Modern women are at increased risk of pubic sunburn, according to a skin expert.
This is the warning from a British skin specialist following the growing trend of women who choose to remove hair to lower their natural "bikini line".
Ella Tracey, managing director of the White Light Skin Clinics, says there has been a vast incr
ease in women who remove a high percentage of their pubic hair for a neat and tidy bikini line.
"This trend has increased hugely among all ages," said Ella. "It looks great, but people are forgetting that the skin in this region can have a slow melanin production rate and will also be extremely light sensitive. This means it can burn very easily."
Ella says one problem is that after hair removal, many women use a fake tan to ensure they look terrific in a bikini and forget this area of sensitive skin needs constant high level protection. She also says there have been cases of wind burn in this area as skin that has never before been exposed is suddenly thrust into outside environments..
"Modern treatments mean natural hair doesn't quickly regrow," said Ella. "Women simply forget they have had their hair removed in this area and simply aren't giving it the extra protection it needs."
For this area, the medical team at the White Light Skin Clinics advise that people need a broad spectrum sun cream that protects against both ultraviolet type B and also ultraviolet type A radiation.
"Whatever the level of sun protection you are using for the rest of your body, you should invest in a lotion with at least a 30+ protection factor for your bikini line and re-apply it regularly when outside, whether in the sun or shade," says Ella.
Treatment for sunburn in this sensitive area is the same as for other areas of the body and if it is severe, people are advised to seek professional advice.
