USE OF SUNSCREEN: Sun block or sunscreen prevents a person from the harmful effects of solar radiations especially from UVA and UVB rays. SPF or sun protection factor is the ability of the sunscreen to protect against the harmful effects of UVB radiation only. UVA radiations cause the pigmentary conditions and hence a sun block without UVA protection will not be effective against pigmentation. Also sunscreens come as gels and lotions. People with oily skin or those with acne should avoid lotions as they will worsen the condition. Ideally, a sunscreen in good amount should be applied 30 minutes going out in sun and acts for a maximum of two hours. Cricket bowlers are seen with thick coating of sunscreen on their face while playing to protect them from the harmful effect of sun which is most common on the butterfly area of the face.
ACNE: Acnes can occur on face, upper chest, shoulders and back. Acnes during these days can be caused due to several factors such as germs accumulated while swimming, allergic reaction to chlorine or too much perspiration. While acnes usually go away shortly, it can lead to minor scratches. Topical clindamycin, benzoic acid and retinoids are the mainstay of acne treatment. In cases of pustular lesions, oral antibiotics should be prescribed. Oily creams and lotions should be avoided in people prone to acnes. A good soap can help address acnes while keeping the skin moisturized too. Apply anti-bacterial ointment afterwards to help get rid of itch-causing germs. Isotretinoin with due consent , precautions and counseling should be considered in patients with extensive and recurrent acnes.
Basic Tips for Glowing SkinAvoid going out in sun between 12 pm and 3 pm when the sun is at its peek. Drink lots of fluid and eat fruits with high water content. Wear light Coloured, soothing cotton clothes. Apply a good sunscreen as per your skin. Use an umbrella or a scarf to avoid direct sun rays because physical protection is the best. Calamine lotion is soothing and can be used in mild cases of irritation because of sun. in case of a disease excessive itching or pigmentation, one should consult a dermatologist as soon as possible. Prevention is better than cure, so if a person can avoid sun exposure or use a sunscreen to protect yourself is the best option.