Sunburn is a common yet often underestimated skin condition caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. While it may seem like a temporary nuisance, it can have serious long-term effects, including premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.
As a nurse, I want to break down everything you need to know about sunburn—its causes, symptoms, first aid, treatment, and most importantly, prevention—in a way that’s easy to understand and apply in everyday life.
What is Sunburn?
Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to too much UV radiation, leading to inflammation and damage at the cellular level. The body’s natural defence mechanism tries to repair the damage, which results in the characteristic redness, pain, and peeling of the skin. It varies in severity, from mild redness to painful blistering and deep tissue damage.
The intensity of sunburn depends on several factors, including:
- Use (or lack) of sun protection like sunscreen, clothing, and shade
- Skin type (fair-skinned individuals burn more easily)
- Duration and intensity of sun exposure
- Time of day (UV radiation is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM)
- Geographic location (closer to the equator = stronger UV rays)
Signs and Symptoms
Sunburn symptoms don’t appear immediately; they typically develop within a few hours after sun exposure and worsen over the next 12 to 24 hours. Depending on the severity, symptoms may include:
Mild Symptoms
- Redness of the skin (erythema)
- Warmth or tightness of the affected area
- Mild pain or tenderness
- Slight swelling
Moderate Symptoms
- Intense redness
- More pronounced pain and tenderness
- Swelling and discomfort
- Skin sensitivity, making it painful to touch or move
- Mild peeling as the skin begins to heal
Severe Symptoms (Seek medical attention!)
- Blistering of the skin
- Severe pain and discomfort
- Fever, chills, and headache (signs of sun poisoning)
- Nausea or dizziness
- Extreme dehydration
- Signs of infection (pus, increased redness, worsening pain)
First Aid for Sunburn
If you or someone you know gets sunburned, acting quickly can help minimize damage and promote healing. Here’s what you should do:
- Get Out of the Sun Immediately
- Move to a shaded or indoor area to prevent further damage.
- Cool the Skin
- Take a cool (not cold) shower or apply damp compresses to reduce heat.
- Avoid ice packs, as they can worsen irritation by causing vasoconstriction (Vasoconstriction is when blood vessels narrow, reducing blood flow).
- Hydrate Inside and Out
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
- Apply aloe vera gel or a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe the skin.
- Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Avoid aspirin in children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
- Avoid Further Irritation
- Do not pop blisters—they protect the healing skin underneath.
- Wear loose, lightweight clothing to prevent friction and further irritation.
Also Read: Essential First Aid Kit Checklist: Must-Have Travel Safety Items
Treatment Options
Sunburn generally heals on its own within a few days to a week, but there are ways to speed up the process and ease discomfort:
Home Remedies for Sunburn Relief
- Aloe Vera – A natural anti-inflammatory that helps soothe and cool the skin.
- Cucumber Slices – Hydrating and cooling, they reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Milk Compresses – Proteins in milk help soothe inflammation.
- Honey – Has antibacterial properties to promote healing and prevent infection.
Medical Treatments for Severe Sunburn
In cases of severe sunburn, medical intervention may be necessary. A doctor may prescribe:
- Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
- Antibiotic ointments if blisters are at risk of infection.
- IV fluids if severe dehydration occurs due to sun poisoning.
When to See a Doctor
Most sunburns heal on their own within a week. However, seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe blistering covering a large area of the body.
- Persistent fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting.
- Signs of infection, such as increased pain, pus, or swelling.
- Confusion, dizziness, or fainting, which could indicate heatstroke.
Long-Term Effects
Many people think sunburn is just a temporary issue, but repeated sunburns increase the risk of:
- Skin Cancer – Especially melanoma, the deadliest form.
- Premature Aging – Wrinkles, fine lines, and sunspots appear earlier.
- Hyperpigmentation – Uneven skin tone and dark patches develop.
- Weakened Immune Response – Chronic sun exposure suppresses skin immunity, making it harder for the skin to repair itself.
How To Prevent Sunburn
Prevention is the best approach when it comes to sunburn. Follow these tips to protect your skin:
The best way to deal with it is to prevent it altogether. Here’s how:
Wear Sunscreen Daily
- Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
- Apply 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Cover Up
- Wear long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Use lightweight fabrics that provide coverage without overheating.
