Dealing with sunburn
In this article
Sunburn prevention is better than cure
When it comes to sunburn, dermatologists unanimously agree that prevention is always better than cure. However, sometimes it is possible to get caught out despite being careful, and it is important to have the necessary tools at hand to know how best to manage your skin.
What is sunburn?
Sunburn is an acute inflammatory reaction that follows over-exposure to ultraviolet radiation. It causes direct damage to DNA resulting in inflammation and death of skin cells. The risk is higher in equatorial areas or at altitude, particularly in those with fair skin types. Sunburn in childhood or adolescence can double the risk of developing melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, in later life.
How do you know if you have sunburn?
Signs and symptoms of sunburn usually develop 2-6 hours after sun exposure and peak at about 12-24 hours. The skin can become hot, red, swollen, tender, and blisters may form. In severe cases of sunburn it is possible to develop dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and secondary skin infection. In rare cases it can potentially be fatal.
What to do if you get caught out in the sun
Cover up the affected areas and stay in the shade until your sunburn has healed. Wear loose cotton clothing that allows your skin to “breathe” over the sunburnt areas.
When to seek medical help for sunburn?
Severe cases of sunburn require emergency medical treatment. If you develop blisters that affect up to 20% of your body surface area, fever, nausea, chills, severe pain, headache, fainting or dizziness it is vital to seek medical attention. Severe sunburn can be associated with heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which are life-threatening conditions.
Remember to protect your skin from harmful UV rays
In an ideal world, preventing sunburn remains key to maintaining skin integrity and health. Not only does sunburn cause short-term discomfort, it also has a number of well-recognised long-term consequences including the development of future skin cancers and risk of premature ageing (fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation changes).
Make sure you look after your body’s largest organ and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen offering UVA and UVB protection. This should be at least an SPF 30. Avoid the midday sun and wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses to limit the skin’s exposure to UV radiation. Your skin will thank you for it in the long run.
Dr Anjali Mahto
Consultant Dermatologist & British Skin Foundation spokesperson
