Most of us look forward to beach days, backyard BBQs, and soaking up the sun when summer comes around. As outdoor activities increase, understanding the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation has become essential for maintaining the health of your skin this summer. Each year, July is observed as UV Safety Awareness Month, which serves as a reminder of the harmful effects of sun exposure and the importance of skin protection. This makes the perfect time to talk about how you and your loved ones can protect yourself from and heal from a sunburn.

The sun gives off UV rays that can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, and other serious health risks like skin cancer. Whether taking a walk, running errands, or lounging at the pool, UV rays are always present, even on cloudy days. That’s why making sun protection products a part of your everyday routine is essential.

Ways to Stay Safe in the Sun

It is impossible to avoid the sun entirely to protect your skin, however including a few habits in your day-to-day routine can help limit UV exposure. If you’re planning to spend your day outdoors, include these habits in your daily routine:

• Apply sunscreen every day. It is best to choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours. For those who wear makeup, there are sunscreen powders, sprays, and sticks designed to be applied over makeup.
• Wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Stay in the shade when the sun is strongest, usually between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Use the UV index to plan. You Can check it online or through most weather apps to see how strong the rays will be during the day.

What to Do if You Get Sunburned

Sunburn can happen to even those of us who are really careful, so if you do get sunburned, don’t be alarmed; there are ways for you to heal. If your skin gets red, sore, or starts to peel, here’s how to help it heal:

• Cool down with a cold compress or a cool (not hot) shower.
• Moisturize with aloe vera or a gentle lotion to keep your skin hydrated.
• Drink lots of water to help your body recover.
• Avoid the sun until your skin fully heals.
• Don’t pop blisters, and if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or develop a fever, contact your doctor or seek emergency help.

Sunburn is more than just a temporary discomfort; it’s a sign that your skin has been damaged. However, with proper care and protection, you can enjoy the outdoors without risking your skin health.

At AFSPA, we’re here to help you take care of yourself, including your skin. Whether you’re traveling abroad or enjoying the summer at home, take a few extra minutes each day to protect your skin from UV damage.

How AFSPA Can Help

Telehealth Services through Teledoc Health and vHealth (Worldwide)

For Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FBSP) members living in the 50 U.S., Teladoc Health can be used any time, day or night. It’s perfect when your doctor’s office is closed, you’re too sick or busy to see someone in person, or even when traveling. Telehealth consultations are available for dermatologists’ visits through our telemedicine vendor, Teladoc Health.

You can contact Teladoc Health by phone, web, or through the Aetna Health mobile app and receive treatment for non-emergency medical needs within minutes.  For more information regarding telehealth consultations, please call 1-855-Teladoc (855-835-2362) or visit teladoc.com.

For FSBP members with an overseas address or traveling abroad, telehealth consultations are available for general medicine through vHealth (Worldwide). To register for vHealth, download vHealth in the App Store or Google Play or visit https://vhealth-teladochealth.com/en. Create an account if you are using the service for the first time. Your access code is FSBP. Or call 857-256-3784 (US) or +44 (0) 20 3499 2851 (UK) for information regarding telehealth consultations through vHealth (Worldwide).