SUNBURN

I. Definition:

Sunburn is the result of not using proper skin protection while sunbathing or even from routine sun exposure. The skin becomes red, tender and swollen. You may have a stinging sensation and blistering may occur. Some people even get a low grade fever. The skin will eventually shed or peel, once the skin underneath has renewed itself.

II. Sun Exposure Side Effects:

• Excessive exposure to sunlight will cause irreversible skin damage.
• People who get sunburn have an increased risk of developing melanoma skin cancer. Each new sun burn increases the risk a little more.
• Melanoma skin cancer is very dangerous because it can spread quickly, affecting the internal organs and result in death.

Older Skin Has DNA Damage

While it is quite common for our cells to sustain some DNA damage over the course of time, our skin cells take the brunt of this damage, since these cells are routinely exposed to solar radiation. In fact, when you get a sunburn, thousands of skin cells have been killed. The cells that survive often have DNA damage. Unfortunately, as we age, our bodies produce less DNA and RNA material, so our cells lose their ability to repair DNA damage—all of which promotes wrinkles, lines, and sagging.

III. Sun Exposure Treatment:

• A medicine called Indocin if taken soon after a sunburn will help reduce the pain, redness and swelling. Indocin is available from your doctor with a prescription.
• Cold creams and moisturizers will help reduce the pain associated with sunburn. Vitamin C cream applied to the skin will help decrease the severity of a sunburn.
• Sun damage is permanent and irreversible. You should put on sun-screen or moisturizer with an SPF of 15 or higher everyday before leaving the house. Don't go overboard and try to avoid the sun completely.
• Sun exposure and sunbathing produce gradual skin damage even if sunburn is avoided. Ten to forty years can pass between the time of sun exposure and the time the skin shows signs of sun damage.

Use sunblock!

Use sunblock! It is important to mention sun block. All types of skin need to be treated. There is a tendency for people with darker skin to mistakenly believe that they are protected from the harmful rays of the sun. While it might be true that they get less skin cancer, there is still a significant percentage that do. With more sun damage and exposure, the risk multiplies. Of course, their increased pigmentation does not offer any protection for the accelerated aging effect the sun has on their skin.

The left picture is a 58 year old American Indian female who spent practically all of her time outdoors. The right picture is a 72 year old Tibetian monk who spent practically all of his time indoors away from the sun. I believe the pictures say it all!

old Tibetian monk who spent practically all of his time indoors away from the sun. I believe the pictures say it all! Sun block is an essential part of an effective skin care regimen.

Don't forget about your lips. Wearing sunglasses also protects your eyes. Both areas should not be forgotten.