Как пишется слово солнечный ожог

ожог солнечный

Вспомним пресловутое правило написания «о» и «ё» после шипящих. Только здесь уже отдельный подраздел — правописание слов с корнями -жог-/-жёг-. После его объяснения станет понятнее, как правильно писать: ожог или ожёг.

В чём основная сложность? При написании слова с -жог-/-жёг- нужно вспомнить, какая это часть речи и на какой вопрос она отвечает.

Для начала уясним важное правило выбора «о/ё» в глагольных формах:

В суффиксах глаголов, причастий и всех слов, образованных от глаголов, под ударением пишется буква «ё». Печёт, бережёт, выкорчёвывать, упрощённый, лишённый, ночёвка (отглагольное существительное от «ночевать»), тушёнка (от глагола «тушить»), жжёнка (от глагола «жечь»).

Автор жжёт. Мы обязательно зажжём.

В общем, глаголы любят букву «ё» или «е» рядом с шипящими в окончаниях (жжёшь, толчёте, стрижёте, скажешь, пишешь) и совершенно не дружат с буквой «о».

Теперь о выборе между —жёг-/-жог-. Если мы имеем в виду глагол, то нужно писать именно -жёг:

Ожечь(ся) — ожёг(ся)
Обжечь(ся) — обжёг(ся)
Отжечь(ся) — отжёг(ся).
Возжечь(ся) — возжёг(ся)

Существительные будут писаться с -жог-.

Разница между «поджог», «ожог» и «поджёг», «ожёг»

Поджёг — прошедшее время глагола «поджечь». Он (что сделал?) поджёг свой системный блок.
Поджог — существительное. Совершить (что?) поджог своего системного блока из-за проигрыша в «Косынку».

Ожёг — прошедшее время глагола «ожечь»:

1. Синоним «Обжечь» в значении «Причинить ожоги или боль чем-либо горячим».
2. Вызвать ощущение жгучей боли, жжения. Ожёг руку (что сделал?).

Ожог — существительное. Получил (что?) ожог руки.

Существительные пишутся с -жог-: изжога, поджог, ожог, недожог (оно существует, представьте себе!), пережог, разжог.
Глаголы пишутся с -жёг: поджёг, ожёг, недожёг, пережёг, разжёг и т. д.

Читать ещё: Колют или колят? Правильное спряжение глагола

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Что такое солнечный ожог?

Солнечный ожог кожи — это острая воспалительная реакция тканей на чрезмерное воздействие ультрафиолетовых лучей. Повреждение может быть поверхностным или глубоким. Изменения происходят на микроскопическом уровне, то есть патологически изменяются клетки кожи⁴.

С дерматологической точки зрения такой тип воспаления относится к острым фотодерматозам. В норме кожу защищает пигмент меланин, который также придает ей цвет. Его количество определяется генетикой и наследственностью. Поэтому в одинаковых условиях одни люди загорают, другие — «обгорают».

Симптомы и признаки солнечных ожогов

Симптомы солнечного ожога могут включать:

• покраснение, местное повышение температуры в области повреждения;
• отечность, боль в месте повреждения;
• образование небольших пузырьков с прозрачным содержимым, которые могут лопаться;
• повышение общей температуры тела;
• жжение;
• головные боли;
• зуд;
• жажда;
• чувство стянутости в месте покраснения;
• тошнота;
• резкая слабость;
• покраснение, боль, жжение глаз.

В тяжелых случаях человек может получить ожоги второй степени. При этом кожа повреждается до более глубоких слоев, развивается дисбаланс солей и жидкости в организме. На фоне обширного воспаления легко может присоединиться вторичная инфекция, возможен летальный исход из-за шока или обезвоживания.

Кто находится в группе дополнительного риска?

Некоторые люди от рождения более уязвимы перед солнечными лучами, чем другие. Это зависит от генетических особенностей, наследственности, сопутствующих заболеваний, а также возраста.

Лечение солнечных ожогов

Специфическое лечение нужно пострадавшим с обширной ожоговой поверхностью. К врачу также следует немедленно обратиться при стойком повышении температуры тела, нарушении сознания, обезвоживании.

В условиях медицинского учреждения применяют такие методы лечения солнечных ожогов¹:

• обезболивание с учетом тяжести состояния — парацетамол, ибупрофен, новокаин, морфин, трамадол;
• введение успокоительных препаратов при выраженном болевом шоке — транквилизаторы, нейролептики;
• инфузионная (дезинтоксикационная) терапия — капельницы с растворами солей, кристаллоидов, коллоидов для восполнения жидкостных потерь, предупреждения шока и судорожного синдрома;
• противовоспалительное лечение, профилактика/лечение вторичных инфекций — антибиотики широкого спектра действия (по показаниям), нестероидные противовоспалительные препараты, противогрибковые средства;
• ранняя профилактика осложнений со стороны сердечно-сосудистой системы — антиагреганты (ацетилсалициловая кислота, клопидогрель), допамин, препараты для контроля артериального давления;
• предупреждение проблем с желудком на фоне массивной терапии и возможного шока — ингибиторы протонной помпы (пантопразол, омепразол);
• местное лечение — очищение ран, наложение повязок, обработка растворами антисептиков и мазями (метилурацил, салициловая мазь, хлорамфеникол);
• симптоматическая терапия — в соответствии с рекомендациями врачей-консультантов;
• глюкокортикоидные гормоны (преднизолон, дексаметазон) — строго по показаниям;
• витаминотерапия — аскорбиновая кислота, тиамин, пиридоксин, цианокобаламин;
• переливание крови или ее компонентов при необходимости;
• по показанию — хирургическое лечение (удаление отмерших частей раны, пересадка кожных лоскутов, пластические операции);
• экстренная профилактика столбняка.

Объем лечебных мероприятий зависит от площади повреждения, самочувствия и симптомов у конкретного пациента. Лекарственные средства назначают также индивидуально, с учетом переносимости и сопутствующих заболеваний.

Большинство людей вылечивается от ультрафиолетового повреждения самостоятельно, так как ожоги редко превышают 2 степень. Больных в тяжелом состоянии переводят в реанимацию, где могут подключить к аппарату искусственной вентиляции легких¹.

Средства профилактики солнечных ожогов

Лучше не избавляться от полученной травмы, а предупредить ее появление. Профилактические меры нужно соблюдать не только летом в солнечную погоду, но и в пасмурные дни. В особой защите нуждаются люди с чувствительной светлой кожей.

