Preventing and Treating Sunburn Effectively : Your online pharmacy selection

What is sunburn?

Sunburn is an inflammatory reaction of the skin following excessive exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Symptoms can include redness, heat, itching, pain and, in severe cases, blistering. Sunburn can affect anyone, but fair-skinned people are particularly vulnerable.

How can I prevent sunburn?

Sunburn prevention is essential to protect the skin from short- and long-term damage. Here are a few measures to adopt:

• Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
• Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more 15 to 30 minutes before exposure to the sun. Reapply every two hours and after every swim or sweat.
• Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses and covering clothes.
• Seekshade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours.

How to treat sunburn?

If you get a sunburn, it's important to treat it immediately to relieve pain and minimize damage:

• Cool the skin by applying cold compresses or taking a cold water bath.
• Use moisturizers containing aloe vera or glycerine to soothe the skin. Avoid products containing alcohol, which can dry out the skin.
• Drink plenty ofwater to rehydrate, as sunburn can lead to dehydration.
• If necessary, take over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen, to reduce inflammation and pain.

When should you consult a doctor about sunburn?

It's advisable to consult a doctor if sunburn is accompanied by severe symptoms, such as:

• blistering over a large part of the body
• systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea or dizziness
• Intense pain that doesn't improve after a few days
• Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, pus, or red streaks moving away from the initial area.

By following these tips, you can not only prevent sunburn, but also treat it effectively if it does occur.

How can you tell the difference between sunburn and sun allergy?

Sunburn is characterized by red, painful skin that may peel after a few days, following excessive exposure to the sun. A sun allergy, on the other hand, manifests itself as an itchy rash or blisters that appear even after brief exposure to the sun. Solar allergies may require specific treatment, so if you suspect an allergy rather than a simple sunburn, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist.

Is it possible to get a sunburn on an overcast day?

Yes, it's possible to get sunburnt even on overcast days, as up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. That's why it's essential to apply sunscreen and take other sun protection precautions, even on cloudy days.

Can sunburn leave permanent scars?

In most cases, sunburn does not leave permanent scars. However, improper healing or lack of proper care, particularly in the case of severe sunburns with blistering, can lead to marks or changes in skin pigmentation. It is crucial to treat sunburns correctly and avoid further sun exposure during healing to minimize this risk.

Are children more susceptible to sunburn?

Yes, children's skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults', making them more vulnerable to sunburn. It's vital to protect children's skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing and by limiting their exposure to the sun, especially during the hours when UV rays are strongest.

What are the long-term consequences of repeated sunburn?

Repeated sunburn significantly increases the risk of developing long-term skin problems, including types of skin cancer such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. They can also accelerate skin aging, leading to early wrinkles, age spots and a less elastic skin texture. Preventing sunburn is therefore essential to maintaining healthy skin throughout life.