Sun Poisoning
Each year I have a number of patients who tell me they get “sun poisoning” each year at the beach. What is “sun poisoning” and how can we prevent it?
Generally, dermatologists don’t use the term “sun poisoning”. Seriously, I do not think the term is in any of my dermatology textbooks. What most people are describing as “sun poisoning” is a severe sunburn which sometimes can be accompanied by a flu like illness. The flu-like symptoms come from the inflammatory response generated by the sunburn. So, if dermatologists don’t diagnose people with sun poisoning, what is the actual diagnosis.
Sunburns can be described in degrees just like other types of burns. First degree sunburn is generally just redness, versus second degree sunburns include blistering. Third degree sunburns are very rare. When the sun damages the skin it can trigger an inflammatory response that is more extreme in sun people than others.
So, to avoid “sun poisoning” we need to avoid sunburn in the first place. Lots of traditional advice here…
TIPS TO AVOID SUNBURN
-Avoid extensive sun exposure between 10am and 4pm.
-Where a zinc-based sunscreen and reapply at least every two hours.
-Pay attention to the water resistance on your sunscreen. Usually a maxi mum of 80 minutes.
-Wear a hat, rash guard and other sun protective clothing.
-Take a supplement containing Polypodium like Heliocare.
TIPS TO TREAT SUNBURN AND “SUN POISONING”
-Avoid continued and repeat exposure to the sun once sunburned.
-Apply clear aloe vera gel.
-Use cool, not cold or ice, compresses to cool the skin.
-Take an anti-inflammatory such as aspirin, ibuprofen or Aleve for 24-48 hours.
The final tip in each list is very important. Taking an anti-inflammatory at the manufacturer’s suggested dosing can reduce the inflammation in the skin triggered by the sunburn. By reducing the inflammation, you can often prevent the “sun poisoning” symptoms.
Polypodium leucotomos extract is a favorite of mine and many of my patients who tend to have adverse reactions to the sun. Heliocare is the brand with the most scientific evidence and the one I use myself. It can greatly reduce sun sensitivity, but it is NOT a substitute for sunscreen. I take one every day that I think I will be getting some significant sun exposure- hiking, running, swimming, gardening, sports events.
If you have a friend or a family member who tends to get “sun poisoning” please share this important information with them.
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