Sunburn is a common, painful condition resulting from overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Despite the temporary glow a sunny day can bring, too much sun exposure can lead to serious skin damage, which can cause peeling, redness, and discomfort. In this article, we’ll explore sunburn, how it happens, and the best treatments to soothe and heal it.
Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a long beach day or looking for ways to care for your skin after sun exposure, here’s everything you need to know about managing sunburn.
What Causes Sunburn?
Sunburn is caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which penetrate the skin and damage skin cells. Two types of UV rays cause sunburn:
- UVA Rays: These penetrate deeper into the skin, causing premature aging and wrinkles.
- UVB Rays: These rays primarily cause sunburn and are the main culprits for skin damage.
Both types of UV rays can damage skin cells, resulting in a red, sore, and sometimes blistered appearance. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can reach your skin, which means it’s essential to take precautions no matter the weather.
What Causes Sunburn?
Common Symptoms of Sunburn
Sunburn symptoms can vary widely based on factors like skin type, the intensity of sun exposure, and the duration spent in the sun.
Generally, sunburn occurs in stages, with the initial signs appearing within hours and more serious symptoms developing over the following days. Below is a breakdown of the main symptoms and what they indicate about your skin’s condition.
Redness
One of the earliest and most visible signs of sunburn is redness, which indicates inflammation as your skin responds to the damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This redness can range from light pink to deep red or purple, depending on your skin type and the severity of the burn.
Redness can appear anywhere between 1-6 hours after sun exposure, intensifying within the first 24 hours. It’s essentially your body’s way of increasing blood flow to the damaged area, which helps with healing but also makes the skin more sensitive.
Pain or Tenderness
The affected skin often feels sore, tender, or even painful to the touch, especially in areas where the skin is thin or has less natural protection, such as the shoulders, nose, and back. This discomfort stems from the body’s immune response to UV damage, as inflammatory compounds flood the area, making the skin hypersensitive.
Peeling Skin
In some cases, even light contact, such as wearing clothes or taking a shower, can aggravate the pain. Pain from sunburn usually peaks within 6-48 hours, depending on the severity, and can persist for several days until the inflammation begins to subside.
Peeling Skin
Peeling is a later symptom, typically appearing a few days after the initial burn as the body begins to shed damaged skin cells. This process, known as desquamation, is a natural mechanism to rid the skin of dead or severely damaged cells, making way for new, healthier cells to replace them.
Peeling usually starts around areas that experienced the most sun exposure and can vary in intensity. While it’s tempting to pull off peeling skin, doing so can lead to irritation or even infection. It’s best to let the skin peel naturally and to use a hydrating lotion to alleviate dryness.
Swelling and Blisters
In cases of severe sunburn, the skin may swell and develop blisters. This condition, often referred to as “sun poisoning,” is a form of intense sunburn where the skin becomes swollen, painful, and blistered. These blisters are fluid-filled sacs that form as the skin attempts to protect itself from further damage by cushioning the injured cells.
Blisters should be handled with care—avoid popping or breaking them, as this increases the risk of infection and can prolong healing time. Swelling and blistering may require medical attention if they cover large areas or are accompanied by symptoms like fever or chills.
Headaches or Nausea
In severe cases, sunburn can lead to systemic symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms are generally due to dehydration, which often accompanies sunburn as the skin loses moisture through increased blood flow and inflammation.
Dehydration affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature, leading to headaches, dizziness, and a general feeling of being unwell. This condition can escalate to heat exhaustion if not managed promptly with hydration and rest. If these symptoms are present, it’s crucial to stay hydrated, rest in a cool environment, and monitor for any worsening signs.
Itching
As the skin begins to heal and new cells replace the damaged ones, you may experience an intense itching sensation. This itching occurs as a result of skin dryness, peeling, and the process of cell renewal.
