As soon as temperatures rise, life increasingly takes place outdoors on the boat. But beware: even mild solar radiation can lead to a painful sunburn. The right sun protection not only prevents unsightly redness, but also lowers the risk of skin cancer and prevents skin aging.
The time has finally come again: temperatures are rising, boats in local waters have been slipped or craned back into the water. Many are happy that the sun is finally showing its face more often. But especially when the skin is still wintry pale in early summer, a nasty surprise can wait in the evening: a bad sunburn.
“UV rays are responsible for the painful redness, itching or even blisters,” says Solveig Haw, health expert at DKV. “Symptoms usually appear three to five hours after sunbathing and generally subside after three days – depending on the severity of the sunburn.”
While the typical symptoms of a first-degree sunburn are milder, those of second-degree burns are much more distinct and painful. Additionally, pigment or texture damage can occur, and the skin usually peels after about a week.
In the case of a third-degree burn, deeper layers of skin are affected, so that scars can remain. “In the event of a severe sunburn with headache, fever, nausea and vomiting, those affected should definitely consult a doctor,” warns the DKV expert.
White skin cancer is on the rise
Enjoying the sun and a fresh breeze on the boat is good for the soul and body – but during long periods outdoors, only with sunscreen. This applies especially when, for example, shoulders or the décolleté see the light of the sun for the first time again. Otherwise, the skin suffers and the risk of skin cancer increases.
“White skin cancer in particular is currently on the rise,” says the health expert. “Since the main cause of this variant is UV light, it primarily appears in areas such as the face, décolleté, shoulders, neck, forearms and hands, which are regularly exposed to the sun.” Although white skin cancer occurs much more frequently than black skin cancer, it is at the same time significantly less aggressive and easy to treat if detected early.
Not without my sunscreen
To protect yourself from harmful UV-A and UV-B radiation, sunscreen with a high sun protection factor is the be-all and end-all. Those with fair skin should reach for at least SPF 30. When applying, make sure not to rub the sunscreen into the skin, but to apply it as a thin film 30 minutes before heading out and not to forget any areas of the skin – paying particular attention to the edges near clothing.
Haw also advises reapplying sunscreen regularly during long stays in the sun – ideally every two to three hours.
By the way: Even with sufficient sunscreen, children and seniors in particular should avoid the especially intense midday sun.
Is sunscreen from last year still good?
Many ask themselves at the beginning of the summer months whether they can still use the sunscreen from last year. “Unopened creams have a shelf life of at least 30 months,” says the DKV health expert. Products that have already been opened usually last twelve months according to the manufacturer’s instructions. “However, it is possible that the UV protection has been reduced,” Haw explains. “Because the penetrating oxygen can cause the ingredients to change.”
So, if you want to be sure you are optimally protected, you should buy a new sunscreen. At the latest, when the cream no longer smells good, becomes discolored or the consistency has changed, it should be thrown away.
Double protection is better
In addition to proper creaming, clothing offers the best protection against solar radiation. “Children playing in the sun in particular should definitely wear a T-shirt,” recommends the DKV expert. “Headgear such as a hat or a cap protects against sunburn on the scalp and at the same time against sunstroke.”
This should be a matter of course for sailors and motorboat skippers, but also for paddlers, rowers, surfers and kiters. Important: The eyes also need protection: sunglasses with the “UV-400” label are particularly suitable for this.
Sunburn – When the sunbath was too intense after all
Sometimes the sunburn catches up with you after a long trip with the motorboat or a longer regatta. “Those who feel the first signs should immediately get out of the sun and cool the skin,” says Haw. For example, moist compresses with chilled black tea or water help. It is better to avoid cooling pads and ice cubes, as they can additionally damage the skin due to the extreme cold. Subsequently, those affected should apply cooling after-sun lotions containing ingredients such as panthenol or aloe vera. They should be free of alcohol, fragrances and preservatives.
Ointments with hydrocortisol (on-board pharmacy) can also contribute to the relief of itching. A good home remedy is quark wraps, but only if the sunburn has not caused any open wounds. To supply the skin with moisture, the DKV expert also recommends drinking plenty of fluids.
Source: ERGO Group/Canva.
