At Stockton Dermatology, we encourage all patients young and old to protect their skin from the sun by using a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day. However, because of the harsh Phoenix, AZ sun, many patients mistakenly get a sunburn. Dr. Toni C. Stockton and her team believe in providing patients with care solutions when sunburn occurs. Whether you have a mild sunburn or a severe burn, we can offer some recommendations for care before visiting our practice for assistance.
Sunburn Types
- Mild sunburn – for mild sunburn, most patients notice some redness and might feel a warming sensation on the skin. We recommend applying aloe vera gel or a lotion that has aloe vera integrated into it. Aloe vera calms the burn and helps stimulate faster healing of the skin following mild sunburn.
- Moderate sunburn – for moderate sunburn, patients may be uncomfortable in their own skin. Aloe vera can be used to soothe the skin, and patients can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling. It is important for patients to speak to their primary care physician before taking medications such as NSAIDs to ensure they do not interfere with other prescriptions being used simultaneously.
- Severe sunburn – with extreme sunburn, patients may be risking permanent scarring of the skin if they do not handle the condition carefully. Patients should avoid any extra sun exposure until their skin has fully healed. Skin that is blistering should be left alone. The application of hydrocortisone should be considered to keep the skin from feeling raw and painful. In some cases of severe sunburn, a visit to the dermatologist may be required. Our team can educate patients on how to care for their skin during this time to significantly reduce the risk of permanent scarring.
Call Stockton Dermatology today!
If you live in the area of Phoenix, AZ and want to seek treatment for severe sunburn, we invite you to book an appointment at our practice located at 16611 South 40th Street, Suite #100. Dr. Toni C. Stockton and her team can assist when patients call (480) 610-6366.
