Summer is with us now and it is time to take that annual holiday to an exotic location. You want to take in as much sun as possible but what many people seem to forget every year is just how quickly sunburns or sun poisoning can occur. In fact, many seem to think that using sun block, the way they do when they are back home, will help keep their skins from burning. What they fail to understand is that sun north of the equator is much weaker than that in the south and even the best of sun block will not protect them if not used properly.
You will know that you have sunburn when your skin feels like it is literally burning, there are blisters, it turns red, itches and you may even feel nausea. You should not underestimate the power of sun poisoning – it can be debilitating and keep you confined for days. As so as you notice the symptoms you should get out of the sun right away and stay away from it until your skin is completely healed. Here are some of the best ways of treating sun poisoning:
- Use sunscreen liberally and reapply after every few hours. Most people remember to take sunscreen on their trip but forget that it is the reapplying that counts. Choose one that has a high SPF factor and always follow directions. That said, it is important for you to know that products that have a very high SPF contain a lot of chemicals. You should aim for between 15 and 30.
- The best time to take in the sun is before 10 in the morning and after 4 in the afternoon. The sunlight in between those hours is harmful to your skin. This advice is especially important for children and the elderly.
- Keep yourself covered up. True, it is the beach and you want to enjoy it but you want to keep as much of your skin covered as possible. Wear light clothing, such as chiffon, on top of your bathing suits. This is a must for children.
- Don’t aim to get a tan in one or two days – you will get sun poisoning. The best way to get a tan is over time, not all at once. A few hours outdoors every day will get you the results that you want.
- If you notice a sun burn coming on immediately get some aloe gel – it is very gentle and will soothe your skin in no time at all. As much as possible try and get one that is natural, not all loaded with chemicals.
- Wear sun glasses to protect your eyes every time you are outdoors and a wide brimmed hat to protect your shoulders.
- Some people fail to apply sunscreen when they are on holiday on cloudy days – don’t be deceived because UV rays go right through clouds.
These tips should help you avoid sun poisoning on your next holiday. Remember, pay attention to symptoms immediately you star to feel them or your holiday will be ruined.
