Its everyone’s favorite time of year again! One of the best parts about summer is the weather & being outside enjoying the sun. However most of the time we often forget that the sun can actually hurt us if we are not careful. Did you know that the most common form of cancer is melanoma skin cancer? Melanoma is often caused by severe or repeated exposure to sunburn. When you get sunburn once your chances of getting skin cancer triple! We want to make sure everyone has their fun in the sun while protecting themselves!
The suns rays
The sun has 3 forms of UV light. UVA, UVB, UVC. Out of these three only 2 actually, make it to earth’s surface (UVA & UVB). The suns rays are radiation; our skin can withstand a set amount of radiation before it starts to burn. Sunburn is a radiation burn on a cellular level, this is why it should be taken seriously.
How do I know I have sunburn?
If you have a mild case of sunburn your symptoms will include:
- redness on skin
- a slight headache
If you gave a more serve case of sunburn your symptoms will include:
- high pulse
- blacking out
- extreme burn & pain
How to prevent sunburn
Sunblock is the best way to protect yourself from the sun when you will have prolonged exposure. A common misconception on sunblock is, only applying once or every 30 mins. If you are exercising, sweating or swimming you must apply sunblock directly after because it will wash off of your body!
Take these tips with you this summer & stay away from sunburn! If you have any sunburn concerns please come into Centennial Medical today! We treat sunburn!