Al Siraj Medical Center's Guide to Sunburn Prevention and Treatment in Qatar

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Let's face it: Sun exposure during summer in Qatar is a serious problem that probably gets talked about less than it should, even though we know the damage that the sun can cause to our skin. 

The consequences of sunburn are worse than you'd think. In fact, getting exposed to too much sun can cause early wrinkling and age spots and increase the likelihood of skin cancer. Yes, skin cancer!

Now that you read that, you might feel a little intimidated. Well, this blog post is to the rescue.

By the end of this post, you'll have a clear strategy for protecting your skin and finding ways to soothe sunburn.

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Who's more likely to sunburn 

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People with certain health conditions are more susceptible to getting sunburned, including these conditions include:

People with skin disease

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Specific skin problems, such as Vitiligo,  alopecia, Albinism, eczema, or rosacea, can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and increase the risk of sunburn.

Photosensitivity disorders

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People with photosensitivity disorders, such as lupus, porphyria, or certain types of dermatitis, have heightened skin sensitivity to sunlight and are more likely to get sunburned.

Fair skin

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Individuals with fair or light skin because they have less melanin, a substance that provides natural protection against UV radiation.

History of sunburn 

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When an individual has a history of sunburn, they have an increased chance of future sunburns, as sun-damaged skin is more susceptible to UV damage.

Young children

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Because infants and young children have delicate skin, they are very likely to sunburn, so extra precautions should be taken to protect them from the sun's harmful rays.

Weak immune system

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People with a weak immune system, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplant recipients, tend to have reduced skin defenses against UV radiation and, ultimately, a higher risk of sunburn.

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What You Need to Know About Sunburns (in Qatar)

Located in the sunbelt region of the world, Qatar is known for its dry and sweltering summers and intense sun rays throughout the year. Thus, it's safe to say that individuals living in Qatar are way more likely to get sunburned. 

Prolonged exposure to the scorching temperatures and relentless sunlight that characterize Qatar can lead to severe skin damage, including sunburn, and for those who don't know, repeated sunburns can exacerbate skin conditions and weaken the skin's natural defenses, making it more prone to further damage from UV radiation.

So what can the residents of Qatar do? Care less about sunburns? Accept that this is reality and learn to live with the consequences? Keep their fingers crossed that they don't need to go out?

Did you think we forgot about you, oh, residents of Qatar? Never! That's where our next section comes in.

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Sunburn - Preventive Measures

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As the saying goes, "prevention is better than cure", we've compiled the best practices for avoiding sun damage during hot times in Qatar. So, the following measures aren't just guidelines. They're the main practices that can prevent sunburns from occurring in the first place.  

Use the right sunscreen

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Make sure to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours, particularly after swimming or sweating. Remember also to cover body areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.

Wear protective clothing

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Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats to cover your exposed skin. Clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is powerful enough to protect you from potential sunburns. 

Seek shade during peak times

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When the sun peaks in Qatar (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), try to stay in the shade and limit outdoor activities as much as possible to reduce or even avoid direct sun exposure. This will prevent any chance of sunburn. 

Keep sunburn solutions within your reach

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Pack soothing products like aloe vera gel and moisturizers with menthol or camphor in your bag, and take them wherever you go. This way, you can relieve your skin right after a sunburn.

Sunburn Treatments, What Al Siraj Dermatologists Have to Say?

We know what you might be thinking: Okay, so I haven't followed the preventive measures and unfortunately got sunburned, so what do I do? Well, that's what Al Siraj skin experts are going to do. Offer you real solutions for sunburn. 

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Apply cool compresses and cold packs

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First, make sure to immediately apply cool compresses or cold packs to the affected areas. This will reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and provide immediate relief from sunburn complications.

Aloe vera gel

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For those out of context, Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory and moisturizing substances, which make it particularly effective for soothing sunburned skin. You're supposed to apply a generous quantity of pure aloe vera gel to the affected areas several times a day.

Stay hydrated

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Okay, let's agree that drinking water isn't going to treat sunburns. That said, staying hydrated will help reduce the severity of symptoms like dehydration and skin peeling, which will speed up the healing process. 

Over-the-Counter pain relief 

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Another efficient option for healing sunburn is applying over-the-counter pain relievers; there are many out there (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, etc.). These pain relievers will relieve the pain and significantly reduce the inflammation you experience while you're sunburned. 

Use moisturizers

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Moisturizers are the go-to option if you want to reduce itching and prevent potential skin dryness. We recommend using moisturizers that contain ceramides or hyaluronic acid, as these two ingredients help repair the skin barrier. 

Practices you should avoid when you get sunburned 

• Avoid further sun exposure to allow the skin to heal properly.
• Wear protective clothing, seek shade, and apply sunscreen with a high SPF to prevent additional damage.
• Avoid activities that may increase skin irritation, such as hot showers, rubbing and scratching the skin, or removing peeling skin.
• Avoid touching or breaking small blisters. 

Sunburn Care Myths

There are very popular sunburn care myths that a lot of people tend to apply, and instead of improving the skin condition, they make the skin damage worse. 

But that's just it – myths and nothing more. So here are some of them: 

• Applying butter to the affected skin area. 
• Using Toothpaste
• Popping blisters
• Using petroleum jelly
• Using ice and ice packs directly  

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Best Place to Treat Sunburn in Qatar 

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Thus, we reach the end of it—the blog post, not sunburn prevention!

We think by now, one thing is clear. Sunburn is a skin condition too serious to ignore, and Al Siraj skincare experts can definitely help you treat this. Simply schedule an appointment with us. 

But we're sure you still have a ton of doubts and questions about sunburns in Qatar. Well, we're here for you! Give us a call at +974 44493666, and we'll get you sorted out.

Thank you for sticking around till the end! 

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Sunburn in Qatar FAQs

• ‍What SPF is best for the face?

The most effective sunscreen for your face is the one you'll apply daily. Opt for an SPF of 30 or higher, as anything lower may not offer sufficient protection. Also, make sure the formula you buy protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

• ‍What's the difference between sunscreen and sunburn?

They are completely different. In simple terms, sunscreen is a product designed to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, while sunburn is the result of overexposure to UV radiation from the sun.

• ‍How many minutes before you go out should you apply sunscreen?

Your skin will, on average, take a half-hour to absorb the sunscreen you applied. So, plan ahead and apply sunscreen approximately 30 minutes before you go outside.

• ‍How to tan without burning?

To avoid tanning without contracting a sunburn, start with short sun exposures, gradually increasing, and never forget to apply SPF 30+ sunscreen. But if you want to play it safe, consider self-tanning products.

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