East End Dermatologist Offers Summer Skin Protection Tips

Sag Harbor, NY; June 29, 2021 – As we enter summer, parents and children need to prepare for exposure to skin hazards while enjoying sunny weather and outdoor activities East End-Based Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Mark Halsey of Halsey Dermatology of Sag Harbor, NY is sharing his knowledge and recommendations for protecting one’s skin from the dangers and damage this summer. A Dermatologist with experience working with both children and adults, Dr. Halsey has tips for skin conditions that frequently occur during summer months:

• Protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful UV (Ultra Violet) radiation:
  • Keep skin covered as much as possible when out in the sun (wear sun blocking clothing and hats)
  • Ultraviolet light (radiation) from the sun causes sunburn and damages skin cells. Ultraviolet light is strongest during the middle part of the day and is less around sunrise and sunset. Watch weather reports to find out the daily UV index and use this to plan outdoor activities. Know when the sun will be strongest and limit activities during these times and make sure skin is protected. The UV index ranges from 1 to 11 and the US Weather Service provides information based on almost every zip code in the country. A UV Index of 8 to 10 is very high and 11 is considered extreme. Skin can be burned within 30 min or less when the UV index is 8 or 9.
  • Use the proper sunscreen; be mindful of the differences between sunscreen, sunblock and suntan lotion. Use a sunscreen or sunblock product labeled with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or above. Sunblock that provides a “broad spectrum” of coverage (protecting against both UVA and UVB rays) offers better protection. “Sun tan lotion” products, since they usually have an SPF of less than 15, are not as effective in terms of sun protection.
  • Reapply sunscreen after swimming, even if the sunscreen is waterproof.
  • Adults and children should use ample amounts of sunscreen to completely cover exposed skin. Use an appropriate amount of sunscreen for protecting the face and neck specifically. Generously spread the sunscreen to all areas of exposed skin.
  • Parents should apply sunscreen thoroughly to cover their children’s exposed skin. The skin of children is very sensitive. Children’s sunscreen should be put on about 15 to 30 minutes before they go outside. Cover children’s ears, hands, feet, shoulders and behind the neck.
  • Apply sun protection each time before venturing outdoors and be prepared to reapply every few hours depending on length of time spent in the sun and product directions.
  • Long-term exposure to the sun creates the risk of skin cancer or other issues. Individuals with lighter skin tones are more susceptible to getting sun burns and sun damage on their skin. People with darker tones are generally at lower risk because skin pigment works as a partial barrier to UV light. However, everyone can benefit from using sunscreen.
  • When sunburn occurs, there are several ways to manage it. Cool baths or showers relieve sunburn pain. Use of moisturizers containing aloe vera or soy also help soothe skin irritations. Ibuprofen reduces swelling, redness and discomfort. When caring for a sunburn, make sure skin, especially the burned area, is covered whenever outdoors. Sunburn can be severe, causing second degree burns and blistering. If pain is severe and the skin is blistered or raw, or if a sunburn also has systemic symptoms seek medical attention.

• Accidental burns from BBQ Grills and firepits:
  • Summer is barbeque season and is a great time to roast marshmallows over a fire pit. However, these activities can lead to burns. A minor first-degree burn will show reddened skin while a second-degree burn is darker red and often accompanied by blisters that don’t penetrate deep into skin layers. In the case of minor burns, apply cold water or ice on the area immediately to reduce swelling and pain. This will also avoid the burn from getting worse. Apply an antibacterial ointment to prevent infection. Afterward, put a sterile pad or bandage loosely over the burn and let any blisters heal on their own. An even more serious burn may involve extensive blistering that will affect deeper layers of the skin and possibly muscles. Severe second- or third-degree burns require immediate medical attention.
    
    
• Irritations and rashes caused by poisonous plants:
  • Poisonous plants such as poison ivy or poison oak can cause an itchy rash as part of an allergic reaction to a plant oil called urushiol. Moisturizers, calamine lotion, hydrocortisone creams and short lukewarm baths are some of the best ways to sooth irritated or inflamed skin. To further prevent itching, cover any rash areas with a bandage, which will also help prevent against bacteria forming. If rashes and itching become severe, seek medical attention. Doctors can provide or prescribe a stronger topical corticosteroid and/or oral medication in severe cases.
  • Watch out for any shrub or plant with “leaves of three” since this is often a sign of poison ivy. Gardening or walking in wooded areas can expose the skin and clothing to these poisonous plants. After potential exposure, remove and wash clothes immediately. Oils may be present on clothing that could later come in contact with the skin directly and it can even be spread onto furniture and other surfaces.

• Blisters from yardwork, outdoor activities, sports, hiking and walking:
  • Blisters are caused by friction on the skin. It is important to wear proper fitted shoes, socks and clothes to prevent blisters.
  • Cover blisters to keep them clean, dry and from getting worse. If pain is severe, swelling occurs or blistered areas look infected then medical attention may be needed.

Summer is a time to enjoy the weather as well as being with friends and family. Protecting the skin is an important part of long-term health and wellbeing. Keep skin health in mind this summer. The skin protection tips provided from Dr. Halsey are intended as a helpful guide for general purposes. Any specific skin concerns should be addressed between patients and their personal doctors. For more information, please contact Dr. Mark Halsey at 631-731-1099 or visit https://www.markhalseymd.com/.

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