Фототипы кожи и SPF-защита

Уязвимость кожных покровов перед ультрафиолетовым излучением определяется их фототипом. Светлокожие люди I-III типов подвержены повышенному риску получения солнечных ожогов. Это связано с меньшим содержанием пигмента меланина, который в норме блокирует ультрафиолетовое излучение.

Зная свой фототип, можно правильно подобрать солнцезащитные средства. При выборе следует ориентироваться на показатель SPF (Sun Protection Factor). Чем выше показатель этого фактора, тем эффективнее блокировка ультрафиолетовых лучей⁶.

Предпочтение лучше отдавать качественным средствам с доказанной эффективностью и безопасностью. Состав будет отличаться для жирной, нормальной и чувствительной (склонной к аллергии) кожи. Ни один солнцезащитный крем не останавливает УФ-излучение на 100 %.

Люди с темной и смуглой кожей также подвергают себя риску рака. Отсутствие ожога не означает, что кожные покровы не подвергаются воздействию ультрафиолетовых лучей. Многочасовое пребывание под открытым солнцем в знойную погоду может вызывать ожог даже у темнокожего человека.

Солнцезащитные кремы необходимы всем людям вне зависимости от фототипа и пола, просто разного уровня защиты. Мужчины, работающие под открытым небом, нередко получают обширные ожоги, которые потом инфицируются из-за несоблюдения гигиенических правил. То же самое касается детей раннего возраста и подростков, которые много времени проводят на улице.

Детей 1-4 лет с уязвимыми фототипами (I-III) необходимо обучать способам защиты от солнца как можно раньше. Перед поездкой в жаркие страны дополнительно проконсультируйтесь с педиатром по поводу использования солнцезащитных кремов. Нередко на них бывает аллергия, это нужно выяснить заранее.

Причины солнечных ожогов

Основная причина солнечного ожога — агрессивное воздействие ультрафиолетовых лучей. Они могут исходить от самого солнца или искусственных источников (солярии, ультрафиолетовые лампы). Кожа по-разному реагирует на лучи с разной длиной волны (единица измерения — нм). К воспалительной реакции чаще всего приводят спектры UVB и UVA⁴.

Существует 3 типа ультрафиолетового излучения, на которые покровы тела реагируют по-разному:

• UVA (320-400 нм) — проникает в глубокие слои кожи, повреждая зоны роста новых клеток. Легко достигают поверхности Земли, но слабее UVB почти в 1000 раз. Избыток UVA-воздействия вызывает дряблость, морщинистость, сухость кожи. Доказана способность UVA нарушать структуру клеток, иммунный ответ, движение крови по мелким сосудам.
• UVB (280-320 нм) — сильно повреждают преимущественно верхние слои кожи (эпидермис). До дермы попадает около 10% ультрафиолетовых лучей. Высокие дозы повреждают генетическую структуру (ДНК) клеток, что может привести к аутоиммунным реакциям или онкологическому заболеванию.
• UVC (100-280) — короткие ультрафиолетовые лучи, плохо достигающие поверхности Земли. Задерживаются в верхних слоях атмосферы. Но по силе считаются наиболее повреждающими.

UVA-излучение является основной причиной формирования повышенной чувствительности к солнечному свету. Избыток ультрафиолета принимает участие в развитии солнечной крапивницы, системной красной волчанки, фотодерматита, порфирии.

Факторы риска получения сильного ожога

Вероятность повреждения кожи повышается при наличии таких факторов риска:

• пребывание на улице с открытыми участками тела с 10:00 до 16:00;
• солнечная погода;
• близость к экватору;
• проживание на возвышенности: каждые 300 метров ультрафиолетовое излучение увеличивается на 4%;
• прием фотосенсибилизирующих препаратов, которые делают кожу более чувствительной перед действием ультрафиолетового излучения;
• нахождение в местах с истонченным озоновым слоем атмосферы;
• светлый цвет кожи;
• большое количество родинок на теле;
• светлые, рыжие волосы;
• голубые, серые глаза;
• регулярная физическая активность или работа на свежем воздухе без дополнительной защиты;
• применение лосьонов для загара;
• частое посещение соляриев;
• использование ультрафиолетовых ламп;
• избыточный вес;
• злоупотребление алкогольными напитками и психоактивными веществами;
• загар в естественных условиях — пляж, открытая местность.

Чтобы обезопасить себя от агрессивного воздействия ультрафиолета, кожа начинает вырабатывать больше меланина. Дополнительное количество пигмента создает загар, который не является признаком хорошего здоровья. Более темный пигментированный слой блокирует проникновение основной массы ультрафиолетового света. Но при длительном интенсивном облучении такой защиты недостаточно — развивается ожог.

Опасность солнечных ожогов

Регулярное обгорание на солнце в может привести к развитию следующих осложнений в будущем⁴:

•  преждевременное старение кожи (фотостарение);
•  появление глубоких морщин;
•  расширение подкожных мелких сосудов, которые становятся видны на щеках, носу, ушах;
• появление веснушек;
• повреждение сетчатки, роговицы, хрусталика глаза;
• обесцвечивание отдельных участков кожного покрова (солнечное лентиго);
•  предраковое изменение поврежденных солнцем структур (солнечный кератоз);
• повреждение генетического материала (ДНК) клеток может вызывать рак кожи — меланому⁵.

Классификация солнечных ожогов

Согласно международной классификации болезней (МКБ 10), повреждение вследствие ультрафиолетового воздействия является диагнозом. Заболевание классифицируют  по глубине повреждения кожи. Различают несколько степеней солнечных ожогов¹.

I степень. Ожоговый очаг располагается в пределах верхнего слоя кожи — эпидермиса. Повреждение поверхностное с признаками воспаления, позднее наблюдается шелушение. Заживление происходит самостоятельно в течение 10 дней. В некоторых случаях после выздоровления в ранее поврежденном участке временно остается осветленное пятно (депигментация).

II степень. Ожог называют дермальным (пограничным), так как затрагиваются более глубокие слои кожи (до сосочкового слоя дермы). Выражены симптомы воспаления — покраснение, отек, боль. Нарушается циркуляция крови по мелким сосудам, отек распространяется на подкожно-жировую клетчатку. Сальные и потовые железы, а также волосяные фолликулы остаются неповрежденными. Для заживления такой травмы требуется до 18-21 дня. Могут остаться послеожоговые рубцы, осветленные участки депигментации.

III степень (почти не встречается при солнечных ожогах). Сильно повреждаются все слои кожи, подкожно-жировая клетчатка, мышцы, связки, кости. Больной нуждается в срочном хирургическом лечении, так как самостоятельно такой дефект не может нормально зажить. После выздоровления практически всегда остаются рубцовые деформации, нарушается пигментация кожи.

