Have you ever been on the beach and suddenly experienced a shady overcast out of the blue? When the clouds roll in, you may be wondering if you’re still at risk of getting a sunburn. We all know excessive exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause painful sunburns, but what about on those cloudy days? This blog we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide advice on how to protect your skin from damage this summer.
For same-day sunburn care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst. Our medical team can examine your condition and provide treatment if necessary. Simply walk into the clinic– seven days a week– or schedule your appointment online.
Is It Possible To Get Sunburned On a Cloudy Day?
Yes, it is definitely possible to get sunburned through clouds. The sun’s UV rays can penetrate through the clouds. The amount of UV rays that pass through clouds can vary depending on the cloud’s thickness and dentistry. Thin clouds allow more sunlight to pass through, and up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate. This means that you can still be exposed to a significant amount of UV radiation on a cloudy day, which can cause a sunburn.
It’s important to note that while thicker clouds can provide some blockage from UV radiation, they do not provide complete protection against sunburn. It’s important to continuously take steps to prevent sunburn and protect your skin from any long-term damage.
How To Stay Protected from Sunburns – Even When It’s Cloudy
Now that you’re aware you can get burnt on a cloudy day, it’s crucial to still take sun protection measures. UV radiation can penetrate through clouds and cause skin damage, increasing your risk of skin cancer. On cloudy days, avoid getting sunburned with the following tips:
- Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more
- Wear wide brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Seek shade when the sun is strong
- Check the UV index before heading outside
- Use an umbrella
Signs and Symptoms of Sun Poisoning
Spending time outdoors in strong sun for prolonged periods of time can not only cause skin damage, but increase your risk of sun poisoning. Sun poisoning occurs as a result of excessive sun exposure, lack of protection, and underlying health concerns that may cause photosensitivity. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of sun poisoning so you can be sure to seek medical care if necessary.
Common symptoms of sun poisoning include:
- Itchy, painful rash
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue
- Swelling and inflammation
Visit AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst For Same-Day Care
Preventing sunburn is an important way to support your overall health and wellness throughout the year. Be sure to follow sun protection measures even on cloudy days. If you’re experiencing a severe sunburn or begin developing any sun poisoning symptoms, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst. The clinic is open seven days a week and accepts all walk-in patients. Our providers can recommend the appropriate treatment to relieve symptoms. If you have any additional questions about sunburn care, please contact our office directly at (201) 345-3839.
