Types of Sunburn: Understanding the Severity

We need sunlight to stay healthy, but too much of it, especially without protection, can hurt our skin. The body naturally reacts to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation by being sunburned. People often think of sunburn as being "red skin," but it can cause anything from slight discomfort to significant blisters and long-term skin damage.

It's vital to know the different kinds and levels of severity of sunburn so you can do the correct thing, whether that means taking care of it at home or going to the doctor.

This blog post covers the types of sunburn, how to tell them apart, and how to heal quickly and safely. 
If you have persistent skin problems or complications such as sunburn or rashes, visit a skin care hospital in Noida for expert diagnosis and personalized treatment.

Call us now at +91 9667064100 for the best dermatologist consultation in the best hospital of Noida.

What is Sunburn?

Sunburn is the skin's reaction to too much ultraviolet (UV) light. UV rays hurt and kill skin cells when they get through the outer layer of your skin (epidermis). In response, the body sends more blood to the area that was burned, which causes the usual indicators of sunburn: redness, discomfort, warmth, and sometimes swelling.

People often think that sunburn only happens at the beach. You can become burnt when

• Going for a walk outside
• Taking care of plants
• Having your windows down when driving
• Sitting at a window that gets a lot of sun

Even a short amount of time in the sun without protection can hurt your skin, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Types of Sunburn

1. First-Degree Sunburn

• Affected area: Only the outermost layer of skin (epidermis).
• Symptoms: 

1. Redness
2. Mild swelling
3. Skin sensitivity
4. Peeling after a few days

• Healing time: Usually self-limiting; it goes away on its own in 3 to 7 days.
• Care tips: For comfort, use cool compresses and moisturizing lotion (like aloe vera), and make sure you drink enough water.

2. Second-Degree Sunburn

• Affected area:  It affects both the epidermis and the dermis (second layer of skin).
• Symptoms:

1. Painful blisters
2. Deep redness
3. Swelling
4. Moist or "wet" appearance of the skin

• Healing time: It may take 1 to 3 weeks to heal, and medical help is often needed.
• Care tips: Don't pop blisters. If the pain is intense or you see signs of an infection, consult a doctor.

3. Third-Degree Sunburn

• Affected area:  It affects all layers of the skin and is considered as full-thickness burn.
• How it happens: Very rare from natural sunlight exposure, but possible with long-term exposure to artificial ultraviolet sources (such as tanning beds or industrial UV lamps).
• Symptoms:

1. Charred, leathery, or white skin
2. Little or no pain due to nerve damage

• Healing time: Requires immediate emergency treatment, which may involve skin grafting.
• Note: This incident is a medical emergency. Seek immediate attention.
   
   

Symptoms of Sunburn

Symptoms of sunburn often do not appear right after being in the sun. Usually, symptoms like redness, pain, and warmth show up a few hours after exposure and worsen over the next 24 hours.

Symptoms:

• Pink or red color (less noticeable with dark skin)
• Hot or tight skin
• Pain, tenderness, or burning
• Swelling
• Peeling of the skin after a few days
• Itching

Severe Symptoms (Signs of Second-Degree Sunburn):

• Blistering
• Fever or chills
• Headache
• Nausea or weakness
• Dizziness or confusion (signs heat illness)

Rarely, symptoms of dehydration or sunstroke accompany sunburn and require treatment.

Causes of Sunburn

When your skin is exposed to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds, you suffer sunburn. Too much exposure hurts the skin cells, which causes inflammation, discomfort, redness, and peeling.

• Extended Sun Exposure: Spending a lot of time outside, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV radiation is greatest, dramatically increases your chance of getting sunburned.
   
• Sun Protection Avoidance: Failing to wear sunscreen (or wear one with an SPF lower than 30), skipping a wide-brimmed hat or helmet, or not wearing UV-protective eyewear can leave your skin prone to sun damage.
   
• Use of Tanning Beds: Tanning beds' artificial UV radiation can be just as harmful as natural sunshine. Frequent use of tanning beds increases the likelihood of serious sunburn, rapid aging, and skin cancer.
   
