Sunburn is a common problem that can occur when skin is exposed to UV radiation for too long, even after using sunscreen. Here are important considerations and steps you can take if your skin is sunburned:
Sunburn risk factors: The risk of sunburn is influenced by several factors, including:
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Skin type: People with light skin burn faster than those with darker skin tones.
- Skin type 1: Milky white skin, reddish or light blond hair, lots of freckles, burns quickly (5-10 minutes in the sun without protection).
- Skin type 2: Pale skin, blond to light brown hair, also burns quickly but can tan lightly (10-20 minutes).
- Skin type 3: Pale skin, dark blond to dark brown hair, burns less quickly, tans easily (20-30 minutes).
- Skin type 4: Tinted skin, dark brown to black hair, rarely burns, tans very easily (30-45 minutes).
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Age: Children are more susceptible to sunburn because of their thin skin and longer-term risk of skin cancer after frequent exposure.
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Medications and cosmetics: Some medications and cosmetics can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause allergic reactions.
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Scars: Fresh scars are more sensitive to UV radiation and need extra protection to prevent discoloration.
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Body parts: Parts of the body that are normally less exposed to the sun, such as the upper arms, legs, back and abdomen, are more susceptible to sunburn.
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UV Index: The intensity of UV radiation varies depending on season, time of day, and geographic location.
How do you recognize sunburn? Symptoms of sunburn may appear several hours after sun exposure and include:
- Red, glowing skin.
- Sore or swollen skin.
- Moisture vesicles on the skin (in severe cases).
- Flaking of the skin.
In severe cases, symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, headache and palpitations may also occur.
What can you do about sunburn yourself?
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Remove from sun: Go inside immediately or seek shade to avoid further exposure to UV radiation.
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Cool the skin: Use wet cloths, take a lukewarm shower or bath to cool the skin. However, avoid ice-cold water to prevent hypothermia.
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Gently dry: Gently pat skin dry to prevent irritation.
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Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer, hydrocolloid cream or aftersun lotion to hydrate the skin and promote recovery.
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Protect clothing: Wear light, loose clothing that does not chafe or pinch the skin.
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Pain relief: If necessary, you can take a painkiller such as paracetamol to relieve pain.
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Leave blisters intact: Leave blisters intact as much as possible to reduce the risk of infection.
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Avoid sunlight: Stay out of the sun for at least 3 days (longer for severe sunburn) to give the skin a chance to recover.
When to consult a doctor?
- For fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, severe headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea or vomiting.
- For extensive sunburn covering large areas of skin.
- In the formation of many blisters.
- In young children.
- If the skin has not recovered after 2 weeks.
Sunburn can cause serious health problems and sometimes requires medical attention, especially in children and severe symptoms. It is important to protect the skin from overexposure to UV radiation and respond to signs of sunburn in a timely manner.