Для постановки диагноза значение также имеет площадь полученной травмы. При небольших повреждениях пользуются «правилом ладони», площадь которой составляет примерно 1% поверхности всего тела человека. Ладонь дистанционно прикладывают к пораженному месту, чтобы примерно понять, сколько тканей пострадало от солнца¹.

Заключение

Солнечный ожог относится к доброкачественным видам острого повреждения кожи, которое обычно проходит без медицинского вмешательства. Но в редких случаях ожог бывает настолько серьезный, что больных госпитализируют в ожоговые центры для специфического лечения. Регулярное и интенсивное воздействие ультрафиолетовых лучей напрямую связано с ускоренным старением кожи, появлением морщин и пигментных пятен. Люди, не защищающие себя от повреждающего действия солнца, чаще сталкиваются с онкологией⁵. Появление солнечного ожога — не самая приятная ситуация, однако его можно предотвратить.

Sunburn
A sunburned neck
Specialty	Dermatology
Complications	Skin cancer
Risk factors	Working outdoors, skin unprotected by clothes or sunscreen, skin type, age
Prevention	Use of sunscreen, sun protective clothing

Sunburn is a form of radiation burn that affects living tissue, such as skin, that results from an overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, usually from the Sun. Common symptoms in humans and animals include: red or reddish skin that is hot to the touch or painful, general fatigue, and mild dizziness. Other symptoms include blistering, peeling skin, swelling, itching, and nausea. Excessive UV radiation is the leading cause of (primarily) non-malignant skin tumors,^[1][2] and in extreme cases can be life-threatening. Sunburn is an inflammatory response in the tissue triggered by direct DNA damage by UV radiation. When the cells’ DNA is overly damaged by UV radiation, type I cell-death is triggered and the tissue is replaced.^[3]

Sun protective measures including sunscreen and sun protective clothing are widely accepted to prevent sunburn and some types of skin cancer. Special populations, including children, are especially susceptible to sunburn and protective measures should be used to prevent damage.

Signs and symptoms[edit]

Typically, there is initial redness, followed by varying degrees of pain, proportional in severity to both the duration and intensity of exposure.

Other symptoms can include blistering, swelling (edema), itching (pruritus), peeling skin, rash, nausea, fever, chills, and fainting (syncope). Also, a small amount of heat is given off from the burn, caused by the concentration of blood in the healing process, giving a warm feeling to the affected area. Sunburns may be classified as superficial, or partial thickness burns. Blistering is a sign of second degree sunburn.^[4]

Variations[edit]

Minor sunburns typically cause nothing more than slight redness and tenderness to the affected areas. In more serious cases, blistering can occur. Extreme sunburns can be painful to the point of debilitation and may require hospital care.

Duration[edit]

Sunburn can occur in less than 15 minutes, and in seconds when exposed to non-shielded welding arcs or other sources of intense ultraviolet light. Nevertheless, the inflicted harm is often not immediately obvious.

After the exposure, skin may turn red in as little as 30 minutes but most often takes 2 to 6 hours. Pain is usually strongest 6 to 48 hours after exposure. The burn continues to develop for 1 to 3 days, occasionally followed by peeling skin in 3 to 8 days. Some peeling and itching may continue for several weeks.

Skin cancer[edit]

Ultraviolet radiation causes sunburns and increases the risk of three types of skin cancer: melanoma, basal-cell carcinoma and squamous-cell carcinoma.^[1][2][5] Of greatest concern is that the melanoma risk increases in a dose-dependent manner with the number of a person’s lifetime cumulative episodes of sunburn.^[6] It has been estimated that over 1/3 of melanomas in the United States and Australia could be prevented with regular sunscreen use.^[7]

Causes[edit]

Sunburn is caused by UV radiation from the sun, but «sunburn» may result from artificial sources, such as tanning lamps, welding arcs, or ultraviolet germicidal irradiation. It is a reaction of the body to direct DNA damage from UVB light. This damage is mainly the formation of a thymine dimer. The damage is recognized by the body, which then triggers several defense mechanisms, including DNA repair to revert the damage, apoptosis and peeling to remove irreparably damaged skin cells, and increased melanin production to prevent future damage.

Melanin readily absorbs UV wavelength light, acting as a photoprotectant. By preventing UV photons from disrupting chemical bonds, melanin inhibits both the direct alteration of DNA and the generation of free radicals, thus indirect DNA damage. However, human melanocytes contain over 2,000 genomic sites that are highly sensitive to UV, and such sites can be up to 170-fold more sensitive to UV induction of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers than the average site^[8] These sensitive sites often occur at biologically significant locations near genes.

Sunburn causes an inflammation process, including production of prostanoids and bradykinin. These chemical compounds increase sensitivity to heat by reducing the threshold of heat receptor (TRPV1) activation from 109 °F (43 °C) to 85 °F (29 °C).^[9] The pain may be caused by overproduction of a protein called CXCL5, which activates nerve fibers.^[10]

Skin type determines the ease of sunburn. In general, people with lighter skin tone and limited capacity to develop a tan after UV radiation exposure have a greater risk of sunburn. The Fitzpatrick’s Skin phototypes classification describes the normal variations of skin responses to UV radiation. Persons with type I skin have the greatest capacity to sunburn and type VI have the least capacity to burn. However, all skin types can develop sunburn.^[11]

Fitzpatrick’s skin phototypes:

• Type 0: Albino
• Type I: Pale white skin, burns easily, does not tan
• Type II: White skin, burns easily, tans with difficulty
• Type III: White skin, may burn but tans easily
• Type IV: Light brown/olive skin, hardly burns, tans easily
• Type V: Brown skin, usually does not burn, tans easily
• Type VI: Black skin, very unlikely to burn, becomes darker with UV radiation exposure^[12]

Age also affects how skin reacts to sun. Children younger than six and adults older than sixty are more sensitive to sunlight.^[13]

There are certain genetic conditions, for example xeroderma pigmentosum, that increase a person’s susceptibility to sunburn and subsequent skin cancers. These conditions involve defects in DNA repair mechanisms which in turn decreases the ability to repair DNA that has been damaged by UV radiation.^[14]

Medications[edit]

The risk of a sunburn can be increased by pharmaceutical products that sensitize users to UV radiation. Certain antibiotics, oral contraceptives, antidepressants, acne medications, and tranquillizers have this effect.^[15]

UV intensity[edit]

The UV Index indicates the risk of getting a sunburn at a given time and location. Contributing factors include:^[13]

1. The time of day. In most locations, the sun’s rays are strongest between approximately 10 am and 4 pm daylight saving time.^[16]
2. Cloud cover. UV is partially blocked by clouds; but even on an overcast day, a significant percentage of the sun’s damaging UV radiation can pass through clouds.^[17][18]
3. Proximity to reflective surfaces, such as water, sand, concrete, snow, and ice. All of these reflect the sun’s rays and can cause sunburns.
4. The season of the year. The position of the sun in late spring and early summer can cause a more-severe sunburn.
5. Altitude. At a higher altitude it is easier to become burnt, because there is less of the earth’s atmosphere to block the sunlight. UV exposure increases about 4% for every 1000 ft (305 m) gain in elevation.
6. Proximity to the equator (latitude). Between the polar and tropical regions, the closer to the equator, the more direct sunlight passes through the atmosphere over the course of a year. For example, the southern United States gets fifty percent more sunlight than the northern United States.

