By: Dr. Riffat Sadiq, CEO of WNY Medical PC, Channel Creator
Summertime is in full swing, and it is critical this time of year to take proper care of your skin. During summer, the sun’s angle in the sky is higher than that which we experience in the winter. The earth’s axis tilt causes the Northern Hemisphere to be angled more directly towards the sun from June to September. The result is more intense solar radiation, which is the reason for needing to take extra care of your skin while outdoors.
Many Buffalonians love the summer months, due to the lack of cold and snow. Sometimes a quick rest in the sun can turn into an hour or two long nap on the beach, resulting in sunburn. If you experience sunburn, the first step is to exercise safety. Leave and temporarily avoid the environment that caused the burn. Common treatments for sunburn include a cold icepack or aloe vera. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers will also help with constricting blood vessels and dehydrating your skin. For more serious burns, hydrocortisone cream can help, too. The most important factor to avoid is further sun exposure. Your body will thank you for it later.
The skin is the body’s largest, most delicate organ. When outside during these intense months, take extra precautions by wearing enough sunscreen and protective clothing. It is also crucial to consider any medication that you take. Common antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines and blood pressure medications can make us more sensitive to heat. If you are on any types of these medications, it is important to consult with your doctor to know what to expect during these hotter months. If you are known to experience heat intolerance, practice precautions to stay cool and drink plenty of water. Again, your body will thank you for it later.
Overall, it is important to take care of our body in every way possible. Stay well hydrated during the summer months and enjoy the outdoors responsibly. If outdoors during peak sun intensity, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, be sure to apply and reapply sunscreen, as needed. Don’t be ashamed of using an umbrella or wearing protective clothing. If you experience too much sunlight, take the precautions mentioned above to properly heal yourself. Stay safe, stay cool, and have a productive summer.