What Causes Sunburn?

Sunburn is the term for red, sometimes swollen and painful skin. It is caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Sunburn can vary from mild to severe. The extent depends on skin type and amount of exposure to the sun. Sunburn is a serious risk factor for skin cancer and for sun damage.

On a minute-by-minute basis, the amount of UV radiation is dependent on the angle of the sun. This is easily determined by the height ratio of any object to the size of its shadow. The greatest risk is at solar noon, when shadows are at their minimum and the sun's radiation passes more directly through the atmosphere. 

The symptoms of sunburn vary from person to person. You may not notice redness of the skin for several hours after the burn has begun. Peak redness will take 12-24 hours. Minor sunburns typically cause nothing more than slight redness and tenderness to the affected areas. In more serious cases, blistering can occur. Extreme sunburns can be painful to the point of debilitation and may require hospital care.  In much more severe cases, symptoms include fever, chills, nausea and vomiting, weakness and symptoms of shock that can constitute of low blood pressure, fainting and/or extreme weakness. 

Treating sunburn involves activities like doing quick and effective actions to prevent further damaging of the skin. It should always be remembered that the most effective way of treating sunburn is by taking up a quick step. The earlier one starts treatment the more effective will be the healing process. Plenty of fluids, anti-inflammatory medications, cool compresses, high-quality moisturizing creams and lotions may be prescribed. The pain and burning associated with sunburn can be relieved with a number of different remedies applied to the burn site. The skin can be hydrated by applying topical products containing Aloe Vera which reduce inflammation.

Take emergency medical care if:

• Sunburn forms blister or if extremely painful
• Facial swelling from sun burn
• Sunburn covers a large area
• Have chills or fever after getting sun burned
• Has feeling of faintness or confusion
• Increased signs of dehydration like excessive thirst, dry eyes and mouth

Commercial preparations are available that block UV light, known as sunscreens or sun blocks. They have a sunburn protection factor (SPF) rating, based on the sun block’s ability to suppress sunburn. Basically, the higher the SPF rating, the lower the amount of direct DNA damage. Research has shown that the best protection is achieved by application 15 to 30 minutes before exposure, followed by one reapplication 15 to 30 minutes after exposure begins. Further reapplication is only necessary after activities such as swimming, sweating, and rubbing.