Because of variations in the intensity of UV radiation passing through the atmosphere, the risk of sunburn increases with proximity to the tropic latitudes, located between 23.5° north and south latitude. All else being equal (e.g., cloud cover, ozone layer, terrain, etc.), over the course of a full year, each location within the tropic or polar regions receives approximately the same amount of UV radiation. In the temperate zones between 23.5° and 66.5°, UV radiation varies substantially by latitude and season. The higher the latitude, the lower the intensity of the UV rays. Intensity in the northern hemisphere is greatest during the months of May, June and July—and in the southern hemisphere, November, December and January. On a minute-by-minute basis, the amount of UV radiation is dependent on the angle of the sun. This is easily determined by the height ratio of any object to the size of its shadow (if the height is measured vertical to the earth’s gravitational field, the projected shadow is ideally measured on a flat, level surface; furthermore, for objects wider than skulls or poles, the height and length are best measured relative to the same occluding edge). The greatest risk is at solar noon, when shadows are at their minimum and the sun’s radiation passes most directly through the atmosphere. Regardless of one’s latitude (assuming no other variables), equal shadow lengths mean equal amounts of UV radiation.

The skin and eyes are most sensitive to damage by UV at 265–275 nm wavelength, which is in the lower UVC band that is almost never encountered except from artificial sources like welding arcs. Most sunburn is caused by longer wavelengths, simply because those are more prevalent in sunlight at ground level.

Ozone depletion[edit]

In recent decades, the incidence and severity of sunburn have increased worldwide, partly because of chemical damage to the atmosphere’s ozone layer. Between the 1970s and the 2000s, average stratospheric ozone decreased by approximately 4%, contributing an approximate 4% increase to the average UV intensity at the earth’s surface. Ozone depletion and the seasonal «ozone hole» have led to much larger changes in some locations, especially in the southern hemisphere.^[19]

Tanning[edit]

Suntans, which naturally develop in some individuals as a protective mechanism against the sun, are viewed by most in the Western world as desirable.^[20] This has led to an overall increase in exposure to UV radiation from both the natural sun and tanning lamps. Suntans can provide a modest sun protection factor (SPF) of 3, meaning that tanned skin would tolerate up to three times the UV exposure as pale skin.^[21]

Sunburns associated with indoor tanning can be severe.^[22]

The World Health Organization, American Academy of Dermatology, and the Skin Cancer Foundation recommend avoiding artificial UV sources such as tanning beds, and do not recommend suntans as a form of sun protection.^[23][24][25]

Diagnosis[edit]

Differential diagnosis[edit]

The differential diagnosis of sunburn includes other skin pathology induced by UV radiation including photoallergic reactions, phototoxic reactions to topical or systemic medications, and other dermatologic disorders that are aggravated by exposure to sunlight. Considerations for diagnosis include duration and intensity of UV exposure, use of topical or systemic medications, history of dermatologic disease, and nutritional status.

• Phototoxic reactions: Non-immunological response to sunlight interacting with certain drugs and chemicals in the skin which resembles an exaggerated sunburn. Common drugs that may cause a phototoxic reaction include amiodarone, dacarbazine, fluoroquinolones, 5-fluorouracil, furosemide, nalidixic acid, phenothiazines, psoralens, retinoids, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, thiazides, and vinblastine.^[26]
• Photoallergic reactions: Uncommon immunological response to sunlight interacting with certain drugs and chemicals in the skin. When in excited state by UVR, these drugs and chemicals form free radicals that react to form functional antigens and induce a Type IV hypersensitivity reaction. These drugs include 6-methylcoumarin, aminobenzoic acid and esters, chlorpromazine, promethazine, diclofenac, sulfonamides, and sulfonylureas. Unlike phototoxic reactions which resemble exaggerated sunburns, photoallergic reactions can cause intense itching and can lead to thickening of the skin.^[26]
• Phytophotodermatitis: UV radiation induces inflammation of the skin after contact with certain plants (including limes, celery, and meadow grass). Causes pain, redness, and blistering of the skin in the distribution of plant exposure.^[11]
• Polymorphic light eruption: Recurrent abnormal reaction to UVR. It can present in various ways including pink-to-red bumps, blisters, plaques and urticaria.^[11]
• Solar urticaria: UVR-induced wheals that occurs within minutes of exposure and fades within hours.^[11]
• Other skin diseases exacerbated by sunlight: Several dermatologic conditions can increase in severity with exposure to UVR. These include systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyositis, acne, atopic dermatitis, and rosacea.^[11]

Additionally, since sunburn is a type of radiation burn,^[27][28] it can initially hide a severe exposure to radioactivity resulting in acute radiation syndrome or other radiation-induced illnesses, especially if the exposure occurred under sunny conditions. For instance, the difference between the erythema caused by sunburn and other radiation burns is not immediately obvious. Symptoms common to heat illness and the prodromic stage of acute radiation syndrome like nausea, vomiting, fever, weakness/fatigue, dizziness or seizure^[29] can add to further diagnostic confusion.

