Sunburn affects the two outer layers of the skin, the epidermis and the dermis. Sunburn is caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun rays. The UVA type of radiation has a longer wavelength than the UVB type and can reach the deeper skin layer, resulting in acute blistering, but also in long-term sun damage of the skin like wrinkling, aging, and even skin cancer. However, UVB rays will also cause sunburn.Sun protection is the most efficient way to prevent sunburn. The strength of sunscreen lotions is quantified by the Sunscreen Protection Factor (SPF). The higher the SPF number (15 to 100), the more protection it provides. Physical and chemical sunscreens work completely differently. Both sunscreens are actually largely better than no sunscreens.
Chemical sunscreens, labeled “broad spectrum”, contain retinal palmytate & avobenzone and work like resistors if they only partially cover UVA, which is primarily thought to be responsible for melanoma, including melanoma in situ. However, it does not mean that it will totally protect from UVA and protect from melanoma.
Physical sunscreens, also called “mineral sunscreens“, contain mostly zinc and titanium, work like mirrors and reflect both UVA and UVB.
Sunscreen products should be reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming. Clothes do not protect well from UV exposure: for example, a white T-shirt allows for 20% of UV to pass through the fabric, and wet clothes reduce their protective effect even less.
Treatment of sunburn is not a cure, but will mitigate its stinging and pain.
– Pain relievers, like Tylenol or Advil
– Cooling with wet towels
– Moisturizers like Aloe Vera
– Stay well hydrated
– Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream for a more severe sunburn
– Do NOT pop blisters or rip off dead skin!
If you experience dizziness, confusion, nausea/vomiting, fever, severe headache or a racing heart with sun exposure, you might have a heat stroke. Call 911 to get immediate medical attention!