White sand and blue beach, nothing can beat a summer escapade under the sun. However, it’s not all too good to be under the heat for quite sometime. As we all know, the sun emits Ultraviolet (UV) rays which can cause a skin condition called sunburns.

All, including dark skinned persons, are susceptible to sunburns. Sunburns appear to be red and swelling. Painful blisters may develop upon over exposure to UV rays. This usually happens if sun exposure lasted from 6 to 48 hours. After several days, your skin may begin to peel.

Common Causes

Ultraviolet rays are the main cause for sunburns. When the skin’s protective component, melanin, cannot anymore accommodate the amount of light exposure, sunburn then results. Light-skinned persons are more vulnerable, for they can obtain sunburns in just 15 minutes in midday sun while dark-skinned people can endure longer hours of exposure.

Medical science has now accepted that sunburns are no minor health issues. There have been reports of fatalities and significant disabilities due to acute sun exposure.

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Symptoms

Sunburns usually manifest within hours after prolonged sun exposure. Sunburn victims will start to feel pain in the skin and later on, redness may show on the affected skin. Swelling on the skin is common as well as peeling within three to eight days after exposure.

Long Term Complications

Although it may rarely happen, severe blisters of sunburns may complicate into malignant melanoma. Premature aging may also result as the sun can deteriorate the elasticity of the skin. Another possible ailment is Solar Keratoses, which manifests reddish patches that are sometimes precancerous.

The most serious known complication that can result from sunburns is skin cancer. Factors like skin pigmentation and longevity of sun exposure are to be considered in diagnosing skin cancer.

Lastly, UV rays and sun exposure can also produce cataracts in certain individuals.

Treatment

Cold compresses will always be good for burns. Apply them for the first 48 hours of your sunburn. Vinegar, aloe, baking soda, and cool oatmeal baths can also be effective home treatments to ease the discomfort.

Avoid applying petroleum jelly or lotions which can hold the heat intact the burned skin. However, moisturizing lotions can be relieving. To alleviate the pain and swelling, patients may be asked to take aspirin.

For unusual symptoms like fluid-filled blisters, fever, or dizziness, contact your nearest doctor for immediate medical assistance.

Prevention

Prevention is way better than treating sunburns. Sunscreens with different SPF levels are very effective to prevent UV exposures under the sun. Doctors often recommend sunscreens with 30 or higher SPF levels. For swimmers, look for water proof sunscreens to suit their sporting activities.

There is however time distinctions for the day in which people may know when to have a healthy sunlight exposure and when not. As much as possible avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Keep away reflectors, tanning beds, or sunlamps. These equipments generate high levels of UV emission.

For individuals who taking medication, they must pay attention to the effects and their respective side effects. Some types of medicines may cause bad effects on sunburns.