Burned by the sun: what can you do?

Sunburn is a common problem that can occur when the skin is exposed to UV radiation for too long, even after using sunscreen. Here are important considerations and steps you can take if your skin is burned by the sun:

Risk factors for sunscreen: The risk of sunburn is influenced by several factors, including:

1. Skin type: People with light skin burn faster than people with darker skin color.
   • Skin type 1: Milky white skin, red or light blonde hair, many freckles, burns quickly (5-10 minutes in the sun without protection).
   • Skin type 2: Pale skin, blonde to light brown hair, also burns quickly but can become slightly brown (10-20 minutes).
   • Skin type 3: Pale skin, dark blonde to dark brown hair, burns less quickly, brown easily (20-30 minutes).
   • Skin type 4: Tinted skin, dark brown to black hair, rarely burns, brown very easily (30-45 minutes).
2. Age: Children are more susceptible to sunburn due to their thin skin and longer term risk of skin cancer after frequent exposure.
3. Medicines and cosmetics: Some medicines and cosmetics can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause allergic reactions.
4. Scars: Fresh scars are more sensitive to UV radiation and should be extra protected to prevent discoloration.
5. Body parts: Parts of the body that are normally less exposed to the sun, such as upper arms, legs, back and abdomen, are more susceptible to sunburn.
6. UV index: The intensity of UV radiation varies depending on the season, time of day, and geographical location.

How do you recognize sunburn? 

Symptoms of sunburn may appear several hours after exposure to the sun and include:

• Red, glowing skin.
• Painful or swollen skin.
• Fluid blisters on the skin (in severe cases).
• Skin painting.

In severe cases, symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, headache and palpitations may also occur.

What can you do with sunscreen?

1. Remove from the sun: Go in immediately or look for shade to prevent further exposure to UV radiation.
2. Cool the skin: Use wet cloths, take a lukewarm shower or bath to cool the skin. However, avoid ice cold water to prevent hypothermia.
3. Gently dry: Gently dry the skin to avoid irritation.
4. Hydrate: Apply moisturizing cream, hydrocolloid cream or aftersun lotion to moisturize the skin and promote recovery.
5. Protect clothing: Wear light, loose clothing that does not rub and pinch the skin.
6. Painkilling: If necessary, you may take a painkiller such as paracetamol to relieve pain.
7. Leave blisters intact: Leave blisters intact as much as possible to reduce the risk of infections.
8. Avoid sunlight: Stay out of the sun for at least 3 days (longer in severe burning) to give the skin a chance to recover.

When to consult a doctor?

• In fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, severe headache, tiredness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting.
• In extensive sunburn covering large areas of the skin.
• In the formation of many blisters.
• In young children.
• If the skin has not recovered after 2 weeks.

Sunburn can cause serious health problems and sometimes requires medical attention, especially in children and severe symptoms. It is important to protect the skin from excessive exposure to UV radiation and respond in time to signs of sunburn.