Does your skin get sunburned? Let's learn exactly what sunburn is!

After playing at the beach, playing cricket, or doing some gardening, does your skin become red, painful, and itchy when you touch it? Sometimes, we can experience this even when we go out for our daily chores or even when we go out for lunch. Simply put, this is what we call sunburn, or as everyone knows, sunburn . This happens when our skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Although this may seem like a small thing, if it continues, it can cause premature aging of the skin and skin cancer. Therefore, it is very important that we understand this and protect our skin.

What are the main types of sunburn?

Doctors divide sunburn into several types depending on the extent of damage to our skin. However, there are two types that we commonly see.

1. First-degree sunburn: This only damages the top layer of our skin. To be precise, the skin becomes red, slightly swollen, and painful to the touch. This usually heals on its own within a few days to a week.

2. Second-degree sunburn: This involves damage to the layer beneath the skin (dermis). In addition to redness, blisters filled with water begin to form. This condition can take several weeks to heal and may sometimes require medical treatment.

There is also a type of burn called a third-degree sunburn, but it is rarely caused by the sun. It is a more serious burn, usually caused by fire or chemicals. It is a condition that requires emergency medical treatment.

What are the symptoms of a sunburn?

The symptoms of a sunburn vary depending on its severity. Sometimes the skin may feel like it's on fire. It may also be painful if clothing rubs against the skin. Let's take a look at how these symptoms vary depending on the type.

What are the causes of sunburn?

The main cause is ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. There are two main types of these: UVA and UVB. Both types can burn our skin. Although anyone can get a sunburn, certain factors increase the risk.

• Time in the sun: Obviously, the longer you stay in the sun, the greater the risk.
• Time of day: The sun is usually strongest from 10 am to 4 pm.
• Certain medications: Some medications you take, for example, some antibiotics, pain relievers (NSAIDs), retinoids for skin conditions, and some heart medications, can make your skin sensitive to the sun.
• Skin type and color: People with pale, light skin generally develop sunburn more easily.
• Location: Because we live close to the equator, our country receives more sunlight. Also, the effects of UV rays are greater in mountainous areas.
• Use of tanning beds: The use of devices that artificially tan the skin is also a major cause of sunburn and skin cancer.

What are some home remedies for sunburn?

Most of the time, we can manage a minor first-degree and second-degree sunburn at home. But remember, if these treatments don't help or if the condition is severe, you should definitely see a doctor.

1. Cool the skin: Get out of the sun as soon as possible and take a cool shower. Or, apply a clean cloth soaked in cold water to the burned area for a while.

2. Moisturize the skin: Applying aloe vera gel is very good. It reduces inflammation and provides a cooling effect. Hydrocortisone cream, which can be purchased at the pharmacy, can also help reduce redness and pain.

3. Pain relief: Paracetamol or other painkillers (NSAIDs) can be taken as directed by a doctor to reduce pain and swelling.

4. Drink plenty of water: A sunburn can cause dehydration, so drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day.

5. What to do about blisters? This is very important . If you have blisters on your skin, do not pop them for any reason . Doing so increases the risk of infection. Let them heal on their own.

6. Protect your skin: Avoid exposing the burned area to the sun again until it heals. If you do go outside, wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the area well.

When should you see a doctor?

Although most sunburns can be treated at home, in some cases, immediate medical attention is necessary. If you or your child has any of the following symptoms, go to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU) or see a doctor immediately.

Long-term effects of sunburn and skin cancer risk

The pain of a sunburn may go away in a few days. But the damage to our skin cells doesn't go away. Simply put, UV rays damage the DNA inside our skin cells. While our bodies can repair this damage to some extent, the damage accumulates and becomes permanent when we continue to burn in the sun.

Other problems that can arise from continuous sunburn:

• Premature skin aging: Skin blemishes, brown spots, wrinkles, and sagging skin can occur at a young age.
• Eye damage: UV rays increase the risk of developing cataracts.
• Precancerous skin lesions: Rough, scaly patches may appear on the skin, which may later turn into cancer.

How to protect yourself from sunburn?

Prevention is always better than cure. Sunburn is also something we can completely prevent.

• Apply sunscreen daily: Whenever you go outside, whether it's sunny or not, apply a sunscreen that is `Broad Spectrum` (protects against both UVA and UVB) and has at least `SPF 30`. Reapply every 90 minutes, and if you sweat or go in the water.
• Go out at the right time: Whenever possible, avoid being in the hot sun between 10 am and 4 pm.
• Wear protective clothing: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers your skin well, such as long sleeves and long pants. A wide-brimmed hat can protect your face, ears, and neck.
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses: Protecting your eyes is also essential.
• Seek shade: When outside, try to stay under a tree or other shady spot.

Sunburn is something we can easily get, but the damage it causes is not insignificant. Following these safety measures from a young age will go a long way in protecting us from serious diseases that may arise in the future. Take care of your skin, because it is the most valuable asset you will have for a lifetime.