Sunburn is one of the common skin conditions that occurs during summer and is caused by excessive exposure to UV rays. It can cause redness, itching, and swelling, which gives a sense of irritation.

What is Sunburn?

When the harsh ultraviolet rays of the sun come in continuous contact with the skin it causes sunburn.

Sunburn is red, painful, and damaged skin that is caused due to the ultraviolet rays of the sun, or exposure to UV light from artificial sources. It is bit different from Acne in summer

Sunburn can cause premature skin aging and skin cancer.

Degrees of Sunburn

The severity of sunburn depends on the skin type, UV index, and the duration of time you are in the sun. The different degrees of sunburn are as follows:

First-degree Sunburn

This is a mild stage where the first layer or outer layer of your skin is damaged. First-degree sunburn is healed with home remedies and precautions.

Second-degree Sunburn

When the dermis, or the middle section of your skin is damaged it is called second-degree sunburn. It takes a few weeks to heal and you may feel itching and develop blisters on your skin.

Third-degree Sunburn

Third-degree sunburn is usually rare and the entire layer of your skin is damaged, including the fat beneath the skin. In extreme cases, it can damage the nerves or cause sunburn allergy with extreme rashes and inflammation of the skin. It is mostly caused due to chemical burns and not primarily by the sun's rays.

Causes of Sunburn

The causes of sunburn are as follows:

• Sunburn is primarily caused by ultraviolet rays which are of two types UVA and UVB. Both types are harmful to the skin.
• The intensity of the UV rays is also a factor that can cause damage. The severity of the sunburn is measured by the time of the day, cloud coverage, altitude, and closeness to the equator.
• Use of tanning beds, or artificial UV lamps without sunscreen.
• Areas with excessive ozone depletion or heat waves allow more penetration of UV rays.
• Not using a broad-spectrum sunburn lotion can cause first-degree sunburn.
• Antibiotics, drugs for acne, and anti-inflammation make the skin sensitive and more prone to sunburns.

Symptoms of Sunburn

The different degrees of sunburn show different symptoms which are described below:

First-degree

• Redness and itching sensation
• Swelling
• Pain or tenderness
• Skin feels hot or burning sensation
• Headache and Nausea ( in extreme cases)

Second-degree sunburn

• Extremely sunburn
• Blisters
• White discoloration of the skin-damaged
• Large parts of the skin are prone to inflammation
• Pain and fatigue
• Fever and headache
• Muscle cramps

Third-degree sunburn

• Leathery looking burn
• Numb skin
• While pale skin color
• Shock and heat strokes
• High fever with chills
• Nausea and fatigue
• Fast breathing
• Dizziness

When to See a Doctor

A sunburned face can cause problems, may affect your appearance, and progress to premature aging or skin cancer if left untreated, so you must visit a doctor if you are experiencing severe issues like:

• Signs of sunburn allergy, like persistent itching and inflammation
• Fever, dizziness, or frequent headaches even if you are not exposed to UV rays
• Infection or accumulation of pus within the skin which causes increased redness and pain.

Treatment of Sunburn

Sunburn treatment in Dwarka depends on the degree, severity, and type of skin. Some of them are as follows:

• Take a cold shower bath to heal the burning sensation. It is effective in case of first-degree burns.
• Use a good quality sunburn lotion that contains ingredients like Aloe Vera, and calamine which have soothing properties.
• In case of severe sunburn, medications like ibuprofen and creams like Avene Cicalfate, and Bioderma Cicabio help to heal the pain and swelling.
• Wear loose and breathable clothes that allow skin to heal.
• Staying indoors and avoiding the damaged area from direct exposure to UV rays.

What not to do while treating sunburn

Skin specialists suggest following preventive measures while treating sunburn.

• Application of ice directly on the damaged skin, as it might increase swelling and redness
• Avoid popping the blisters as it can cause infections.
• Eliminate harsh skin care products like exfoliants, scrubs, alcohol-based toners and serums, and petroleum-based gels or creams.

Complications of Sunburn

Frequent sunburns or third-degree sunburn can cause complications like:

• Premature skin aging includes dark spots, freckles, and wrinkles on the skin.
• Eye damage which can cause cataracts
• Skin cancer

Prevention of Sunburn

You can prevent sunburn or reduce the risk of skin damage by following certain measures:

• Application of broad-spectrum sunscreen every day to protect skin against harsh UVA and UVB rays. Skin care experts recommend using SPF 50+ sunscreens and applying it for 30 minutes before stepping out.
• Limiting sun exposure between 10 am to 4 pm as radiation of UV rays is strongest during these hours.
• Wearing long-sleeved clothes made of good quality cotton, using sunglasses and hats when exposed to sunlight.
• Drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Applying gentle, water-based, and fragrance-free moisturizer that helps to restore the skin barrier.

Sunburns can be overwhelming as it affects your skin and your appearance. Opting for the correct solution at the right time is necessary because prominent sunburns can cause long-term problems like skin cancer or premature aging. At Skindecor, top skin doctors in Delhi provide customized solutions and treatment plans based on your skin type. Our skin specialists use advanced technology and treatment options that help your skin recover and bloom again. Take the first step to boost your confidence by visiting us or booking your consultation today!