Sunburn first aid

Definition

Sunburn is from over-exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. While the symptoms are usually temporary (such as red skin that is painful to the touch), the skin damage is often permanent and can have serious long-term health effects, including skin cancer.

Considerations

Keep in mind:

• There is no such thing as a "healthy tan." Unprotected sun exposure causes premature aging of the skin.
• Sun exposure can cause first and second degree burns.
• Skin cancer usually appears in adulthood, but is caused by sun exposure and sunburns that began as early as childhood. You can help prevent skin cancer by protecting your skin and your children's skin from the harmful rays of the sun.

• Infants and children are especially sensitive to the burning effects of the sun.
• People with fair skin are more likely to get sunburn. But even dark and black skin can burn and should be protected.
• The sun's rays are strongest during the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The sun's rays are also stronger at higher altitudes and lower latitudes (closer to the tropics). Reflection off water, sand, or snow can intensify the sun's burning rays.
• Sun lamps can cause severe sunburn.
• Some medications (such as the antibiotic doxycycline) can make you more susceptible to sunburn.

References

Auerbach PS. Wilderness Medicine. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001.

Rakel P, ed. Conn’s Current Therapy 2005. 57th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2005.