Risk Factors
Does wearing more or less protective gear (sunscreen, hats, long sleeves) increase your risk of getting a sunburn?
Wearing less increases your risk of becoming sunburnt
Where should you apply sunscreen on your body?
On all exposed skin
Would a hot or cold shower be more beneficial when treating a sunburn?
Cold shower
Does sun damage cause wrinkles?
Yes, sunburns are associated with wrinkles
What does SPF mean?
Sun protection factor (SPF) is a number that tells you how well a sunscreen protects the skin from UV light (specifically UVB).
What age group(s) are the most at risk for sunburns?
Babies and children because there skin is more sensitive
What SPF should you use?
30 or greater
Should you go out into the sun after sustaining a bad sunburn?
Nope! stay out of the sun as much as you can to allow your skin to heal
Does mild sunburn put you at risk for skin cancer?
Yes! A sunburn of any degree can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
Can you get a sunburn when it is cloudy?
Yes
Are you at risk of being sunburned when you are around snow, water, or sand and why?
Yes because these surfaces reflect the sun
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes, make sure to check the expiration date before using it
You should call your doctor to see if you need to go to the emergency department or need treatment
What type of cancer are you at risk for when you have repeated sunburns?
Melanoma skin cancer
Can you get a sunburn when you are in the shade?
Yes, the sun can still reflect off of surfaces
Can taking certain medications make the skin more susceptible to the sun’s damaging rays?
Yes there are many prescribed and over the counter meds that can make you more susceptible
How often should you reapply sunscreen?
Every 2-3 hours or after sweating/swimming
Are there any medications that can be used to address any discomfort that you experience with a sunburn?
Yes you can take NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen in order to relieve pain, but you must take them within 24 hrs
Can tanning cause skin cancer?
Yes! Tanning is skin damage.
How long does it take for a sunburn to develop?
3-5 hours after being in the sun
Are you more likely to get a sunburn if you have pale skin/light hair or dark skin/dark hair?
Pale skin/light hair
How far in advance should you apply sunscreen before going outside?
20 minutes
Should you apply any lotions or sprays to your sunburn or just let it heal without any aid?
You can apply lotions that contain sunburn treatment such as aloe or numbing agents
True or false: your eyes are at risk of sunburn
True!
What is the UV index?
UV index predicts the risk of sunburn in your area based on weather conditions that day on a scale of 0-11+