Are you ready for some fun in the sun? Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent and antihistamines, says Coquitlam pharmacist Kiran Basran.
Please try to imagine…
Have you marked this season's big events on your calendar – a wedding, a beach trip, a family picnic, etc.?
Just when you're gearing up to look your best, your skin suddenly takes a turn for the worse. Whether it's sunburn, hives, or bug bites, skin problems always seem to pop up at the worst possible time.
Taking care of your skin is not just for beauty, it is also important for your health: it protects you from dehydration, bacterial infections and pollution and plays a vital role in your overall health.
Now, with the pharmacists' expanded scope of practice, Coquitlam residents can visit their local pharmacy to get minor skin conditions diagnosed and treated, avoiding the hassle of waiting at a walk-in clinic and ensuring they don't miss a moment for a special event.
Let's take a look at how pharmacists like me can help treat common skin conditions and restore a healthy glow.
We're all screaming for sunscreen.
Are you ready for some fun in the sun? Don't forget your sunscreen!
SPF helps us protect ourselves from the sun and reduce our risk of developing skin cancer.
As you browse the sunscreen aisle at your local pharmacy, keep the following in mind:
Make sure you choose one with an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF relates to your ability to block the sun's UVB rays, with SPF 30 blocking 97% of UVB rays. If available, look for a broad spectrum one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. If you're heading to the beach or pool this summer, look for a water-resistant sunscreen that will protect you from the sun while you splash around. And don't forget, it's not a one-and-done thing. It's recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or sooner depending on the product label.
Come on, hives.
Hives, caused by the release of histamine as a defense against potential allergens, are common among Canadians.
Hives are extremely common – 20-25 per cent of Canadians will experience them at some point in their lives – and we always see a spike in local cases around this time of year when pollen levels are high and insects emerge from hibernation.
Luckily, British Columbia residents don’t need to worry too much if symptoms worsen, as pharmacists are here to help. We’ll quickly provide antihistamines to soothe the itching and reduce swelling, and we can recommend both over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Plus, we'll give you plenty of tips and tricks to help you avoid triggers and manage the discomfort, including suggestions for suitable skin care products and advice on lifestyle adjustments.
Insects that relieve itching
Humans aren't the only ones looking forward to summer.
Mosquitoes and other insects love hotter temperatures, so you may start to hear them buzzing around you more frequently as spring and summer progresses.
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from mosquitoes is to use repellent.
If you're overwhelmed by the plethora of insect repellents on offer, your pharmacist can recommend some products for you, and if your bites cause more than just an annoying itch, they can also obtain and prescribe treatments if necessary.
Your skin deserves some TLC. Your pharmacist can help.
The best part is that we are available even when primary care offices are closed and can provide rapid acute care for a variety of minor conditions, reducing strain on other parts of the healthcare system.
Visit your local pharmacist and get fast and convenient response to all your health needs.
Kiran Basran is a pharmacist and owner of local store Shoppers Drug Mart in Coquitlam.