Treatment for Sunburn
Scratching can irritate the skin further, so it’s best to apply a gentle moisturizer or aloe-based lotion to soothe the itch. Cool compresses or anti-itch creams may also help reduce the discomfort associated with this stage of healing.
Fever and Chills (In Severe Cases)
A particularly intense sunburn can cause symptoms similar to a fever, with elevated body temperature, chills, and even shivering. This phenomenon happens because the immune system has been triggered to respond to the sunburn as it would to an infection, sending inflammatory signals throughout the body.
When the burn is extensive, especially if it covers a large portion of the body, your system may struggle to maintain its regular temperature. It’s important to rest, stay hydrated, and consult a healthcare provider if these symptoms become intense or last for an extended period.
What is Sunburn Peeling?
Peeling is a natural response to sunburn, as your body removes dead, damaged skin cells and makes way for new, healthy cells.
While peeling is common, it’s essential to avoid picking at peeling skin, as this can cause infection and even scarring.
Tips for Managing Sunburn Peeling
- Moisturize Regularly: Apply a gentle, hydrating sunburn lotion or cream to keep the skin moisturized and prevent further irritation.
- Use a Mild Exfoliant: Once the sunburn has healed and is no longer painful, a mild exfoliant can help remove dead skin without causing harm.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps your skin stay hydrated, speeding up the healing process.
- Avoid Scratching: Scratching or picking at peeling skin can lead to infection or permanent scarring. It’s best to let it peel off naturally.
Treatment for Sunburn
While prevention is the best way to avoid sunburn, there are several treatments you can use to relieve the symptoms if you do get burned:
Cool Compresses
Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected area helps reduce redness and swelling. Use this technique for 10-15 minutes every hour, and be careful not to apply ice directly, as it can further damage the skin.
Hydrating Sunburn Cream and Lotion
Sunburn creams and lotions can provide quick relief. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, which soothes and hydrates, or chamomile, which reduces inflammation.
A good sunburn lotion will not only reduce discomfort but also prevent peeling by locking in moisture.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or aspirin, can help relieve pain and reduce swelling. These medications can be especially helpful if the sunburn is severe or covering a large area.
Use Moisturizing Creams
Moisturizing Creams
To reduce the appearance of peeling, apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizing cream. Avoid heavy, oily creams, which may clog pores and irritate sunburned skin.
Drink Plenty of Water
Sunburn can lead to dehydration, as the body loses moisture when it is exposed to extreme heat. Drinking water will not only help your skin heal but will also prevent additional discomfort from dehydration.
Avoid Further Sun Exposure
Sunburned skin is highly sensitive, so it’s essential to stay out of direct sunlight until it heals completely. If you must go outside, cover the sunburned area with loose clothing or a wide-brimmed hat, and always apply sunscreen.
How to Prevent Sunburn?
Prevention is essential when it comes to sunburn. Here are a few tips to protect your skin and enjoy sunny days safely:
Use Sunscreen Daily
Applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is the best defense against sunburn. Reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. For sensitive areas like your face, use a sunscreen designed for facial skin to avoid breakouts or irritation.
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
Wearing long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can significantly reduce your exposure to UV rays. Special sun-protective clothing with UPF ratings offers even more protection for sensitive areas.
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
Avoid Peak Sun Hours
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Avoid being outside during these hours or seek shade whenever possible.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping your skin hydrated from the inside out can help it better withstand sun exposure. Drinking water and consuming hydrating foods, such as fruits and vegetables, will support your skin’s health.
Plan Ahead
If you know you’ll be in the sun for an extended period, prepare by packing sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing. Having these items on hand will make it easier to avoid sunburn.
Conclusion
Sunburn may be a temporary condition, but its effects can have lasting impacts on skin health if not taken seriously. From choosing the right sunburn cream or lotion to applying cold compresses, there are plenty of ways to treat and soothe sunburned skin. Prevention, however, is always better than cure. By using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and staying hydrated, you can enjoy sunny days without risking your skin’s health.
