Sunburns are a common condition that one in three people suffer from every year. Sometimes, this problem is mild and affects people’s routines very little. However, it can lead to significant discomfort for some, especially if they have fair skin. Sunburns have also been associated with a higher risk of skin cancer, so they should be avoided at all costs.

With that in mind, we can’t spend all of the time indoors, regardless of how much we may want to sometimes. As part of society, we need to work our way around harmful UV rays. Dr. Ariel Ostad can teach you about sunburns and how to protect yourself against them!

How Do Sunburns Happen?

Sunburns happen when the skin is exposed to more UV radiation than it can handle. The melanin content in the skin protects the skin and absorbs the radiation, resulting in a tan. However, when there is a higher level of UV rays, the surrounding cells get more damage than the average tan. 

As the skin cells die off and the body tries to protect itself, this can lead to inflammation, swelling, and redness. The body can flush out the damage from a mild sunburn within a few days, but severe reactions could need medical attention. For this reason, it is essential to protect yourself.

Tips to Avoid Sunburns

Nowadays, there are plenty of ways for you to avoid sunburns. The most effective ways include the following:

1. Wear Broad-Spectrum SPF

Sunblock creates a barrier between your skin layers and harmful UV rays. Make sure to use broad-spectrum SPF to protect the skin from early aging and prevent sunburns as well. Apply it generously on all the visible areas of your body. If you are concerned about covering blemishes, Dr. Ostad’s Sun Shade tinted option can offer added protection while letting you forego foundation. 

2. Avoid Peak Hours or Seek Shade

Aside from wearing sunblock, the best way to protect yourself is to avoid sun exposure altogether. As UV rays become more damaging once they pass level 2 on the index, you should stay away from direct sunlight during midday hours. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., it’s recommended to avoid being outside or at least seek shaded areas. Wear protective clothing if you can’t avoid getting out in the sun. 

3. Strengthen the Collagen Production

UV rays damage the collagen bonds each time you step outside in the sun unprotected. The thinner your skin, the higher the chance that you will develop a sunburn. Procedures like the Fraxel® CO2 treatment can improve collagen production and strengthen the skin, decreasing your susceptibility to skin damage. Even if the sun does make its way to your skin, your epidermis and dermis should be strong enough to protect themselves.

4. Hydrate the Skin

A hydrated skin is more resilient to damage coming from the sun, as there are fewer dead and dry cells on the surface. Products like Dr. Ostad’s lightweight moisturizer can help provide the skin with the moisture it requires, protecting you from further damage. Depending on the temperature levels outside, you may need to apply the moisturizer more than one time during the day.

5. Get a Skin Resurfacing Treatment

As we have already established, sunburns can increase the amount of pigment in your skin (even if we merely call it a “tan”). These pigments are exactly the parts that soak up UV rays in an attempt to protect your skin. The problem is that the more damage there is to the skin, the higher the chance of getting a second sunburn. The phenomenon is called “memory response,” and the skin will try to react. To protect yourself, skin resurfacing procedures like chemical peels can help reduce the amount of pigment.

Enjoy Your Sunburn-Free Summer!

Sunburns are not only uncomfortable but can also prove dangerous if they reach severe levels. For this reason, learning how to protect your skin is crucial. Call Dr. Ariel Ostad and schedule an appointment today to learn how to keep sunburns at bay!

For more information about suncare and how to avoid sunburns this summer, please contact Dr. Ostad at 212-517-7900. He can provide all the details you need from his practice on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. As an alternative, you can fill out the online contact form, and we will get in touch with you shortly!