Sunburn

 

Sunburn: Causes, Symptoms, Complications, and Prevention

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Learn about sunburn — its symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, and how to protect your skin from UV damage. Discover effective ways to prevent and treat sunburn naturally.

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Overview

Sunburn refers to inflammation and tenderness of the skin that feels hot to the touch after excessive exposure to sunlight. It usually appears within a few hours of being outdoors under strong UV rays.

While mild sunburns can be relieved with simple self-care measures such as cooling the skin and taking pain relievers, it may take several days for the skin to fully heal.
Preventing sunburn by using sunscreen and following protective sun habits is essential — even on cloudy or cold days.

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Symptoms of Sunburn

Sunburn symptoms may vary in intensity but can include:

• Pink or red skin (more visible on fair skin; less noticeable on darker skin tones)

• Warmth or heat on the affected area

• Pain, tenderness, or itching

• Swelling

• Small fluid-filled blisters that may burst

• Headache, fever, nausea, and fatigue in severe cases

• Eye discomfort that feels like having sand in the eyes

Sunburn commonly affects exposed areas such as the ears, scalp, lips, face, and shoulders. However, UV rays can also penetrate loose fabrics, causing burns under clothing. Even your eyes can suffer from UV damage due to their high sensitivity to sunlight.

Symptoms often appear within a few hours of sun exposure, and the body begins to heal naturally within several days as the top layer of damaged skin peels off.

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When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Large blisters

• Blisters on the face, hands, or genitals

• Severe swelling or infection signs (pus, redness, streaks)

• Increasing pain, confusion, nausea, fever, or chills

• Worsening symptoms despite home care

• Eye pain or changes in vision

Get emergency medical care if you have:

• A fever over 39.4°C (103°F) with vomiting

• Dehydration, confusion, or fainting

• Skin cold to the touch or signs of infection

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Causes

Sunburn is caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from the sun, but also from artificial sources like tanning beds and UV lamps.

• UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term damage such as premature aging.

• UVB rays affect the skin’s surface and are primarily responsible for sunburn.

UV rays damage the DNA in skin cells, triggering the immune system’s inflammatory response — resulting in redness, swelling, and pain.
Sunburn can occur even on cold or cloudy days, as surfaces like snow, sand, and water reflect UV rays, intensifying exposure.

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Risk Factors

You are more likely to develop sunburn if you have:

• Fair skin or red hair

• A history of sunburns

• Live or vacation in sunny or high-altitude areas

• Work outdoors frequently

• Wet skin (from swimming or using baby oil)

• Alcohol consumption during outdoor activities

• Regular exposure to UV rays (sunlight or tanning beds)

• Medications that increase photosensitivity (light sensitivity)

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Complications

Repeated or severe sunburns increase the risk of long-term skin damage and certain diseases, including:

1. Premature Skin Aging (Photoaging)

Chronic UV exposure causes the skin to age faster, leading to:

• Wrinkles and fine lines

• Rough, dry texture

• Loss of skin elasticity

• Broken capillaries (red veins on the face)

• Freckles and dark spots

2. Precancerous Skin Lesions

Long-term sun exposure can cause actinic keratosis, rough, scaly patches that appear on sun-damaged skin. These lesions can develop into skin cancer if left untreated.

3. Skin Cancer

Frequent UV exposure, even without visible sunburn, can lead to melanoma and other skin cancers.
Watch for warning signs like:

• New or changing moles

• Unhealed sores

• Growths that bleed or crust

4. Eye Damage

Excessive UV radiation can damage the cornea and lens, leading to conditions like photokeratitis (snow blindness) or cataracts. Symptoms may include eye pain or a gritty sensation.

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Prevention

Protecting your skin from UV damage is the best way to prevent sunburn. Follow these tips:

1. Avoid Peak Sun Hours

Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.

2. Use Sunscreen Properly

• Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

• Apply generously (about 2 tablespoons for the body) 30 minutes before sun exposure.

• Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.

• Don’t forget lips — use an SPF lip balm.

3. Wear Protective Clothing

• Long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses.

• Look for clothing with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) labeling.

• Dark, tightly woven fabrics provide better protection.

4. Protect Babies and Children

Keep infants and toddlers out of direct sunlight. Use hats, protective clothing, and a baby-safe sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) on exposed areas.

5. Be Cautious with Medications

Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether your medications can increase photosensitivity (e.g., antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, cholesterol medications).

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Key Takeaway

Sunburn is more than just red skin — it’s cellular damage that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer over time.
Protecting your skin every day — not just in summer — is the best way to maintain healthy, youthful skin for life.

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