SUNBURN
SUNBURNUVA ultraviolet rays contribute to rapid tanning and cause medication reactions and rapid skin ageing. UVB ultraviolet rays are associated with sunburn and skin cancers. UVC ultraviolet rays can cause skin damage similar to that caused by UVB.
Sunburn, redness with occasional skin blistering, is a first-degree burn which can occur over ½ to 6 hours depending on the nature of the rays, altitude, the time of day, location on the globe, and other considerations. Cloud layers only filter out a part of the sun's ultraviolet radiation. Snow and white sand are powerful relectors of ultraviolet rays. Water is a poor reflector, allowing sunlight to penetrate several centimetres of clear water. Wind, humidity and heat amplify the effect of solar radiation. UVB rays are blocked by glass, UVA rays are not.
Certain diseases and the use of certain medications can provoke skin reactions upon exposure to sunlight. This is called photosensitivity, phototoxic reaction, or photo-allergy. It is manifested by the appearance of red plaques, exzema and hives all over the body.
Such a toxic reaction is not to be confused with the itchy red plaques and blisters that are limited only to exposed skin areas that characterizes sunburn. A mild sunburn reaction will subdue rapidly over 2 or 3 days, and its intensity will diminish with repeated sun exposure.
Seasoned travellers exercise the following precautions:
- Observe environmental factors; snow, water, wind, altitude, etc.
- Avoid sun exposure between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Pay particular attention to one's children
- Wear dry, tightly sewn coloured clothing, and a hat.
- Use solar lens sunglasses that confer maximum protection against UVB radiation.
- Apply a good sunscreen, at least SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 15, replacing it after bathing, after heavy sweating, according to recommended time intervals as indicated on the bottle. Babies under 6 months old should not have sunscreen applied.
Bothersome skin reactions can be soothed by applying fresh humid compresses, moisturizing cream and by taking a mild pain-killer such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or an anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen. Avoid creams and ointments containing local anaesthetic.
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