Sunburn Treatment and Prevention for the Unseasonably Warm Days
6 min reading time
Even the winter is not immune from unseasonably warm and sunny days. And on those days, when the the sun beats down and the heat blazes, we sometimes forget to take care of our bodies. Winter sun exposure can lead to many issues, like snow blindness and sunburn, which can cause pain and discomfort. If left untreated, sunburn can also lead to skin cancer. This is especially important for avid adventurers who spend a lot of time outdoors. Let's take a closer look at sunburn treatment and prevention for those unseasonably warm days.
Prevention is Key
Prevention is the key to avoiding sunburn. When adventuring outdoors during unseasonably warm and sunny days, one should try to limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours. Additionally, it's crucial to wear protective clothing, such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, and use sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Cooling Down the Sunburn
Sometimes prevention is not enough, and one still ends up with a sunburn. The first step in treating sunburn is to cool down the skin. After sun exposure, a cool bath, shower, or compress can help cool the skin, soothing the affected area. Make sure not to use ice or ice-cold water, as it can further damage the skin. (Similar to how it's crucial not to use hot water to manage frostbite or hypothermia).
Soothing the Burn
To soothe the burn, one can apply aloe vera to the affected area. Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and redness. One can also take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, to help with the pain. These are resources that can often be found in a well-stocked first-aid kit, so be sure you have one with you on your adventures!
Drink More Water
When dealing with sunburn, it is essential to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Sunburn causes dehydration, which can lead to other health problems such as heat exhaustion. Drinking water can help replenish fluids that have been lost due to the sunburn.
Seek Medical Attention
If the sunburn is severe, it is important to seek medical attention. Signs of a severe sunburn include blistering, fever, chills, and nausea. A doctor may prescribe medication to help with the pain or may recommend using an antibiotic cream to prevent infection.
Unseasonably warm days can lead to sunburn, which can be prevented by limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen. If sunburn does occur, cooling down the skin, soothing the burn, and drinking plenty of water can help reduce the pain and discomfort. If the sunburn is severe, seeking medical attention is crucial. With these tips, one can enjoy the great outdoors without the discomfort of sunburn.
ViTAC Solutions
ViTAC stands by the principle of living life with passion and vigor as you chase horizons and embrace the spirit of adventure. While we champion the thrill of the journey, we also know the importance of being prepared for the twists and turns that come our way.
Remember, it's not just about seeking thrills but ensuring we can tackle challenges when they arise—because #SafetyThird doesn't mean forgetting safety, but rather making sure we're living life to the fullest. For those uncharted moments, we've got your back. Discover our first aid kits, expertly curated by U.S. Army Green Berets, ready to serve your adventures.
Dive into the world of preparedness at www.ViTACsolutions.com.
Golden Hour Basics: Why Bleeding Control Comes First
When every second counts, understanding why bleeding control comes first can make the difference between life and death. Learn the basics of emergency response timing...
Essential First Aid Supplies: What They Do and Why They Matter
Not all emergencies are created equal—but with the right supplies, you're more prepared for all of them. Here's a plain-language breakdown of common first aid...
Founded by U.S. Army Veterans, ViTAC Solutions delivers professional-grade tactical aid products designed for the unique needs of law enforcement and tactical professionals.
With over 40 years of combined Special Operations experience, our mission is to ensure every professional is prepared to respond effectively, in any situation, at the point of traumatic injury.
