Things to look out for
MARQUETTE -- Sunshine and warmer weather has Upper Michigan residents hitting the beaches early this year. But as you head outside into the sun, you need to protect yourself.
Beach season got off to an early start this year, so that means it's already prime season for sunburns. While one sunburn will not do much damage to the skin, repeated burning can have dire consequences in the long run.
"I see many people in their 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, who have always been sun burners and they're paying for it. From saving sun damage, we get these little scaly spots that just sort of linger there and then they get bigger and thicker and some become a cancer," explains dermatologist, Dr. Milton Soderberg.
The most effective protection is simple: just don't expose your skin to the sun. The sun, however, is kind of everywhere. But those who spend a lot of time outside have an easy answer.
"Usually I wear a t-shirt, I have to wear jeans. I usually just try to cover myself up and try not to expose as much skin," says Jen Musser, who works outdoors.
"Long sleeves help, even though you feel hotter. Keep the sun off you, at the end of the day you'll feel cooler," said outdoor laborer, Loren Heikkinen.
If you want to get out on the beach, sun block is the best option. But not just any sun block will do according to Soderberg.
"The calibration should be at least a 15 or more is okay; 25 or more, it should mean that you could stay out 15 times longer than you could otherwise before you sunburn," Soderberg said.
Ideally, you want to use a combination of clothing and sun block to combat burns. But if a burn does happen, there are simple ways to take the edge off any pain.
"Take aspirin. Aspirin does help a little bit--taking a couple aspirin like you would for a headache--and you can also use aloe vera; that's been around forever," Soderberg suggested.
Bottom line when heading out this summer, have fun, but stay protected. Your skin and health will thank you later.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWLUC