Human Skin - Sunburn

• what is it?
  • is an inflammation of the skin due to sudden or over-exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
  • this can be from sunlight or any other UV source (lamps, beds, etc.)
• causes?
  • a sudden, uncontrolled and unprotected exposure to UV radiation (eg. sun)
  • the skin did not have the opportunity to properly respond to exposure, being unable to produce enough melanin to protect the skin against UV radiation
• prevention
  • expose your skin to UV rays gradually
  • properly and liberally apply and reapply sun protection moisturizers or shields
  • wear a broad rimmed hat and sun protectant clothing
  • do not get direct sun exposure when the sun is at its most intense (between noon and 4:00pm)
• what to do when you have a sunburn?
  • get out of the sun or away from other UV radiation source immediately
  • apply a hydrating, soothing and calming gel, creme and/or lotion to affected area(s)
    • Nancy K. Brown suggests a combination of Aloe Gel Hydrator and All Purpose Creme
      • apply Aloe Gel Hydrator first - to hydrate, soothe and calm, followed by
      • All Purpose Creme - to seal and moisturize
  • if the burn is severe consult a health care professional
• results and consequences of sunburns:
  • immediate results:
    • a red, inflammed and tender skin, which flakes, peels and scabs
    • discomfort for several days until the inflammation subsides
  • long-term consequences may be:
    • permanent damage to skin cells
    • scaring - from picking at the scabs and flaking skin
    • premature ageing of the skin
    • breakdown of the skin's collagen and elastin, resulting in:
      • sagging skin
      • more pronounced lines and wrinkles
    • skin discoloration / hyperpigmentation - unevenly distributed areas of darker skin, giving skin a patchy appearance
    • skin cancers