take care of it right away and consult a dermatologist.

Hair Care

The sun’s heat and UV rays can have a major impact on the health of your hair. While some conditions, like dandruff, may get better during these more humid months, other problems can arise.  Folliculitis is a common condition, which can occur on the scalp or the rest of the body, is caused by clogged hair follicles. Its symptoms include red, sensitive or itchy bumps on the skin. Ward it off by wearing light, loose clothing and changing out of sweaty, tight clothing as soon as possible.

During summer, hair can become dry, brittle or discolored due to time spent under the sun and in the water. Reduce the amount of heat and product you use on your hair, with the exception of a daily leave-in conditioner. Stave off damage by wearing a hat while outside and using shampoo to wash your scalp, not the length of your hair. As an added measure, use a moisturizing conditioner every time you wash to help restore moisture. When going for a swim, limit your hair’s exposure to chlorine or salt water by covering it conditioner, wearing a swim cap or wrapping it into a bun.

Rashes

Summer is the ideal time for camping, hiking and even getting some overdue yard work completed. Don't let a pesky rash stop you. Heat rash is caused by blocked sweat glands which won't allow sweat to surface, evaporate and cool the skin. It causes red, sometimes itchy, bumps on the skin. To prevent heat rash, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and try to stay as cool as possible. Work during the coolest parts of the day, with a fan or mister nearby, and cool off with a refreshing shower afterward. 

Other itchy culprits are plant-based rashes caused by poison oak, ivy and sumac. Learn how to identify and avoid these poisonous plants. If you do come into contact, take a cool shower, and wash your clothing as soon as possible. If the rash is mild, you can apply hydrocortisone cream to the affected areas and take an antihistamine to help treat symptoms. If the reaction is more severe, visit your primary care doctor or dermatologist for treatment.

Dry, Itchy Skin

The strong summer sun and time in the water can make your skin dry and itchy. Keep your whole body hydrated by drinking at least 64 ounces of water each day and eating water-rich foods like watermelon, cantaloupe and strawberries.

Keep your skin supple by showering right after you swim using cool or warm water, not hot. Moisturize with a fragrance-free, gentle moisturizer  afterward. It is also a great idea to keep a travel moisturizer handy to touch-up areas on your body that are more prone to drying out. 

These tips provided by board-certified dermatology and dermatopathology specialist, Dr. Adaobi Nwaneshiudu of UT Health Dermatology, For more information or to make an appointment with UT Health, call 210-450-9840.