Seek Shade
- Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM.
- Sit under umbrellas, trees, or shelters whenever possible.
Stay Hydrated
- Sun exposure dehydrates the skin—drink plenty of water to keep skin healthy.
Check UV Index Before Going Outside
- A UV index of 3 or higher means sun protection is necessary.
- Use weather apps to monitor daily UV levels.
Myths and Misconceptions About Sunburn and its Treatment
Myth #1: “Butter or Oil Will Soothe Sunburn”
Truth: Applying butter, coconut oil, or any greasy substance can actually trap heat in your skin, making the burn worse. Instead, use aloe vera or a lightweight moisturizer to cool and hydrate your skin.
Myth #2: “A Hot Shower Will Help”
Truth: Hot water can further irritate sunburned skin and strip away natural moisture. Opt for a cool shower or a gentle bath to reduce heat and inflammation.
Myth #3: “Peeling Your Skin Helps It Heal Faster”
Truth: Peeling sunburned skin forcefully can cause irritation and even infection. Let your skin shed naturally and keep it moisturized to aid the healing process.
Myth #4: “You Can Only Get Sunburned on Sunny Days”
Truth: Up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds, meaning you can still get sunburned on cloudy days! Always wear sunscreen, even when it’s overcast.
Myth #5: “A Base Tan Protects You From Sunburn”
Truth: A tan is just damaged skin—it doesn’t protect you from further UV damage. The best way to prevent it is proper sun protection, not tanning.
Myth #6: “Drinking Water Alone Will Heal Sunburn”
Truth: Staying hydrated helps, but sunburned skin also needs topical care, like aloe vera and moisturizers, to heal properly.
Myth #7: “If You Don’t Feel Burned, You’re Fine”
Truth: Symptoms often appear hours after exposure, so you may already be burned before you feel it. Always take preventive measures, like sunscreen and protective clothing.
Myth #8: “Scrubbing Your Skin Will Remove the Burn”
Truth: Exfoliating or scrubbing sunburned skin can cause more irritation and prolong healing. Be gentle and avoid harsh scrubs until your skin recovers.
Myth #9: “Sunscreen Prevents All Sunburns”
Truth: Sunscreen helps, but it’s not a 100% shield. You still need to reapply every two hours, seek shade, and wear protective clothing for full protection.
Myth #10: “Sunburn Is Just Temporary—It Won’t Have Long-Term Effects”
Truth: Every sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Protecting your skin now helps keep it healthy in the long run.
Myth #11: “You Can’t Get Sunburned in the Water”
Truth: Water doesn’t block UV rays—it actually reflects them, increasing your sun exposure! While you may feel cool in the water, UV radiation can still penetrate and burn your skin. Plus, wet skin can be more vulnerable to burns. Always wear water-resistant sunscreen and reapply it after swimming.
Myth #12: “Sunscreen Prevents All Sunburns”
Truth: Sunscreen helps, but it’s not a bulletproof shield. Many people don’t apply enough or forget to reapply, reducing its effectiveness. Plus, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays. You still need shade, protective clothing, and sunglasses for full sun protection.
Myth #13: “A Base Tan Prevents Sunburn”
Truth: A tan is just damaged skin—it doesn’t offer real protection. At most, a tan provides SPF 2-4, which is not enough to prevent it. The best way to avoid burns is by using proper sun protection, not tanning.
Myth #14: “You Can’t Get Sunburned on Cloudy Days”
Truth: Up to 80% of UV rays penetrate clouds, so you can still get sunburned even when it’s overcast. Many people skip sunscreen on cloudy days, thinking they’re safe, but UV exposure is still happening. Always wear sunscreen, no matter the weather.
Conclusion
Sunburn is more than just a temporary discomfort; it poses serious long-term risks to your skin and overall health. Prevention is key, and taking simple precautions such as wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and staying hydrated can significantly reduce your risk. If you do get sunburned, prompt first aid and proper aftercare can help soothe your skin and speed up recovery. Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays today and enjoy a healthier, sun-safe future.
