Sunburns are a common problem, especially during the summer months when we spend more time outdoors.
This article will explore in detail the causes, symptoms, consequences, and remedies for sunburns, providing useful information to prevent and treat them effectively.
What are the causes of sunburns?
Sunburns, also known as solar erythema, are caused by excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
These harmful rays penetrate the skin, causing damage to skin cells. The main causes of sunburns include:
- Prolonged sun exposure: spending too much time in the sun without adequate protection is the primary cause of sunburns.
- Lack of sun protection: not using sunscreen with an appropriate protection factor or not reapplying it regularly increases the risk of sunburns.
- Time of day: sun exposure during the middle hours of the day (generally between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM) when UV rays are most intense, increases the risk of sunburns.
- Skin phototype: people with fair or sensitive skin are more susceptible to sunburns.
- Altitude and reflections: at high altitudes or in the presence of reflective surfaces such as water, snow, or sand, UV ray intensity increases, raising the risk of sunburns.
- Photosensitizing medications: some medications can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, making sunburns more likely.
What are the symptoms and consequences?
This condition can manifest with various symptoms and can have both short-term and long-term consequences on skin health.
These below are the normal symptoms of this problem.
Remember that sunburn can also be a very serious condition and require medical attention, even immediate, so take this list as an indication to understand the situation.
- Skin redness
- Pain and sensitivity to touch
- Emanating heat
- Swelling
- Local and widespread itching
- Fluid-filled blisters
- Peeling
The consequences of a mild or more severe sunburn can also be equally serious.
For example, dehydration and infections can occur, the skin may experience premature aging, and this excessive exposure can increase the risk of skin cancers and melanomas.
Remedies and care
There are several effective remedies to alleviate sunburn symptoms and promote skin healing:
- Cooling: applying cold compresses or taking a cool shower can relieve burning and pain.
- Hydration: drinking plenty of water helps counteract dehydration caused by sunburn.
- Moisturizer: applying a gentle moisturizing lotion can help soothe the skin and prevent dryness.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel has soothing properties and can accelerate the healing of sunburned skin.
- Anti-inflammatories: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (when possible) can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Baking soda bath: adding baking soda to bathwater can relieve itching and burning.
- Avoid further exposure: protect sunburned skin from further sun exposure until fully healed.
- Protective clothing: wear light, long-sleeved clothing to protect the skin during the healing process.
- Don’t break blisters: if blisters form, it’s important not to break them to avoid infections.
It should be clear that the best thing before choosing any of these remedies, especially if the sunburn is particularly intense, is to consult your doctor.
Only your medical professional knows you well and can examine you in person to give you the best advice for your specific situation.
Lotion for sunburns
Choosing the right lotion is crucial for treating them.
An adequate cream should contain soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera or calendula.
It should also have a light texture and have moisturizing and possibly anti-inflammatory capabilities, should be fragrance-free, and possibly have sun-protective and antioxidant capabilities.
In any case, never apply anything if you’re not sure of its effectiveness and your body’s ability to tolerate that product: the only person who can adequately advise you if you have doubts is always your doctor.
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SOURCES
Guerra KC, Crane JS. Sunburn. 2023 Oct 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan–. PMID: 30521258.