Biomechanics
By Amanda Brunner

The Sun and You

While burns aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of mountain bikes, sun burn is a legitimate concern for much of the country this time of year. Riders tend to get out during the most critical times of the day when the sun is most direct (and most damaging). While exposure to the sun in moderate doses is a good thing as it contains vitamin D which is essential to the body’s ability to absorb calcium, being sensible is the key.

No matter what skin type you have the risk for sunburn remains. Worse yet overexposure can turn into sun poisoning. Always lather on the sunscreen before going out for a ride, even if it is not particularly hot out. It is often critical to reapply sunscreen every half hour of direct exposure as it becomes absorbed and wears off due to activity.

For individuals who believe sunscreen will ruin their chance for a tan, the risk of damaging the dermis is far greater. Your skin exists for protection and is often taken for granted. When sunburn develops it is generally considered a first degree burn or one that actually destroys the top layer of skin. While painful, within a few days new skin will develop beneath the burn and the old will peel away.

Some misbelieve that the damage is done once they get over the painful period of the burn but each time the skin is burnt, the body is at risk for radiation poisoning that could ultimately lead to skin cancers. A burn so severely that blisters develop is considered a second degree burn (which is actually the most painful burn of all). What happens in a second degree situation is that the first layer of skin is literally destroyed all the way down to the nerves themselves. Once exposed, even air hurts when it brushes along the nerve endings. Again this type of skin damage puts the sufferer at an even greater risk for skin cancer from radiation.

Even on the days that aren’t overly hot, keep in mind that the sun’s radiation is what penetrates the skin (and is independent of the air temp). You are at even greater risk on those not-so-hot days on account of the fact that you spend more time in the direct sunlight without feeling the heat.

If you forgot your sunscreen or you didn't listen to my sound advice, there are a few things you can use to relieve the pain. Aloe is critical to the skin and relieves some of the pain. It helps the new skin develop and assists with decreasing scars. If you know what an aloe plant looks like and happen to encounter one on the trail, break it open and apply the liquid directly to your skin. If there isn't anything readily available get out of the sun and head to any local drug store where they should have aloe laced lotion readily available. If on the other hand you develop severe sunburn with blisters, the emergency room for IV replacement fluids and electrolytes is in order. When blisters develop, bodily fluid shifts to nourish tissues (which in turn could put a strain on the kidneys and other internal organs). Drink plenty of fluids, especially water or water mixed 50/50 with sports drink. The sports drink provides the electrolytes while the water keeps you hydrated. Steer clear of sugary liquids they have no benefit to keeping you hydrated and could compromise the body’s ability to absorb the fluids that it needs.

Have fun and stay protected, wear the sunscreen even if it is just SPF 10 - some is better than none.