KIDS HEALTH: SUN BURN SEASON IS HERE!

What is a Sunburn?

A sunburn is caused from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation that penetrates the earth's atmosphere. Spending time outdoors in the sun with exposed skin will lead to a sunburn. Reflected sunlight from sand, water or snow is as strong as direct sunlight.

How do you prevent Sunburn?

The best way to prevent a sunburn is to limit your time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Take a look at your shadow. If your shadow is shorter than your height, stay out of the sun.

What is sunscreen and SPF? If you are going to be outdoors sunscreen is highly recommended. Sunscreen protects your skin from sunburn and premature aging or wrinkles. SPF describes the allowable time of sun exposure before your particular skin type burns. For example, SPF8 means that you can expose yourself to the sun eight times longer without burning. Sunscreen of at least SPF15 is recommended for to prevent sunburn.

How do you treat Sunburn?

At home care will help many of the symptoms of sunburn, but overexposure to the sun may damage your skin.

Some Sunburn relief tips:

• Take a cool bath, not ice cold, but cool.
• Do not scrub your skin. Use a soft towel and pat your skin.
• Use a sunburn cream containing aloe vera.
• Stay out of the sun.
• If the sunburn is severe or you see blisters, see a doctor immediately.

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