Ask The Doc | Sunburn & Sunscreen Questions & Answers

Sun protection

The sun is shinning and the weather is amazing, a perfect day outside is on the cards. The summer season is made to enjoy the beaches of Hermanus like Grotto, Voelklip and Onrus Beach. It is also the time of the year where the sun beats down angrily causing painful sunburn. Let’s face it there is nothing worse then being sunburnt and having to stand under a shower.

There are however ways to prevent sunburn and treat it…

Sunscreens

Confusion about what factor should be used and when to reapply are nagging questions most of us have.

What does SPF stand for?

SPF stands for sun protections factor. This refers to the time that you can stay in the sun theoretically without getting burnt. A SPF of 15 allows you to stay in the sun 15 times longer than what you could without protection. For example: If your redden in 20 minutes applying a SPF 15 will allow you to stay in the sun for 300 minutes.

Are high SPF’s better for you?

A SPF of at least 30 is highly recommended and no lower. No sunscreen can protect you 100% from the UV rays of the sun.

How much sunscreen do I need for my kids?

A good palm full of sunscreen to cover your child’s body is recommended. A good sun hat is also advisable if they are playing in the shallows or building sandcastles. A swimsuit that covers their backs and shoulders are good a option too.

Do I need to use sunscreen if I have a dark skin?

Yes, every single person should use a sunscreen.

A SPF of 30 and higher is recommended.

Is there such a thing as tanning safely?

No it is not a healthy option to lie in the sun or on a sunbed for that matter. Spray tan is the healthiest option if you want to get an even summer glow. If you are going to lie in the sun use a SPF of 15 and not lower.

If the SPF says waterproof do I need to reapply it after swimming?

Yes, no sunscreen is truly waterproof. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or so regardless of what factor is is and what type of sunscreen it is.

Can you burn on a cloudy day?

Yes, the clouds do not block the sun’s UV rays. UV rays are reflected off snow, concrete, water and sand so you can even get sunburnt sitting in the shade.

Sunscreen

Factors that reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen

Sweating
Humidity
Drying off with a towel
Swimming

Extra precautions

Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm
Wear a broad brimmed hat
Always use sunscreen and remember to reapply it

If you are stepping out into the sun always use a sunscreen!

How to treat a sunburn

Take an over the counter pain killer (NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN!)
Use an anti-inflammatory cream or after sun product that is available at pharmacy’s and shopping centres.
Have a cool bath or shower, do no use any beauty products, soaps or creams.
Apply Aloe Vera to the burned sections of your skin.
Use a cortisone cream
Keep dehydrated
Once it heals apply an unscented cream

When to see the doctor (IMPORTANT)

Feeling dizzy
Rapid breathing or rapid pulse
Nausea, fever or chills
Sever blisters
Your eyes hurt and are sensitive to light
Extreme thirst with no urine output

– See doctors offices in Hermanus

Please note

Keep an eye on your skin. Be aware of any new moles or changes in moles and alert your doctor to those changes. Skin exams should be done once a year after the age of 40.