After Sun Care

Sunny, hot summer days are perfect for spending time at the beach, pool or an outdoor gathering with friends and family, but the exposure to the sun can often lead to unintended sunburns. Sunburns can result in red, sore, itchy skin, blistering, and even nausea from overexposure. These symptoms can be uncomfortable short term but can also cause DNA damage and skin injury in the long term as well.

If you get sunburned, it is important to take immediate care of your skin to prevent further damage:

  • Get out of the sun, preferably to a cooler indoor environment
  • Cool down your skin with ice or a cool bath
  • Protect and moisturize your skin with non-irritating ointments like Vaseline
  • Hydrate your body from the inside out as well by drinking plenty of water
  • If you develop blisters (second-degree burns), allow them to heal without touching or popping them

To prevent sun damage, regular use of a water resistant, SPF 30 broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. Avoiding the peak UV hours of 10am to 2pm, protective clothing, hats, and shade are also important when staying outdoors, especially for younger children.

If you do develop painful blistering sunburns, or suspect skin cancer, seek professional help from an experienced skin care specialist. Dr. Juan Vaillant of Old Bridge Dermatology is a board-certified skin, hair, and nail specialist who has been treating patients for over 30 years in Old Bridge, NJ. From skin problems like acne, psoriasis, eczema, and skin cancer, to hair and nail issues like hair loss, dandruff, and nail fungus, Dr. Vaillant is dedicated to improving the overall health of each of his patients. To schedule an appointment, please call (732) 679-0222 today!