Sunburn

What Is Sunburn

A “sexy summer glow” is something we’ve grown up thinking is desirable, and it can feel good to soak up some rays, especially after a long winter. However, sunburn is no light matter (if you’ll pardon the pun). A tan, which you may or may not think looks nice, is actually your body’s way of attempting to protect itself from the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays. Sunburns increase your risk of skin damage that, in turn, can lead to deadly cancers. And that’s not to mention the aging effects of sun damaging your skin, from sunspots and dry skin patches, to premature wrinkles.

It’s unlikely that you don’t know the basic mechanics of sunburn—it’s the sun, literally burning your skin! But did you know that, despite all of the increased awareness and public education in the last couple of decades or so, at least one in three adults and a whopping 70 percent of children admit they’ve gotten sunburned in the past year.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), more than 3.5 million skin cancers, in more than 2 million people, are diagnosed every single year— and many of these skin cancers could have been prevented with protection from the sun’s rays.

What Causes Sunburn

Risk Factors For Sunburn

Symptoms of Sunburn

Prognosis

Complications

Prevention

Sunscreen: What you need to know!

Common Treatment

When To Contact A Doctor

Questions For A Doctor

Resources