International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology
SUNBURN
What is a sunburn?
A sunburn is caused by the ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight (or sometimes from a sunbed). With too much exposure to UV, your skin may become red and painful, and if the overexposure is excessive, your skin may later peel or blister. Your skin goes red, because the small blood vessels in the skin dilate and more blood flows through the skin.
Who is at risk of sunburn?
If you have fair skin or red hair you are likely to burn more quickly than people who tan easily or have a naturally dark skin.
When does sunburn happen?
Sunburn does not only happen in hot weather. A breeze, cloudy sky, or swimming may make you feel cooler, but UV rays can still damage your skin. You are most at risk for developing sunburn around the middle of the day, when the sun is highest in the sky.
Avoiding sunburn |
You can reduce your chances of sunburn by following these simple tips: |
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Treating sunburn |
General advice for treating a sunburn is as follows: |
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SUNBURN
Prof. Brian Diffey
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom