Article last updated: October 15, 2024
Sunburns occur when your skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. These UV rays penetrate the outer layers of your skin and cause damage at the cellular level, specifically to the DNA in your skin cells. This damage triggers an inflammatory response, leading to the familiar symptoms of redness, pain, and in severe cases, blisters.
There are two types of UV rays that affect your skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are primarily responsible for premature aging and wrinkles. UVB rays, on the other hand, cause the surface burns and are the main culprit behind sunburn. Both types can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.
The body’s response to this damage is to increase blood flow to the affected areas, which is why sunburned skin often feels warm and looks red. Your immune system also kicks in to repair the damaged cells, which can result in peeling as the dead cells are shed.
Repeated sunburns can have serious long-term effects. The cumulative damage from UV exposure can accelerate the aging process, leading to wrinkles, age spots, and a loss of skin elasticity. More critically, it can increase the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, which is the most dangerous form.
So, you’ve got a sunburn. What now? The first thing you need to do is get out of the sun! Find shade or head indoors to prevent further damage. Next, cool the skin with a cold shower or a cool, damp cloth. Hydration is key – drink plenty of water to help your body recover. Lastly, avoid tight clothing and anything that might irritate your sensitive skin. It’s all about being gentle and giving your skin the TLC it needs.
Mother Nature has your back when it comes to soothing sunburn. Here are some tried-and-true home remedies:
Sometimes, home remedies aren’t enough, and that’s where over-the-counter treatments come in. Here are some essentials:
When dealing with sunburn, it’s crucial to avoid certain actions and products that can exacerbate the condition. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of, listed from the most relevant to the most obscure:
While a hot shower might seem relaxing, it can further dry out and irritate already sensitive skin. The heat can strip away natural oils and moisture, leading to increased discomfort and prolonged healing time. Instead, opt for cool or lukewarm showers to soothe your skin without causing additional damage.
It might be tempting to scratch itchy sunburned skin or pick at peeling areas, but doing so can lead to infection and scarring. Scratching can introduce bacteria into the damaged skin, increasing the risk of infection. Additionally, picking at peeling skin can cause further trauma and delay the healing process. Instead, keep your hands off and let your skin heal naturally.
While it may seem like a good idea to moisturize with oil-based products, these can trap heat in your skin and worsen the burn. Products like petroleum jelly or heavy creams can create a barrier that prevents heat from escaping, exacerbating the pain and inflammation. Opt for water-based or aloe vera gels that provide hydration without trapping heat.
After getting sunburned, it’s important to avoid further sun exposure until your skin has fully healed. Additional UV exposure can intensify the damage and increase pain and redness. If you need to be outside, cover up with protective clothing, seek shade, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent further harm.
Using harsh soaps or exfoliants on sunburned skin can strip away essential oils and further irritate your skin. These products can disrupt the skin’s natural healing process and cause additional dryness and discomfort. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that are kind to sensitive skin.
Avoid using products that contain alcohol, such as certain toners and astringents, as they can dry out and irritate your sunburned skin. Alcohol can further dehydrate your skin, exacerbating the burn and making the healing process more uncomfortable. Opt for soothing, alcohol-free alternatives that hydrate and calm the skin.
The best way to deal with sunburn is to prevent it from happening in the first place. This starts with using sunscreen diligently. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outside, and remember to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
In addition to sunscreen, wearing protective clothing can make a significant difference. Opt for wide-brimmed hats that shield your face, ears, and neck, and invest in sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays to protect your eyes and the sensitive skin around them. Long-sleeved shirts and pants made from tightly woven fabrics offer an additional layer of defense against harmful rays.
Seeking shade is another effective strategy, particularly during peak sun hours from 10 AM to 4 PM when UV radiation is strongest. Whether you’re at the beach, park, or just walking around town, take breaks under trees, umbrellas, or canopies to reduce your exposure.
Finally, staying informed about the daily UV index can help you plan your outdoor activities more safely. The UV index provides a forecast of the expected risk of overexposure to UV radiation, with higher values indicating a greater risk. On days with high UV levels, take extra precautions, such as applying more sunscreen, wearing additional protective clothing, or limiting your time outdoors.