Prevention[edit]

The most effective way to prevent sunburn is to reduce the amount of UV radiation reaching the skin. The World Health Organization, American Academy of Dermatology, and Skin Cancer Foundation recommend the following measures to prevent excessive UV exposure and skin cancer:^[30][31][32]

• Limiting sun exposure between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, when UV rays are the strongest
• Seeking shade when UV rays are most intense
• Wearing sun-protective clothing including a wide brim hat, sunglasses, and tightly-woven, loose-fitting clothing
• Using sunscreen
• Avoiding tanning beds and artificial UV exposure

UV intensity[edit]

The strength of sunlight is published in many locations as a UV Index. Sunlight is generally strongest when the sun is close to the highest point in the sky. Due to time zones and daylight saving time, this is not necessarily at 12 noon, but often one to two hours later. Seeking shade including using umbrellas and canopies can reduce the amount of UV exposure, but does not block all UV rays. The WHO recommends following the shadow rule: «Watch your shadow – Short shadow, seek shade!»^[30]

Grapes[edit]

A 2022 study found that eating 60 grapes a day can stop you getting sunburn. Scientists found people who ate three-quarters of a punnet every day for two weeks were better protected against damage to the skin from ultraviolet light. Polyphenols found naturally in the fruits are thought to be responsible for the resistance.^[33]

Sunscreen[edit]

Commercial preparations are available that block UV light, known as sunscreens or sunblocks. They have a sun protection factor (SPF) rating, based on the sunblock’s ability to suppress sunburn: The higher the SPF rating, the lower the amount of direct DNA damage. The stated protection factors are correct only if 2 mg of sunscreen is applied per square cm of exposed skin. This translates into about 28 mL (1 oz)^{[failed verification]} to cover the whole body of an adult male, which is much more than many people use in practice.^[34] Sunscreens function as chemicals such as oxybenzone and dioxybenzone (organic sunscreens) or opaque materials such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide (inorganic sunscreens) that both mainly absorb UV radiation. Chemical and mineral sunscreens vary in the wavelengths of UV radiation blocked. Broad-spectrum sunscreens contain filters that protect against UVA radiation as well as UVB. Although UVA radiation does not primarily cause sunburn, it does contribute to skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Sunscreen is effective and thus recommended for preventing melanoma^[35] and squamous cell carcinoma.^[36] There is little evidence that it is effective in preventing basal cell carcinoma.^[37] Typical use of sunscreen does not usually result in vitamin D deficiency, but extensive usage may.^[38]

Recommendations[edit]

Research has shown that the best sunscreen protection is achieved by application 15 to 30 minutes before exposure, followed by one reapplication 15 to 30 minutes after exposure begins. Further reapplication is necessary only after activities such as swimming, sweating, and rubbing.^[39] This varies based on the indications and protection shown on the label—from as little as 80 minutes in water to a few hours, depending on the product selected. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following criteria in selecting a sunscreen:^[40]

• Broad spectrum: protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• SPF 30 or higher
• Water resistant: sunscreens are classified as water resistant based on time, either 40 minutes, 80 minutes, or not water resistant

Eyes[edit]

The eyes are also sensitive to sun exposure at about the same UV wavelengths as skin; snow blindness is essentially sunburn of the cornea. Wrap-around sunglasses or the use by spectacle-wearers of glasses that block UV light reduce the harmful radiation. UV light has been implicated in the development of age-related macular degeneration,^[41] pterygium^[42] and cataract.^[43] Concentrated clusters of melanin, commonly known as freckles, are often found within the iris.

The tender skin of the eyelids can also become sunburned, and can be especially irritating.

Lips[edit]

The lips can become chapped (cheilitis) by sun exposure. Sunscreen on the lips does not have a pleasant taste and might be removed by saliva. Some lip balms (ChapSticks) have SPF ratings and contain sunscreens.

Feet[edit]

The skin of the feet is often tender and protected, so sudden prolonged exposure to UV radiation can be particularly painful and damaging to the top of the foot. Protective measures include sunscreen, socks, and swimwear or swimgear that covers the foot.

Diet[edit]

Dietary factors influence susceptibility to sunburn, recovery from sunburn, and risk of secondary complications from sunburn. Several dietary antioxidants, including essential vitamins, have been shown to have some effectiveness for protecting against sunburn and skin damage associated with ultraviolet radiation, in both human and animal studies. Supplementation with Vitamin C and Vitamin E was shown in one study to reduce the amount of sunburn after a controlled amount of UV exposure.^[44]
A review of scientific literature through 2007 found that beta carotene (Vitamin A) supplementation had a protective effect against sunburn, but that the effects were only evident in the long-term, with studies of supplementation for periods less than 10 weeks in duration failing to show any effects.^[45] There is also evidence that common foods may have some protective ability against sunburn if taken for a period before the exposure.^[46][47]

Protecting children[edit]

Babies and children are particularly susceptible to UV damage which increases their risk of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers later in life. Children should not sunburn at any age and protective measures can ensure their future risk of skin cancer is reduced.^[48]

• Infants 0–6 months: Children under 6mo generally have skin too sensitive for sunscreen and protective measures should focus on avoiding excessive UV exposure by using window mesh covers, wide brim hats, loose clothing that covers skin, and reducing UV exposure between the hours of 10am and 4pm.
• Infants 6–12 months: Sunscreen can safely be used on infants this age. It is recommended to apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30+ sunscreen to exposed areas as well as avoid excessive UV exposure by using wide-brim hats and protective clothing.
• Toddlers and Preschool-aged children: Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30+ sunscreen to exposed areas, use wide-brim hats and sunglasses, avoid peak UV intensity hours of 10am-4pm and seek shade. Sun protective clothing with a SPF rating can also provide additional protection.

Artificial UV exposure[edit]

The WHO recommends that artificial UV exposure including tanning beds should be avoided as no safe dose has been established.^[49] When one is exposed to any artificial source of occupational UV, special protective clothing (for example, welding helmets/shields) should be worn. Such sources can produce UVC, an extremely carcinogenic wavelength of UV which ordinarily is not present in normal sunlight, having been filtered out by the atmosphere.

Treatment[edit]

The primary measure of treatment is avoiding further exposure to the sun. The best treatment for most sunburns is time; most sunburns heal completely within a few weeks.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following for the treatment of sunburn:^[50]

• For pain relief, take cool baths or showers frequently.
• Use soothing moisturizers that contain aloe vera or soy.
• Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help with pain.
• Keep hydrated and drink extra water.
• Do not pop blisters on a sunburn; let them heal on their own instead.
• Protect sunburned skin (see: Sun protective clothing and Sunscreen) with loose clothing when going outside to prevent further damage while not irritating the sunburn.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; such as ibuprofen or naproxen), and aspirin may decrease redness and pain.^[51][52] Local anesthetics such as benzocaine, however, are contraindicated.^[53] Schwellnus et al. state that topical steroids (such as hydrocortisone cream) do not help with sunburns,^[52] although the American Academy of Dermatology says they can be used on especially sore areas.^[53] While lidocaine cream (a local anesthetic) is often used as a sunburn treatment, there is little evidence for the effectiveness of such use.^[54]

