Avoid its "edge", tips for dealing with solar dermatitis

Author: Yang Xue Xi'an Baoshihua Changqing Hospital

Reviewer: Wang Mei, Chief Physician, Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University

While enjoying the sun, we also have to be alert to its potential "edge" - solar dermatitis. This term, which sounds a bit professional, is actually one of the skin problems we often encounter in our daily lives. Simply put, it is an allergic reaction caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays. Unlike ordinary sunburn, solar dermatitis may bring more serious consequences, such as itching, blisters, pigmentation, and even skin aging. Therefore, it is particularly important to understand and master some tips for dealing with solar dermatitis.

Sun protection tips: Be prepared and start from daily life

1. Avoid the sun’s “edge”

First of all, prevention is better than cure. Generally speaking, ultraviolet rays are strongest between noon and 4 pm, so you should try to avoid long outdoor activities during this period. If you must go out, try to find a cool place to walk, or use tools such as a parasol to build a "solid line of defense" for your skin.

Figure 1 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

2. Physical sun protection equipment that is fully armed

It is very important to choose the right sun protection equipment. Although it may seem simple, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, long-sleeved clothing and sun-protective pants can significantly reduce the direct damage of ultraviolet rays to the skin. Choosing materials with good sun-blocking properties can achieve better sun protection.

3. High-factor sunscreen, the "guardian" of the skin

Sunscreen is an indispensable step in sun protection. Choosing a sunscreen with a high SPF value and ensuring that it has broad-spectrum sun protection (can block both UVA and UVB) is the key to protecting the skin from UV damage. When applying, apply enough and evenly, and do not miss any part. At the same time, reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating to maintain the sun protection effect.

Figure 2 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

Response strategy: Gentle care to restore skin health

If you're unlucky enough to develop photodermatitis, don't worry. Here are some gentle coping strategies that can help quickly relieve your symptoms and restore healthy skin.

1. Avoid irritation and choose mild skin care products

During the illness, try to avoid using cosmetics and toiletries containing irritating ingredients such as alcohol and fragrance. Choosing mild, non-irritating skin care products can reduce further damage to damaged skin.

2. Cold compress to relieve discomfort

Gently cool the affected area with cold water or an ice pack to quickly lower the skin's surface temperature and relieve redness, swelling and itching. But remember not to rub or squeeze the affected skin hard, as this may aggravate the symptoms.

3. Moderate moisturizing to promote repair

Moisturizing is the key to skin repair. Choose a moisturizing product that suits your skin type to provide your skin with sufficient moisture and nutrition, which will help accelerate the repair process of the skin barrier.

Figure 3 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

4. Seek professional help when necessary

If the symptoms of solar dermatitis are severe or persistent, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time. Under the guidance of a doctor, you can use antihistamines and topical hormones to relieve symptoms. However, be sure to follow the doctor's instructions and avoid self-medication.

Sun protection tips: Make sun protection a part of your life

Don’t be lax about daily sun protection: UV rays are everywhere, regardless of spring, summer, autumn or winter, rain or shine. Therefore, don’t be lax about daily sun protection and make it a necessary step in your skin care routine.

Diet helps protect against the sun: Foods rich in vitamin C and vitamin E, such as citrus fruits and nuts, have antioxidant properties and can help the skin resist UV damage. Eating these foods in moderation can double your sun protection effect.

Conclusion

In this sunny season, let's learn to deal with solar dermatitis gracefully! By taking scientific sun protection measures and gentle skin care methods, we can protect our beautiful skin while enjoying the sun.