What is sunburn?

Sunburn is a radiation burn caused by excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. It can also result from other UV light sources, such as solariums or tanning salons. Sunburn manifests as redness (erythema), swelling (oedema), heat, blisters, and painful sensitivity that peaks 24 to 48 hours after exposure, often followed by peeling and pigmentation changes.

The Science Behind Sunburn

At a cellular level, sunburn is associated with microscopic damage to the skin. This triggers an acute inflammatory process, characterised by dermal vasodilation and white cell infiltration. UV exposure also leads to the formation of sunburn cells and a reduction in Langerhans cells and mast cells, both essential components of the immune defence system.

The sun emits three types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC. While UVC is mostly absorbed by the earth’s atmosphere, UVA and UVB rays penetrate the skin. UVB primarily affects the epidermis (the skin’s outer layer), while UVA penetrates deeper, damaging proteins, membranes, and DNA. DNA damage from UV exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer, solar elastosis (yellowing or sallowing of the skin), and photoaging (wrinkling, pigmentation, sagging skin).

Sun Protection Tips

Preventing sunburn starts with a proactive approach. Here are some tips to keep your skin safe:

• Cover Up: Wear clothing that shields your skin, such as long-sleeved kaftans, UPF-rated apparel, or one-piece swimsuits and leggings for activities like snorkelling.

• Wear Accessories: Opt for a broad-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.

• Seek Shade: Use beach tents or umbrellas and adjust them as the sun’s position changes throughout the day.

• Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on all exposed skin, including ears, back of the neck, and tops of feet. Use approximately one teaspoon for each area (arms, legs, body front and back, and face).

• Reapply Often: Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Keep sunscreen cool by storing it in a cooler or wrapping it in a towel. Not in the car!

• Use Antioxidants: Apply a vitamin C serum in the morning after cleansing.

Caring for Sunburn

If you find yourself sunburned despite precautions, follow these steps to promote healing:

1. Recognise Severe Symptoms: Seek medical attention for symptoms like fever, nausea, dizziness, confusion, or seizures, which could indicate sunstroke.

2. Rest and Protect: Allow your body to heal by resting and avoiding further sun exposure.

3. Manage Pain: Use anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen to reduce pain, redness, and swelling. Antihistamines can help alleviate itchiness.

4. Cool the Skin: Apply cool compresses or take short, cool baths several times a day to soothe the skin.

5. Moisturize: Use aloe vera or cold moisturisers to hydrate the skin. Topical steroids can also provide relief. Avoid alcohol-based products and -caine anesthetics, which may irritate the skin.

6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and support skin repair.

7. Leave Blisters Alone: If blisters form, avoid popping them. Cover broken blisters with white soft paraffin and nonstick dressings.

8. Care for Peeling Skin: Once peeling begins, apply hydrating and occlusive moisturizers frequently. Avoid pulling off dead skin to prevent further damage.

Sunburn is preventable with proper preparation and care. By taking precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, using antioxidants, and applying sunscreen correctly, you can enjoy the sun safely. If sunburn occurs, prompt and effective aftercare is essential to minimize discomfort and support healing. Treat your skin with care, and it will thank you by staying healthy and radiant.