A home treatment that may help the discomfort is using cool and wet cloths on the sunburned areas.^[52] Applying soothing lotions that contain aloe vera to the sunburn areas was supported by multiple studies,^[55][56] though others have found aloe vera to have no effect.^[52] Note that aloe vera has no ability to protect people from new or further sunburn.^[57] Another home treatment is using a moisturizer that contains soy.^[53]

A sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body. Drinking extra water is recommended to help prevent dehydration.^[53]

See also[edit]

• Sun tanning
• Freckles
• Skin cancer
• Snow blindness
• Chapped lips

References[edit]

External links[edit]

• Sunburn at Curlie

Sunburn
A sunburned neck
Specialty	Dermatology
Complications	Skin cancer
Risk factors	Working outdoors, skin unprotected by clothes or sunscreen, skin type, age
Prevention	Use of sunscreen, sun protective clothing

Sunburn is a form of radiation burn that affects living tissue, such as skin, that results from an overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, usually from the Sun. Common symptoms in humans and animals include: red or reddish skin that is hot to the touch or painful, general fatigue, and mild dizziness. Other symptoms include blistering, peeling skin, swelling, itching, and nausea. Excessive UV radiation is the leading cause of (primarily) non-malignant skin tumors,^[1][2] and in extreme cases can be life-threatening. Sunburn is an inflammatory response in the tissue triggered by direct DNA damage by UV radiation. When the cells’ DNA is overly damaged by UV radiation, type I cell-death is triggered and the tissue is replaced.^[3]

Sun protective measures including sunscreen and sun protective clothing are widely accepted to prevent sunburn and some types of skin cancer. Special populations, including children, are especially susceptible to sunburn and protective measures should be used to prevent damage.

Signs and symptoms[edit]

Typically, there is initial redness, followed by varying degrees of pain, proportional in severity to both the duration and intensity of exposure.

Other symptoms can include blistering, swelling (edema), itching (pruritus), peeling skin, rash, nausea, fever, chills, and fainting (syncope). Also, a small amount of heat is given off from the burn, caused by the concentration of blood in the healing process, giving a warm feeling to the affected area. Sunburns may be classified as superficial, or partial thickness burns. Blistering is a sign of second degree sunburn.^[4]

Variations[edit]

Minor sunburns typically cause nothing more than slight redness and tenderness to the affected areas. In more serious cases, blistering can occur. Extreme sunburns can be painful to the point of debilitation and may require hospital care.

Duration[edit]

Sunburn can occur in less than 15 minutes, and in seconds when exposed to non-shielded welding arcs or other sources of intense ultraviolet light. Nevertheless, the inflicted harm is often not immediately obvious.

After the exposure, skin may turn red in as little as 30 minutes but most often takes 2 to 6 hours. Pain is usually strongest 6 to 48 hours after exposure. The burn continues to develop for 1 to 3 days, occasionally followed by peeling skin in 3 to 8 days. Some peeling and itching may continue for several weeks.

Skin cancer[edit]

Ultraviolet radiation causes sunburns and increases the risk of three types of skin cancer: melanoma, basal-cell carcinoma and squamous-cell carcinoma.^[1][2][5] Of greatest concern is that the melanoma risk increases in a dose-dependent manner with the number of a person’s lifetime cumulative episodes of sunburn.^[6] It has been estimated that over 1/3 of melanomas in the United States and Australia could be prevented with regular sunscreen use.^[7]

Causes[edit]

Sunburn is caused by UV radiation from the sun, but «sunburn» may result from artificial sources, such as tanning lamps, welding arcs, or ultraviolet germicidal irradiation. It is a reaction of the body to direct DNA damage from UVB light. This damage is mainly the formation of a thymine dimer. The damage is recognized by the body, which then triggers several defense mechanisms, including DNA repair to revert the damage, apoptosis and peeling to remove irreparably damaged skin cells, and increased melanin production to prevent future damage.

Melanin readily absorbs UV wavelength light, acting as a photoprotectant. By preventing UV photons from disrupting chemical bonds, melanin inhibits both the direct alteration of DNA and the generation of free radicals, thus indirect DNA damage. However, human melanocytes contain over 2,000 genomic sites that are highly sensitive to UV, and such sites can be up to 170-fold more sensitive to UV induction of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers than the average site^[8] These sensitive sites often occur at biologically significant locations near genes.

Sunburn causes an inflammation process, including production of prostanoids and bradykinin. These chemical compounds increase sensitivity to heat by reducing the threshold of heat receptor (TRPV1) activation from 109 °F (43 °C) to 85 °F (29 °C).^[9] The pain may be caused by overproduction of a protein called CXCL5, which activates nerve fibers.^[10]

Skin type determines the ease of sunburn. In general, people with lighter skin tone and limited capacity to develop a tan after UV radiation exposure have a greater risk of sunburn. The Fitzpatrick’s Skin phototypes classification describes the normal variations of skin responses to UV radiation. Persons with type I skin have the greatest capacity to sunburn and type VI have the least capacity to burn. However, all skin types can develop sunburn.^[11]

Fitzpatrick’s skin phototypes:

• Type 0: Albino
• Type I: Pale white skin, burns easily, does not tan
• Type II: White skin, burns easily, tans with difficulty
• Type III: White skin, may burn but tans easily
• Type IV: Light brown/olive skin, hardly burns, tans easily
• Type V: Brown skin, usually does not burn, tans easily
• Type VI: Black skin, very unlikely to burn, becomes darker with UV radiation exposure^[12]

Age also affects how skin reacts to sun. Children younger than six and adults older than sixty are more sensitive to sunlight.^[13]

There are certain genetic conditions, for example xeroderma pigmentosum, that increase a person’s susceptibility to sunburn and subsequent skin cancers. These conditions involve defects in DNA repair mechanisms which in turn decreases the ability to repair DNA that has been damaged by UV radiation.^[14]

Medications[edit]

The risk of a sunburn can be increased by pharmaceutical products that sensitize users to UV radiation. Certain antibiotics, oral contraceptives, antidepressants, acne medications, and tranquillizers have this effect.^[15]

UV intensity[edit]

The UV Index indicates the risk of getting a sunburn at a given time and location. Contributing factors include:^[13]

1. The time of day. In most locations, the sun’s rays are strongest between approximately 10 am and 4 pm daylight saving time.^[16]
2. Cloud cover. UV is partially blocked by clouds; but even on an overcast day, a significant percentage of the sun’s damaging UV radiation can pass through clouds.^[17][18]
3. Proximity to reflective surfaces, such as water, sand, concrete, snow, and ice. All of these reflect the sun’s rays and can cause sunburns.
4. The season of the year. The position of the sun in late spring and early summer can cause a more-severe sunburn.
5. Altitude. At a higher altitude it is easier to become burnt, because there is less of the earth’s atmosphere to block the sunlight. UV exposure increases about 4% for every 1000 ft (305 m) gain in elevation.
6. Proximity to the equator (latitude). Between the polar and tropical regions, the closer to the equator, the more direct sunlight passes through the atmosphere over the course of a year. For example, the southern United States gets fifty percent more sunlight than the northern United States.

