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Summer Sunburn or Skin Damage
Virtual Skin Care Across Texas
A day at the pool, lake, baseball field, beach, or backyard barbecue is one of the best parts of summer in Texas. However, spending too much time in the sun without proper protection can leave your skin feeling sore, red, and irritated.
Sunburns are common during the warmer months and can range from mild redness to more uncomfortable burns. Although many mild sunburns improve with home care, some situations deserve medical evaluation to help determine the most appropriate treatment.
VirtualCare2Go offers secure telehealth appointments for patients throughout Texas. Licensed medical providers evaluate many common skin concerns and recommend treatment options when medically appropriate.
If you experience severe blistering over a large area, difficulty breathing, confusion, fainting, signs of heat stroke, or another medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately.
What Causes Sunburn?
Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation for longer than it can safely tolerate.
Several factors may increase your risk, including:
- Spending long periods outdoors
- Forgetting sunscreen
- Swimming or water activities
- High UV index days
- Fair or sensitive skin
- Certain medications that increase sun sensitivity
Even cloudy days can expose your skin to ultraviolet rays.
Common Symptoms
A mild sunburn may include:
- Redness
- Warm skin
- Tenderness
- Mild swelling
- Dry skin
- Itching
- Tight feeling skin
- Discomfort when touched
More severe burns may include blistering or widespread pain and require prompt medical evaluation.
When Virtual Care May Help
Many mild sunburns and skin irritations may begin with a telehealth evaluation.
During your appointment, your provider may ask about:
- When the sun exposure occurred
- Areas affected
- Presence of blisters
- Fever or chills
- Current medications
- Medical history
- Hydration
- Any previous skin conditions
You may also be asked to upload photographs or use your device's camera to help your provider evaluate your skin.
Treatment recommendations depend on your medical evaluation. Prescriptions are only provided when medically appropriate and are never guaranteed.
Tips for Protecting Your Skin
Protecting your skin can reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term sun damage.
Helpful reminders include:
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen before going outdoors.
- Reapply sunscreen as directed, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Wear lightweight protective clothing.
- Use wide-brim hats and sunglasses.
- Seek shade during peak afternoon hours.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
These habits may help keep your skin healthier all summer long.
Insurance Information
VirtualCare2Go accepts many insurance plans, including Texas Medicaid plans when applicable, CHIP plans when applicable, commercial insurance plans, and employer-sponsored insurance plans.
Coverage depends on eligibility, network participation, medical necessity, and your individual insurance benefits. Patients should verify coverage before their appointment.
Texas Communities We Serve
VirtualCare2Go provides telehealth services throughout Texas.
Whether you're relaxing at home, staying at a vacation rental, camping, spending the weekend at the lake, or traveling anywhere within Texas, you may connect with one of our licensed medical providers.
Patients must be physically located in Texas during their virtual visit.
Why Choose VirtualCare2Go
Summer skin concerns don't always require leaving home.
VirtualCare2Go offers:
- Online scheduling anytime
- Same-day appointments when available
- Licensed medical providers
- Care from anywhere in Texas
- Secure virtual visits
- Personalized treatment recommendations
Every patient receives an individualized evaluation based on their symptoms and medical history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sunburn be evaluated through telehealth?
Many mild sunburns may be appropriate for an initial virtual evaluation. Your provider will determine whether telehealth is appropriate or if an in-person evaluation is recommended.
Will I automatically receive medication?
No. Treatment recommendations depend on your provider's medical evaluation. Prescriptions are only provided when medically appropriate and are never guaranteed.
How can I help prevent sunburn?
Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and staying hydrated may help reduce the risk of sunburn.
When should I seek emergency care?
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience widespread blistering, severe dehydration, confusion, fainting, signs of heat stroke, or other emergency symptoms.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If a sunburn or skin irritation is making it difficult to enjoy your summer, VirtualCare2Go is here to help.
Our licensed medical providers offer convenient telehealth appointments throughout Texas. Online scheduling is available anytime, and same-day appointments may be available depending on scheduling.
Book your virtual appointment today: