Doctor warns against yogurt and oils for sunburns, advises cooling

Prolonged sun exposure can lead to significant, long-lasting damage to the skin, which is our largest organ, according to Dr. Biljana Ćertić, a specialist in plastic and reconstructive surgery. She emphasizes that the skin "remembers everything," and continuous exposure to the sun's rays can cause tissue damage. This damage increases the risk of developing melanomas and other skin cancers.

Dr. Ćertić advises caution regarding the timing and duration of sun exposure, especially during vacations or at swimming pools where people tend to relax and sometimes fall asleep in the sun, leading to extensive burns. While these burns are typically not life-threatening, they can result in lasting consequences. She also notes that even with sunscreen, prolonged exposure during periods of very high UV radiation can be harmful.

For minor sunburns characterized by redness, stinging, and pain, Dr. Ćertić recommends staying in the shade, drinking plenty of fluids, and most importantly, cooling the affected skin. She specifically cautions against using home remedies such as yogurt, sour milk, oils, or various ointments, stressing that cooling is the primary treatment. In other countries, specialized cold compresses are available, but in Serbia, a cool shower or a cold compress can be used.

Medical attention should be sought when burns cover a large area of the body, leading to blisters, fever, or chills. Dr. Ćertić explains that while sunburns are generally not immediately life-threatening, burns from hot liquids or fire can be. These types of burns, even if they cover a smaller area, cause more significant tissue destruction and require surgical treatment due to the immediate danger they pose to life.