Because of variations in the intensity of UV radiation passing through the atmosphere, the risk of sunburn increases with proximity to the tropic latitudes, located between 23.5° north and south latitude. All else being equal (e.g., cloud cover, ozone layer, terrain, etc.), over the course of a full year, each location within the tropic or polar regions receives approximately the same amount of UV radiation. In the temperate zones between 23.5° and 66.5°, UV radiation varies substantially by latitude and season. The higher the latitude, the lower the intensity of the UV rays. Intensity in the northern hemisphere is greatest during the months of May, June and July—and in the southern hemisphere, November, December and January. On a minute-by-minute basis, the amount of UV radiation is dependent on the angle of the sun. This is easily determined by the height ratio of any object to the size of its shadow (if the height is measured vertical to the earth’s gravitational field, the projected shadow is ideally measured on a flat, level surface; furthermore, for objects wider than skulls or poles, the height and length are best measured relative to the same occluding edge). The greatest risk is at solar noon, when shadows are at their minimum and the sun’s radiation passes most directly through the atmosphere. Regardless of one’s latitude (assuming no other variables), equal shadow lengths mean equal amounts of UV radiation.

The skin and eyes are most sensitive to damage by UV at 265–275 nm wavelength, which is in the lower UVC band that is almost never encountered except from artificial sources like welding arcs. Most sunburn is caused by longer wavelengths, simply because those are more prevalent in sunlight at ground level.

Ozone depletion[edit]

In recent decades, the incidence and severity of sunburn have increased worldwide, partly because of chemical damage to the atmosphere’s ozone layer. Between the 1970s and the 2000s, average stratospheric ozone decreased by approximately 4%, contributing an approximate 4% increase to the average UV intensity at the earth’s surface. Ozone depletion and the seasonal «ozone hole» have led to much larger changes in some locations, especially in the southern hemisphere.^[19]

Tanning[edit]

Suntans, which naturally develop in some individuals as a protective mechanism against the sun, are viewed by most in the Western world as desirable.^[20] This has led to an overall increase in exposure to UV radiation from both the natural sun and tanning lamps. Suntans can provide a modest sun protection factor (SPF) of 3, meaning that tanned skin would tolerate up to three times the UV exposure as pale skin.^[21]

Sunburns associated with indoor tanning can be severe.^[22]

The World Health Organization, American Academy of Dermatology, and the Skin Cancer Foundation recommend avoiding artificial UV sources such as tanning beds, and do not recommend suntans as a form of sun protection.^[23][24][25]

Diagnosis[edit]

Differential diagnosis[edit]

The differential diagnosis of sunburn includes other skin pathology induced by UV radiation including photoallergic reactions, phototoxic reactions to topical or systemic medications, and other dermatologic disorders that are aggravated by exposure to sunlight. Considerations for diagnosis include duration and intensity of UV exposure, use of topical or systemic medications, history of dermatologic disease, and nutritional status.

• Phototoxic reactions: Non-immunological response to sunlight interacting with certain drugs and chemicals in the skin which resembles an exaggerated sunburn. Common drugs that may cause a phototoxic reaction include amiodarone, dacarbazine, fluoroquinolones, 5-fluorouracil, furosemide, nalidixic acid, phenothiazines, psoralens, retinoids, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, thiazides, and vinblastine.^[26]
• Photoallergic reactions: Uncommon immunological response to sunlight interacting with certain drugs and chemicals in the skin. When in excited state by UVR, these drugs and chemicals form free radicals that react to form functional antigens and induce a Type IV hypersensitivity reaction. These drugs include 6-methylcoumarin, aminobenzoic acid and esters, chlorpromazine, promethazine, diclofenac, sulfonamides, and sulfonylureas. Unlike phototoxic reactions which resemble exaggerated sunburns, photoallergic reactions can cause intense itching and can lead to thickening of the skin.^[26]
• Phytophotodermatitis: UV radiation induces inflammation of the skin after contact with certain plants (including limes, celery, and meadow grass). Causes pain, redness, and blistering of the skin in the distribution of plant exposure.^[11]
• Polymorphic light eruption: Recurrent abnormal reaction to UVR. It can present in various ways including pink-to-red bumps, blisters, plaques and urticaria.^[11]
• Solar urticaria: UVR-induced wheals that occurs within minutes of exposure and fades within hours.^[11]
• Other skin diseases exacerbated by sunlight: Several dermatologic conditions can increase in severity with exposure to UVR. These include systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyositis, acne, atopic dermatitis, and rosacea.^[11]

Additionally, since sunburn is a type of radiation burn,^[27][28] it can initially hide a severe exposure to radioactivity resulting in acute radiation syndrome or other radiation-induced illnesses, especially if the exposure occurred under sunny conditions. For instance, the difference between the erythema caused by sunburn and other radiation burns is not immediately obvious. Symptoms common to heat illness and the prodromic stage of acute radiation syndrome like nausea, vomiting, fever, weakness/fatigue, dizziness or seizure^[29] can add to further diagnostic confusion.

Prevention[edit]

The most effective way to prevent sunburn is to reduce the amount of UV radiation reaching the skin. The World Health Organization, American Academy of Dermatology, and Skin Cancer Foundation recommend the following measures to prevent excessive UV exposure and skin cancer:^[30][31][32]

• Limiting sun exposure between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, when UV rays are the strongest
• Seeking shade when UV rays are most intense
• Wearing sun-protective clothing including a wide brim hat, sunglasses, and tightly-woven, loose-fitting clothing
• Using sunscreen
• Avoiding tanning beds and artificial UV exposure

UV intensity[edit]

The strength of sunlight is published in many locations as a UV Index. Sunlight is generally strongest when the sun is close to the highest point in the sky. Due to time zones and daylight saving time, this is not necessarily at 12 noon, but often one to two hours later. Seeking shade including using umbrellas and canopies can reduce the amount of UV exposure, but does not block all UV rays. The WHO recommends following the shadow rule: «Watch your shadow – Short shadow, seek shade!»^[30]

Grapes[edit]

A 2022 study found that eating 60 grapes a day can stop you getting sunburn. Scientists found people who ate three-quarters of a punnet every day for two weeks were better protected against damage to the skin from ultraviolet light. Polyphenols found naturally in the fruits are thought to be responsible for the resistance.^[33]

