- Piscataway Campus
- Important - Sun Safety
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Spring and Summer Safety
Sun Safety
Sunburn can happen within 15 minutes of being in the sun, but the redness and discomfort may not be noticed for a few hours. Repeated sunburns can lead to skin cancer. Unprotected sun exposure is even more dangerous for kids who have many moles or freckles, very fair skin and hair, or a family history of skin cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
Mild
- skin redness and warmth
- pain
- itchiness
Severe
- skin redness and blistering
- pain and tingling
- swelling
- headache
- nausea
- fever and chills
- dizziness
Prevention
- Minimize exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Apply sunscreen that provides UVB and UVA protection with a SPF of at least 15 - do not use oils.
- Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and 30 minutes after exposure begins, then reapply after been swimming or sweating.
Treatment
- Take a cool but not cold shower or bath or apply cool compresses as often as needed.
- Drink extra fluids for the next few days.
- Ask your parent if you can have pain relieving medications. Be sure to use as directed.
- Use moisturizing creams or aloe gel to provide comfort and reduce the risk of peeling.
Seek medical treatment for any of the following symptoms: blisters or extreme pain, facial swelling from a sunburn, fever or chills after getting sunburned, headache, confusion, or a feeling of faintness, signs of dehydration (increased thirst, dry eyes and mouth, decrease in urine.