Jan 27 2008
Sun Danger
A sunburn is a warning. It tells you that your skin has been burned. Ignore repeated warnings, and you may end up with wrinkles, age spots and skin cancer. Just six cases of sunburn in a lifetime doubles the chances of developing a melanoma.
Limit your time in the sun
Avoid the strongest UV periods between midmorning and midafternoon, and always wear protective clothing and sunglasses in those times. For good protection, wear loose, long-sleeved cotton shirts and hats with at least a 4-inch brim.
Sunglasses should have at least 99 percent protection against both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B sunlight. Wearing sunglasses is particularly important when you’re around water and snow. It’s possible in these conditions to sustain a painful burn to the cornea, the outer layer of your eye, causing temporary blindness
Use sunscreen
Most moisturising and make-up products contain non-greasy sunscreens with a sun protective factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. If you don’t wear cosmetics, get yourself a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 and apply it 15 minutes before you go in the sun Don’t forget to put some on your lips.
Slop on more sunscreen after swimming and, if you’re in intense sunlight, use a total sunblock like zinc oxide on your lips, nose and ears.
Medications
Seek medical advice about any medications you take. Some medications can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Some common medications which can cause problems are thiazide and other diuretics, tetracycline and sulfa antibioticsand nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen.
If you are burnt
If you get sunburnt, treat it like any other burn. Use cold running water and cold compresses for relief, and stay well away from the sun until the burn heals. If pain persists, consult a healthcare professional. Be sunsmart to be sunsafe. Please. Take a tip from the locals, don’t rush to get a tan. Spend a few early mornings in the sun, you’ll be brown before you know it. Remember to Slip Slop Slap. Slip on a Shirt, Slop on the sunscreen and Slap on a hat.
Like to shout me a cold beer?