Sunscreen[edit]

Commercial preparations are available that block UV light, known as sunscreens or sunblocks. They have a sun protection factor (SPF) rating, based on the sunblock’s ability to suppress sunburn: The higher the SPF rating, the lower the amount of direct DNA damage. The stated protection factors are correct only if 2 mg of sunscreen is applied per square cm of exposed skin. This translates into about 28 mL (1 oz)^{[failed verification]} to cover the whole body of an adult male, which is much more than many people use in practice.^[34] Sunscreens function as chemicals such as oxybenzone and dioxybenzone (organic sunscreens) or opaque materials such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide (inorganic sunscreens) that both mainly absorb UV radiation. Chemical and mineral sunscreens vary in the wavelengths of UV radiation blocked. Broad-spectrum sunscreens contain filters that protect against UVA radiation as well as UVB. Although UVA radiation does not primarily cause sunburn, it does contribute to skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Sunscreen is effective and thus recommended for preventing melanoma^[35] and squamous cell carcinoma.^[36] There is little evidence that it is effective in preventing basal cell carcinoma.^[37] Typical use of sunscreen does not usually result in vitamin D deficiency, but extensive usage may.^[38]

Recommendations[edit]

Research has shown that the best sunscreen protection is achieved by application 15 to 30 minutes before exposure, followed by one reapplication 15 to 30 minutes after exposure begins. Further reapplication is necessary only after activities such as swimming, sweating, and rubbing.^[39] This varies based on the indications and protection shown on the label—from as little as 80 minutes in water to a few hours, depending on the product selected. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following criteria in selecting a sunscreen:^[40]

• Broad spectrum: protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• SPF 30 or higher
• Water resistant: sunscreens are classified as water resistant based on time, either 40 minutes, 80 minutes, or not water resistant

Eyes[edit]

The eyes are also sensitive to sun exposure at about the same UV wavelengths as skin; snow blindness is essentially sunburn of the cornea. Wrap-around sunglasses or the use by spectacle-wearers of glasses that block UV light reduce the harmful radiation. UV light has been implicated in the development of age-related macular degeneration,^[41] pterygium^[42] and cataract.^[43] Concentrated clusters of melanin, commonly known as freckles, are often found within the iris.

The tender skin of the eyelids can also become sunburned, and can be especially irritating.

Lips[edit]

The lips can become chapped (cheilitis) by sun exposure. Sunscreen on the lips does not have a pleasant taste and might be removed by saliva. Some lip balms (ChapSticks) have SPF ratings and contain sunscreens.

Feet[edit]

The skin of the feet is often tender and protected, so sudden prolonged exposure to UV radiation can be particularly painful and damaging to the top of the foot. Protective measures include sunscreen, socks, and swimwear or swimgear that covers the foot.

Diet[edit]

Dietary factors influence susceptibility to sunburn, recovery from sunburn, and risk of secondary complications from sunburn. Several dietary antioxidants, including essential vitamins, have been shown to have some effectiveness for protecting against sunburn and skin damage associated with ultraviolet radiation, in both human and animal studies. Supplementation with Vitamin C and Vitamin E was shown in one study to reduce the amount of sunburn after a controlled amount of UV exposure.^[44]
A review of scientific literature through 2007 found that beta carotene (Vitamin A) supplementation had a protective effect against sunburn, but that the effects were only evident in the long-term, with studies of supplementation for periods less than 10 weeks in duration failing to show any effects.^[45] There is also evidence that common foods may have some protective ability against sunburn if taken for a period before the exposure.^[46][47]

Protecting children[edit]

Babies and children are particularly susceptible to UV damage which increases their risk of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers later in life. Children should not sunburn at any age and protective measures can ensure their future risk of skin cancer is reduced.^[48]

• Infants 0–6 months: Children under 6mo generally have skin too sensitive for sunscreen and protective measures should focus on avoiding excessive UV exposure by using window mesh covers, wide brim hats, loose clothing that covers skin, and reducing UV exposure between the hours of 10am and 4pm.
• Infants 6–12 months: Sunscreen can safely be used on infants this age. It is recommended to apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30+ sunscreen to exposed areas as well as avoid excessive UV exposure by using wide-brim hats and protective clothing.
• Toddlers and Preschool-aged children: Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30+ sunscreen to exposed areas, use wide-brim hats and sunglasses, avoid peak UV intensity hours of 10am-4pm and seek shade. Sun protective clothing with a SPF rating can also provide additional protection.

Artificial UV exposure[edit]

The WHO recommends that artificial UV exposure including tanning beds should be avoided as no safe dose has been established.^[49] When one is exposed to any artificial source of occupational UV, special protective clothing (for example, welding helmets/shields) should be worn. Such sources can produce UVC, an extremely carcinogenic wavelength of UV which ordinarily is not present in normal sunlight, having been filtered out by the atmosphere.

Treatment[edit]

The primary measure of treatment is avoiding further exposure to the sun. The best treatment for most sunburns is time; most sunburns heal completely within a few weeks.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following for the treatment of sunburn:^[50]

• For pain relief, take cool baths or showers frequently.
• Use soothing moisturizers that contain aloe vera or soy.
• Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help with pain.
• Keep hydrated and drink extra water.
• Do not pop blisters on a sunburn; let them heal on their own instead.
• Protect sunburned skin (see: Sun protective clothing and Sunscreen) with loose clothing when going outside to prevent further damage while not irritating the sunburn.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; such as ibuprofen or naproxen), and aspirin may decrease redness and pain.^[51][52] Local anesthetics such as benzocaine, however, are contraindicated.^[53] Schwellnus et al. state that topical steroids (such as hydrocortisone cream) do not help with sunburns,^[52] although the American Academy of Dermatology says they can be used on especially sore areas.^[53] While lidocaine cream (a local anesthetic) is often used as a sunburn treatment, there is little evidence for the effectiveness of such use.^[54]

A home treatment that may help the discomfort is using cool and wet cloths on the sunburned areas.^[52] Applying soothing lotions that contain aloe vera to the sunburn areas was supported by multiple studies,^[55][56] though others have found aloe vera to have no effect.^[52] Note that aloe vera has no ability to protect people from new or further sunburn.^[57] Another home treatment is using a moisturizer that contains soy.^[53]

A sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body. Drinking extra water is recommended to help prevent dehydration.^[53]

See also[edit]

• Sun tanning
• Freckles
• Skin cancer
• Snow blindness
• Chapped lips

References[edit]

External links[edit]

• Sunburn at Curlie