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By Rikki Schuster
Soaking in the rays is always a highlight of an Outer Banks vacation. This is what you’ve been waiting for Ð the sand, the surf and the heat of the sun. We hope you remembered to pack your sunscreen, the most important aid in protecting your body from the sun’s damaging rays (besides your swimsuit of course). If not, be sure to pick some up at any Outer Banks retailer.
A number of highly effective sunscreens are available in cream, lotion, and non-greasy gel and liquid formulations. Fair complexioned persons should use an SPF (sun protective factor) of at least 15 and preferably 30 to 40.
Many facial moisturizers contain an SPF 15 to 25 sunscreen suitable for daily use. For maximum protection, use a physical barrier agent such as zinc oxide ointment. These should be reapplied after swimming or perspiring. Barrier agents are especially helpful on skin areas that are most susceptible to sunburns, such as the nose, ears, backs of the legs and back of neck.
Protection from ultraviolet light should begin at birth. The best protection is shelter, but protective clothing, avoidance of direct sun exposure during peak hours (noon to 3 p.m.), and the habitual use of sunscreens are important. Estimates are that if fair children were to use such sunscreens regularly, their lifetime incidence of skin cancer might be reduced by 75 percent.
If you do insist on basking in the sun, you should limit your exposure on the first day to five to ten minutes on each side and add five minutes per side each day. With the proper ultraviolet protection, you can enjoy the Outer Banks vacation you deserve in the sand, surf and especially the sun.
Rikki Schuster is a certified physician assistant who has been practicing emergency medicine and urgent care for the past nine years. She is currently practicing with Medical House Calls, treating minor medical illnesses in your home, workplace or vacation cottage. She can be reached by calling (252) 475-2007.
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