When it comes to the sun, there are two potential problems: too little and too much.
Dr. William Turner is a physician in the Wound & Skin Management Center at Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada, Mo., and he noted that some time in the sun is a good thing.
“About 15 minutes a day you need to be out in the sun to produce vitamin D,” he said. Increasingly, Dr. Turner has been treating patients for very low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D helps to grow and maintain strong bones and muscles. A deficiency can contribute to osteoporosis and a weakened immune system.
But the problem can be easily addressed, since the body naturally produces vitamin D when in direct sunlight. Dr. Turner suggested washing the car, working in the garden or simply sitting on the porch for 15 minutes each day. He said vitamin D deficiency is especially an issue for the elderly.
“It’s important to get out in the sun,” he said, recommending that you wear a T-shirt and shorts so your skin is exposed to sunrays.
Fifteen minutes is safe for most people to be in the sun. But if you’ll be out any longer, protection is essential. Wear a sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30, the American Academy of Dermatology advises. Even on cloudy or hazy days, sunscreen is essential to protect the skin. Reapply every two hours and more often if swimming or sweating a lot.
It’s also important to wear a hat – as this shields the areas of the face, neck and ears that are most exposed to direct rays. Sunglasses protect the delicate skin of the eyes.
If you do get sunburned, a quick response can ease the pain. Dr. Turner said the most common type of sunburn is first degree with red skin and tenderness. A second-degree burn occurs when the skin blisters. Third-degree sunburns are very severe and require medical treatment.
With first-degree sunburn, Dr. Turner said the first step is to get out of the sun and to a cool, dark place.
“Get an over-the-counter steroid cream as soon as you can,” he said. “Put it on two or three times. If you catch it soon enough, you might not have much pain by the next the morning.”
Drink plenty of fluids and make sure you’re hydrated and urinating frequently. Take aspirin, Dr. Turner said. Other pain relievers may treat some symptoms, but aspirin is best to relieve both pain and inflammation.
With attention, you can enjoy the sun this summer without being burned.
Natalie Leeper is the Marketing Assistant for Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada, Mo.
