Nebraskaland

16 Nebraskaland • July 2025 IN THE FIELD Summer brings heat, sun and outdoor fun, but it also means you're at a higher risk of sunburn and exposing your skin to harmful ultraviolet sun rays. Ultraviolet rays that reach the Earth's surface come in two varieties: ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB). UVA rays make up about 95% of all the rays that reach the Earth's surface. These rays can penetrate deep into skin and even pass through glass. UVA rays can damage the collagen and elastin in your skin, causing wrinkles, sagging and age spots. UVB rays make up only 5% of the rays from the sun and can also cause skin damage. These rays produce tans and sunburns and are largely responsible for skin cancers, such as melanoma, and long-term eye damage. One severe sunburn doubles your chances of developing skin cancer, and the damage becomes permanent. This summer, protect your skin while enjoying time outside. Skin Protection • Hit the shade. Avoid overexposing your skin to the sun without protection, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which is when the sun's rays are at their highest intensity. • Wear clothing and a hat that provides UV protection. • Wear sunglasses. Photokeratitis is an infl ammation of the cornea, which is the clear covering on the front of the eye. Sunglasses with UV protection can help prevent damage to the cornea and other parts of the eye. • Wear sunscreen. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause burning through cloud cover. Choose sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Some people prefer mineral-based sunscreen containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as opposed to chemical formulas. Make sure the sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher and is water/sweat resistant. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Pay attention to areas that are most exposed, such as your face, lips, ears, neck, shoulders, back, knees and the tops of your feet. Be aware of the expiration date on sunscreen. • Use extra caution near water. Water can refl ect the damaging rays of the sun, increasing your chance of sunburn. • Keep infants under six months old in the shade, preferably wearing sun-protective clothing. If this is not possible, use a lotion sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and be sure to wash it off as soon as you are home. • Be aware that certain medications can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. Consult your doctor if you have questions about your medication. Sunburn Relief If you get sunburned, take a cool bath or shower to help relieve the pain. Gently pat your skin dry. Soothe your skin with products containing aloe vera or soy. Calamine lotion, damp washcloths and oatmeal baths can aid in pain relief. Ibuprofen can reduce swelling and pain. Hydrocortisone creams can help treat swelling and irritation. Purchase 1% hydrocortisone over the counter, or a doctor can prescribe a stronger version. Be sure to drink extra water and electrolytes to rehydrate your skin and body — your body will send extra fluids to sunburned areas. Examine your skin often to detect skin cancer as soon as possible. See your doctor right away if you notice any abnormally dark or discolored patches or spots, bleeding, areas of flaking or crusting skin, or changes in the color, size or shape of a mole. In July, UV rays are at the highest in Nebraska, so make sure to protect yourself while having fun in the sun. UV CAREFUL By Julie Geiser Skincare products are endless. For optimal protection, choose sunscreen that has a SPF of 30 or higher and is water/sweat resistant. JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND

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