Sunburn occurs when skin is exposed to the sun with or without protection from an SPF lotion or ultra-violet (UV) resistant clothing. The amount of time it takes for skin to burn varies based on each person's unique skin type. Those with fair skin will burn more quickly compared to people with darker skin. Because of the dangers associated with sunburned skin, it's important to avoid getting sunburned in the first place.
Signs
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicates that the first signs of sunburn may not appear for several hours and perhaps even up to 24 hours following sun exposure. The skin will be red, warm and tender to the touch. In some cases blisters may develop in the hours or days following exposure. Sun poisoning is a severe reaction that can be characterized by fevers, chills, nausea or a rash. In the days following a sunburn, a person's skin will begin peeling.
First-Aid Relief
To treat sunburn, NIH recommends taking a cool shower, soaking in a cool bath or placing wet, cold compresses on the burns for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day. Adding baking soda to water can help reduce pain. Moisturize burned skin with a fragrance-free skin lotion to keep it hydrated and ease pain. Covering blisters with dry first-aid bandages can help prevent infection.
Medication
For painful sunburn, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can help ease discomfort. Do not use medicated products like benzocaine and lidocaine. Also avoid petroleum jelly because it forms a barrier on the skin and holds in heat.
For Children
The Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF) reports that young skin heals faster than older skin. However, kids are just as susceptible to sunburn and its effects as adults and need to be protected from the sun's harmful rays. The SCF says "one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles a person's chances of developing melanoma later in life." Treat a baby, 1 year and under, with a sunburn as an emergency and call his pediatrician. For a baby over a year old, call her doctor if she develops blisters, lethargy or fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit. For relief, bathe the child in a cool bath. Use a light moisturizer like calamine lotion but do not rub it into the skin. If the child is in pain, stop applying the lotion. Do not use lotion containing an antihistamine. Using alcohol can over-cool the skin.
The Risks
It's crucial to treat sunburns like any serious injury or health problem. Health Central, a website that features content from Harvard Health Publications, reports that sun poisoning can cause a fever, infection, nausea, headaches and dizziness. It also can cause fluid loss and an electrolyte imbalance. To avoid too much fluid loss, be sure to stay hydrated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that 65 to 90 percent of melanomas are caused by exposure to UV rays or sunlight.
