CONDITIONS
Sunburn
Sunburn is a visible reaction of the skin’s exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, mostly received by sunlight. Sunburn results in inflamed, painful skin that feels hot. Simple self-care measures such as taking pain relievers and cooling the skin may help in sunburn relief.
What are the symptoms of sunburn?
Sunburn symptoms often appear within a few hours after sun exposure and could be any of the following:
- Inflamed skin, that looks pink or red
- Pain, tenderness, and itching
- Swelling
- Small, fluid-filled blisters
- Severe Sunburn may cause headache, fever, nausea and fatigue
- Eyes that feel painful or gritty
What are the causes and risk factors of Sunburn?
Too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, from the sun or artificial sources, such as sunlamps and tanning beds is the commonest cause of sunburn.
The UV light causes damage to the skin cells, triggering the immune system to increase blood flow to the affected areas, causing inflamed skin (erythema) known as sunburn.
A person can get a sunburn on cool or cloudy days by the reflection of UV rays from surfaces such as snow, sand, and water.
Some factors may increase the chances of sunburn. These are:
- White skin and red hair (low protective pigment melanin)
- History of sunburn
- Vacationing or living at a sunny, warm place or at a higher altitude.
- Working outdoors
- Swimming or spraying skin with water (wet skin tends to burn more than dry skin)
- Exposure of unprotected skin (no sunscreen) to UV light
- Medication that increasing sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitizing medication)
How is Sunburn diagnosed?
The doctor usually diagnoses by conducting a physical exam and asking about symptoms, current medications, UV exposure and sunburn history.
Phototesting is suggested in case the sunburn occurs after a short time of exposure in the sun. Phototesting is a test where small areas of skin is exposed to measured amounts of UVA and UVB light to mimic the problem. Positive reaction to the test indicates a sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitive).
What are the treatment options for Sunburn?
Sunburn heals within 7 days after the skin starts peeling. Sunburn treatment doesn’t heal the skin, but can ease the pain, swelling and discomfort. In severe cases of sunburn, a prescription corticosteroid cream may be suggested by the doctor or admission to the hospital may also be required in very severe cases.
Following things may aid in relief of symptoms:
- Apply cold compresses to the skin or take a cool bath to soothe the burn.
- Take a pain reliever as soon as possible to relieve pain
- Apply a moisturizer, lotion or gel such aloe vera lotion or gel or calamine lotion. This can also be kept in the refrigerator before applying to cool the product.
- Drink extra water for a day to avoid dehydration
- Cover sunburnt skin from direct sunlight until skin has fully healed
- Do not tweak or touch the blisters as an intact blister can help the skin heal.
- Take an anti-itch drug to relieve itching as the skin begins to peel and heal underneath.
- Avoid applying ‘-caine’ products, such as benzocaine because such creams can irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction
What should not be done after a sunburn?
- Do not use petroleum jelly on sunburnt skin
- Do not put ice or ice packs on sunburnt skin
- Do not pop any blisters
- Do not scratch or try to remove peeling skin
- Do not wear tight-fitting clothes over sunburnt skin
How can Sunburn be prevented?
- Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m as the sun’s rays are strongest during these hours.
- Limit the time in the sun seeking shade whenever possible.
- Avoid sun tanning and tanning beds.
- Using Sunscreens:
- Use water-resistant, broad-spectrum lip balm and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Use it often and apply generously.
- Broad-spectrum products offer protection against ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
- Generously apply your sunscreen to clean, dry skin about 30 minutes before going outdoors
- Use at least 2 tablespoons of sunscreen to cover all exposed surfaces of the skin, except the eyelids.
- Spray sunscreen should be used into the hands and then rubbed into the skin to avoid inhaling the product.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours — or more often if you’re swimming or perspiring.
- Check sunscreen labels for directions on storing and expiration dates and discard any expired sunscreen or sunscreen that is more than three years old.
- Protect babies and toddlers by putting on brimmed hats and lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs. Keep them cool, hydrated and out of direct sunlight. In case that is not possible, apply sunscreen SPF 15 the face and back of the hands. Sunscreen is not recommended under 6 months.
- Cover up when outside by umbrellas or wide-brimmed hats in addition to sunscreen.
- Wear sunglasses when outdoors with UVA and UVB protection.
References
- Mayo Clinic. April 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sunburn/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355928
- WebMD. April 2024. https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/sunburn
- NHS UK. April 2024. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sunburn/
