SUNBURN TIPS
Are some people more likely to burn?
Yes. The most susceptible are people who are fair-skinned, tan poorly, have red or blonde hair, or are blue-eyed.

Should I use a sunblock?
Yes. There is evidence that sunblocks help prevent skin cancer and sunburn, and retard the aging effects of the sun. Get a sunblock with the highest number, preferably 15 or greater, if you are more likely to burn.

Sunblocks should be applied at least once an hour while you’re in the sun, and more often if you are perspiring or swimming. Use a sunblock with a higher protection factor on the following areas that need extra protection: the tip of the nose, ears, collarbone, top of the feet and shoulders. On your lips, use only those products designed for that use. Keep all sunblock and sun medications away from the eyes. The sun is most damaging between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Can medications add to sun sensitivity?
Yes. Some examples are as follows: Tetracycline, diuretics, and major tranquilizers (such as Thorazine or Stelazine). They have the potential to cause a bad burn from an amount of sun that would not ordinarily be harmful.

What should I do about a bad burn?
Take a cool bath, not ice cold, and don’t use bath salts, oil or bubble bath. Take it easy on your skin—no scrubbing, no shaving. Use a soft towel and pat the skin dry. Try a sunburn remedy or first-aid spray, one with lidocaine or benzocaine (quick pain relief). Use a light moisturizer and a dusting of powder (eases chafing). Note: Stay out of the sun, and if the sunburn is severe or if you blister, feel faint or nauseous, see a doctor immediately.

KIDS’ CORNER
Since 80 percent of skin damage occurs in the first 20 years of life, it’s up to parents to start their children on a lifetime of protective skin care.

Your child and the sun:
Babies under 1 year of age should be kept out of the sun. Use lightweight, light-colored clothing, and always cover their head with a hat. Use a sunscreen with a protection factor of 15 for best results. Apply liberally and often. Don’t use a sunblock with a protection factor of more than 4 on babies under 6 months. There is a possibility that the skin may absorb the chemical, and the child’s system may not eliminate it.

What to do about jellyfish:
While jellyfish look beautiful and harmless, their tentacles are an entirely different situation. The tentacles are long, spindly appendages that hang from the underside of the jellyfish. When they come in contact with the skin, the result is a red welt and severe pain. Gently wash the area with a mild soap and water, then apply liberal amounts of meat tenderizer (MSG, Accent) to the still-wet area. Benadryl will help lessen the reaction. If the reaction worsens, see a physician.