Sunburn can make your skin age prematurely. See how you can prevent it and treat it when it occurs

Sunburn is skin damage that usually appears after prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or artificial sources. Sunburn causes the skin to become red, warm or hot, painful, sore and tender. After some few days, the skin may start to peel and flake. Typically, healing takes about seven days and it may take several days or longer for it to eventually fade.

Is sunburn a serious condition?

The condition is usually mild and short-term but intense and repeated exposure to the sun can increase the risk of certain skin conditions like wrinkled and dry skin, rough spots, dark spots and some types of diseases like skin cancer. It can also damage the eyes.

Who can have the condition?

Anyone who is exposed to UV light is at risk but certain persons are at a greater risk, they include:

• Persons who are fair complexioned or have a light skin
• Persons with a family history of skin cancer
• Persons who have many skin moles
• Persons who are only exposed to intense sun occasionally

What should I do when I have sunburn?

Once you notice sunburn, you should do the following:

• Get out of the sun immediately and stay in a cool, shady place
• Have a cold bath. This will cool the skin
• Apply a moisturizing lotion containing aloe vera to soothe your skin
• Drink a lot of water to prevent dehydration
• Protect the burnt area from the sun by covering it up or staying indoors until it heals

Do I need to see a doctor for the condition?

Sunburn is usually mild and can be treated effectively at home, however if a large area of skin is burnt and you notice other symptoms like blisters, drainage from the blisters, increasing pain and swelling, you should see your doctor.

How can I prevent sunburn?

You can do so by:

Applying sunscreen (with at least SPF of 15) on your skin even on cool or cloudy days

Wearing suitable clothing

Wearing sunshades