Sunscreen and Sunblock Topic Guide

Seaweed irritation is caused by direct contact with Lyngbya majuscula seaweed when it becomes trapped under bathing suits and other areas where skin to skin contact occurs. Treatment of seaweed irritation includes over-the-counter remedies. Symptoms of seaweed irritation include itching, burning, redness, blisters, and swelling. Consult a doctor if any signs of infection or if any symptoms other than a local reaction (redness or itching) occurs on the skin.

Skin cancer, the most common cancer, happens when skin cells start growing out of control, usually as a result of too much ultraviolet light exposure from the sun or tanning booths. Of the three types of skin cancer -- basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma -- melanoma is the deadliest. Surgery is the most common treatment for skin cancer.

Sunburn is a burn on the skin caused by UV radiation. Mild sunburn symptoms include skin redness and pain. Severe cases of sunburn (sun poisoning) are complicated by skin burning and blistering, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and possibly infection. A sun rash is caused by a condition referred to as polymorphous light eruption (PMLE). Home remedies for sunburn include over-the-counter pain medicine, aloe vera gels and lotions, and cool tepid baths. Severe sunburn may need medical treatment. Prevention of sunburn include staying out of the sun during the peak hours of the day, wearing sunscreen often and reapply often, and wear protective clothing shielding the exposed body from the sun.

Wrinkles are normally found in healthy skin. Wrinkles may be caused by muscle contraction, sun exposure, and smoking. Limiting exposure to ultraviolet light and avoiding smoking may help to prevent wrinkles.