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Sunburn
Mild
Sunburn is skin damage caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or other UV sources. It causes red, warm, tender, or painful skin and may produce blisters followed by peeling. Symptoms can develop several hours after exposure and may become more noticeable during the following day. Repeated sunburn increases the risk of premature skin aging and skin cancer.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Most sunburns are mild and can be managed with supportive care, but severe burns require medical assessment. Seek prompt care for extensive blistering, severe pain, significant swelling, fever, chills, dehydration, dizziness, or worsening symptoms. Emergency evaluation is needed for confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, difficulty breathing, or other signs of serious illness.
Symptoms
2
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Sunburn is skin damage caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or other UV sources. It causes red, warm, tender, or painful skin and may produce blisters followed by peeling. Symptoms can develop several hours after exposure and may become more noticeable during the following day. Repeated sunburn increases the risk of premature skin aging and skin cancer.
Symptoms 2
Brittle Nails
Sudden Confusion
Causes 1
Sunburn occurs when exposure to ultraviolet radiation exceeds the skin's ability to protect itself with melanin. Both UVA and UVB radiation can damage skin cells. Exposure may come from direct sunlight, reflected sunlight from surfaces such as water or snow, or artificial sources such as tanning lamps. Certain medicines and medical conditions that cause photosensitivity can make the skin more susceptible to sunburn.
Genetics
Risk Factors
Risk increases with prolonged or intense UV exposure, especially during periods when the sun is strongest. Infants and children are particularly susceptible, and people with lighter skin generally burn more easily, although darker skin can also develop sunburn and requires protection. High altitude, reflective surfaces, tanning devices, photosensitizing medicines, and conditions such as lupus can increase susceptibility.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Sunburn is usually diagnosed by examining the affected skin and reviewing the timing and amount of sun or ultraviolet exposure. A healthcare professional may assess redness, tenderness, swelling, blistering, and the extent of the affected area. Severe cases may require evaluation for dehydration, heat illness, infection, or other complications, particularly when extensive blistering or systemic symptoms are present.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Sunburn can be reduced by limiting direct sun exposure, especially when UV levels are high, and by seeking shade or wearing protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen according to its label and reapply as directed, particularly after swimming or sweating
Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, which also expose skin to damaging ultraviolet radiation
Prevention Guidance
Sunburn can be reduced by limiting direct sun exposure, especially when UV levels are high, and by seeking shade or wearing protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen according to its label and reapply as directed, particularly after swimming or sweating. Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, which also expose skin to damaging ultraviolet radiation.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Water
Prevent dehydration
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins
Vegetables
Support recovery
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen dehydration
Excess Caffeine
May worsen dehydration
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Skin damage caused by excessive sun exposure.
Redness, pain, and peeling skin.
Repeated sunburns may increase skin cancer risk.
Use sunscreen and protective clothing.
Cool compresses and hydration may help.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.