20 Beachwood Buzz June 2016
Dr. Elma Baron
"Remember, a tan is
just another word for
damaged skin that leads
to sagging, splotching,
wrinkles and premature
aging. And, cumulative
exposure to the sun can
lead to skin cancer."
Beat the Heat This Summer
Summer is finally here! The living is easy and everyone wants to be outside enjoying
the fresh air and sunshine. Long, warm days offer the perfect setting for picnics, camping,
swimming and family barbeques. However, just as cold weather can pose certain threats to
our health, so can the hot and humid conditions of an Ohio summer.
"It is important to keep in mind that intense heat is most dangerous for the very young,
elderly, obese and chronically ill; therefore, extra precautions should be taken by individuals
who fit into those categories." says Elma Baron, MD, Director of Lasers and Photomedicine in
University Hospitals Department of Dermatology.
For most of us, Dr. Baron recommends following these simple tips which can help us to
enjoy a safe and happy summer.
· Wear lightweight, light colored clothing
· Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, protective clothing and sunscreen when in the sun
· Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages. Dehydration can be a
serious and potentially life-threatening problem so keep those water bottles handy
· Avoid outdoor exertion and sun exposure between 11 am and 3 pm, the hottest time of the
day with the highest UV rays. A simple way to remember is: Short Shadow = Seek Shade
· Whenever possible, seek out air conditioned surroundings when the temperature really soars
"Perhaps the most important safety tip for summer is to protect yourself against the
cancer-causing and skin-aging effects of the sun." states Baron. "Your first line of protection is
clothing so backlight your hat and clothing to test for sunlight "leakage" and look for clothing
lines that come with built-in sun protection. Pick a sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection
and an SPF of 30 or more and use it liberally and often."
Sunburn, which has been termed a "precancerous glow," can be a serious condition,
sometimes leading to severe pain, redness and even blistering. In such cases, you should
always seek medical attention. For milder cases, aloe vera gel, ice packs, nonprescription pain
relievers and hydrocortisone cream may provide relief. However, prevention is always the
better choice.
Remember, a tan is just another word for damaged skin that leads to sagging, splotching,
wrinkles and premature aging. And, cumulative exposure to the sun can lead to skin cancer.
Artificial tanning beds and lamps are just as dangerous as natural sunlight. In fact, their
prolonged use can double your risk of skin cancer. Check your skin regularly and, if you
discover new spots or raised marks, see your doctor or dermatologist immediately.
Dr. Baron sees patients in Beachwood at Two Chagrin Highlands in suite 125. To make
an appointment with her or to get a list of University Hospitals physicians in the area call
1-866-UH4-CARE (1-866-844-2273). If you need immediate care, visit one of our Urgent Care
Centers or Emergency Rooms. Always call 9-1-1 in an emergency situation.