• High Altitude and Reflection: Ultraviolet radiation rises with altitude and is reflected by surfaces like water, snow, and sand. This implies that even when the weather feels cold or mild, you can still be exposed to significant UV rays.

Treatment for Sunburn

You can usually heal a light sunburn at home with simple therapies. If you have severe burns, intense erythema, or blisters, it is advisable to visit the best skin doctor in Noida.

What are the best methods for taking care of sunburn at home?

• Cool the Skin: Use a cool, damp towel on the area that hurts or soak in a cool bath. This cools you off and makes you feel better.
• Use moisturizers: To soothe and nourish the skin, use aloe Vera gel or a moisturizer that doesn't have a scent. Don't use products that are greasy or have strong scents, as they could irritate sensitive skin.
• Stay Hydrated: Sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water to avoid being dehydrated.
• Do Not Pop Blisters: If blisters form, avoid popping them. Allow them to recover spontaneously to lessen the risk of infection and minimize scarring.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect the sunburned area as it recovers. Wear loose, breezy clothing and stay in the shade whenever feasible.

When to Visit a Doctor

While most sunburns are mild and may be managed at home, certain signs may indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention. We recommend consulting a dermatologist for skin treatment in Noida if you experience any of these concerning symptoms.

• Blisters 
• Intense or worsening pain    
• Signs of infection including pus, increased erythema, or edema.
• Symptoms such as fever, chills, disorientation, or confusion.

These signs suggest that the skin injury may be more severe or complicated by infection. Consulting a qualified dermatologist ensures proper wound care, requisite prescription treatments, and professional guidance for swift and safe recovery.

Risk Factors for Sunburn

Anyone can get sunburned, but several factors can increase the likelihood. Knowing these can help you take better care of your skin and keep it safe.

• Having light skin, red or blonde hair, and blue or green eyes
• Living at high altitudes or near the equator
• Exposure to reflective surfaces like water, sand, or snow
• Taking medicines that increase sensitivity to light, like antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and retinoids
• Using tanning beds
• Failing to use sunscreen or wearing protective clothing

Knowing these risk factors can help you safeguard yourself.

Prevention for Sunburn

Avoiding sunburn is considerably easier than dealing with it afterward. Here are some great methods for protecting your skin:

• Avoid the sun: Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its greatest.
• Wear protective clothing: Wear long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking eyewear to protect your skin.
• Be cautious with medications: Some medications increase your sensitivity to the sun. If you are unsure, see your doctor or pharmacist.
• Avoid tanning beds: Artificial UV exposure is as harmful, increasing your risk of sunburn and skin cancer.
• Get Regular Skin Checkups: Set up yearly dermatological appointments to monitor changes in your skin and identify concerns early.

Schedule your appointment with the top dermatologist at the top hospital for your better understanding.

Conclusion

Your skin safeguards your body, so it is logical to reciprocate that protection. Several fundamental measures can be implemented to prevent, address, and manage sunburn. Maintaining your skin can prevent discomfort today and avert issues in the future, regardless of whether you are engaged in outdoor activities or routine tasks.

FAQs on Sunburn

Q: Can I get sunburned on a cloudy day or during the winter?

Ans: Yes. Clouds can block up to 80% of UV rays, but snow and water can reflect them, increasing exposure.

Q: Can dark-skinned individuals get sunburned?
Ans: Yes. People with darker skin can still get sunburned, even though redness is less visible. The signs include pain, peeling, or black spots on the skin. All skin types need protection from ultraviolet light.

Q: Is daily sunscreen application sufficient to provide all-day UV protection?
Ans: No. You need to put on sunscreen again every two hours, or more often if you're swimming, sweating, or drying off with a towel. Reapplying makes sure you stay protected all day.

Q: Can I use makeup or skincare products on sunburn?
Ans: Don't use makeup or products that have alcohol, retinoids. Use moisturizers that are gentle and don't have any scents, and talk to a doctor about safe alternatives.

Q: What products should be avoided after a sunburn?
Ans: Avoid petroleum jelly, alcoholic goods, and heavy ointments. Stick with calming substances like aloe vera.

Q: Do sunburns leave scars?
Ans: Mild burns rarely leave scars. Burns that are severe or infected can leave scars or discolouration.