With summer around the corner, many of us will be taking vacations, some to tropical and sunny destinations. After a long winter, we naturally crave the warm soothing feel of the sun, the healthy skin glow and relaxed fresh look from being under the sun. However, there are also problems associated with direct sun exposure, such as skin and eye burns and hypersensitivity reactions. Sun exposure over a period of years may lead to premature aging of the skin and increased risk of skin cancers. There are steps that travelers can take to reduce these risks.

Steps to reduce the risks of sun damage:

+ Always use sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Effective sunscreens should have an SPF of at least 15.

+ Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before you go outside. Travelers are advised to use water-resistant products.

+ Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating to maintain good protection.

+ Children may require special sunscreen types. Consult your health care provider on the appropriate sunscreen option for your children.

+ Be conscious that dark clothing with a tight weave is more protective from sunburn than light-colored, loosely woven clothing.

+ Travelers should wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect the eyes from excessive sun exposure.

+ Many drugs increase sensitivity to sunlight and the risk of getting sunburn. Consult your health care professional regarding medications you are taking and necessary precautions prior to your trip.

+ Travelers with sunburns should avoid further sun exposure until the symptoms are resolved.

A few facts about skincare and the sun:

+ Ultraviolet light in sunlight causes skin to burn.

+ SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It implies the sunscreens ability to protect the skin from the sun’s burning effect.

+ The higher the number of the SPF, the longer your skin is protected from burning.

+ Depending on the severity, the symptoms of sunburn may range, including red skin, skin swelling and blisters, headache, fever, nausea, and fatigue.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) to learn more about sunburns.