Living in the Sun: The Orange County Reality
With year-round sunshine and beautiful beaches like Newport, Laguna, and Huntington Beach, Orange County residents spend a lot of time outdoors. But increased sun exposure brings higher risk for sunburn, a common yet serious skin condition that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer.
At Irvine Dermatology, we specialize in sunburn prevention, treatment, and long-term sun damage care helping you stay safe under the California sun.
What Is Sunburn?
Sunburn is skin inflammation caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The result? Redness, swelling, pain, blistering, and peeling. Even on overcast days, UV rays can damage your skin especially in sunny regions like Orange County.
Why Sunburn Is More Dangerous Than It Seems
Every sunburn damages the DNA in your skin. Over time, this damage accumulates and increases your risk of:
- Melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer)
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Premature aging (wrinkles, sunspots, leathery texture)
- Immune suppression
Did you know? Just one blistering sunburn in childhood doubles your lifetime risk of melanoma.
Who’s Most at Risk in Orange County?
If you live or play in Orange County, you’re at higher risk for sunburn, especially if you:
- Have fair or sensitive skin
- Spend time outdoors between 10 AM – 4 PM
- Frequent beaches, trails, or golf courses
- Take medications that increase sun sensitivity (like antibiotics or retinoids)
- Use exfoliating skincare products (AHA, BHA, retinol)
How to Prevent Sunburn: OC Sun Safety Guide
1. Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
- SPF 30 or higher
- Apply 15–30 minutes before sun exposure
- Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating
- Use water-resistant formulas for beach or pool days
2. Wear Sun-Protective Gear
- Wide-brim hats, UV-blocking sunglasses
- UPF-rated long sleeves or rash guards
- Seek shade when possible
3. Plan Smart
- Avoid peak UV hours
- Use UV Index apps to track daily risk
- Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade
Local Tip: Even when surfing in Huntington Beach or hiking Crystal Cove, UV rays bounce off water and sand, increasing exposure apply zinc oxide to high-risk areas like the nose and cheeks.
Sunburn Treatment: What to Do If You’re Burned
Immediate Steps:
- Cool showers or damp compresses
- Aloe vera or fragrance-free moisturizer
- Hydration drink plenty of water
- Loose, breathable clothing
Avoid:
- Oil-based or scented lotions
- Scrubbing, exfoliating, or shaving
- Popping blisters
- More sun exposure until healed
When to See a Dermatologist
Visit Irvine Dermatology if your sunburn is:
- Severe or blistering
- Covers a large area
- Accompanied by fever, chills, or nausea
- Not improving after 3–5 days
- Recurrent or accompanied by unusual moles or skin changes
Irvine Dermatology Sun Care Services
Our board-certified dermatologists provide:
- Skin cancer screenings
- Sun damage evaluations
- Custom sunscreen recommendations
- Prescription topical treatments
- Mole mapping & digital dermoscopy
Whether you’re dealing with a painful sunburn or want long-term skin protection, Irvine Dermatology is here to help.
Serving All of Orange County
Conveniently located in the heart of Irvine, Irvine Dermatology proudly serves patients throughout Orange County, including nearby communities such as Newport Beach, Tustin, Costa Mesa, Lake Forest, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Huntington Beach, and many more. Our central location allows us to provide accessible, expert dermatologic care to residents across the region, whether you’re coming from the coast, the foothills, or anywhere in between.
Stay Safe in the California Sun
Sunburn doesn’t just ruin your weekend, it can damage your skin for life. At Irvine Dermatology, we help Orange County residents protect their skin with personalized care, education, and expert sun damage management.
Schedule a Consultation Today for your Sunburn Treatment.
Let us help you stay sun-safe.
Book online or call: 949-800-8551
Location: 6865 Alton Parkway, Suite 210, Irvine, CA 92618