Sun burn - the dangers of tanning in excess

Sun burn comes about from too much exposure to UV light, so much so that melanin (the natural pigment in the skin) offers no protection. The more melanin we have in our skin the more protected we are - this is why darker skinned people can be exposed for longer and not get burnt.

Most people see sun burn as nothing more than a temporary discomfort - this is a foolish way of thinking. Although not instantly visible, once your skin takes on a red glow, starts itching and stinging the damage to your skin has already been done. Discomfort and pain is often at its peak only six to forty-eight hours after UV exposure. In extreme cases the skin actually forms blisters that fill with liquid.

It characteristic for some swelling to occur (especially if the area round the leg has been burnt), toxins (free radicals) to be released and a fever to develop. Peeling which is usually the last stage, only starts about 4 to 7 days after the over exposure.

Continued exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer and speed up the visible aging process (premature aging.)

To avoid sunburn follow the recommended sun bed guidelines. Do not lie outside between 10am - 3pm and always wear a sunscreen of SPF 15 of higher.

What is the Best Treatment for Sun Burn?

In the event you have sustained sun burn from a tanning device there are a number of suggested remedies and treatments listed below:

• Use commercial "after suns" that contain soothing aloe vera and calamine. Greasy substances will trap heat and add to your discomfort.
• Cold compresses of one part water to one part milk should be kept on the affected area until the pain gives way. Oral painkillers will help.
• To aid the skin's healing process take about 1,000 mg of vitamin C, 400 I.U. of vitamin E (about one capsule), 15 mg of beta carotene, and 2 tablespoons of flaxseed oil for a couple of days. The over exposure has resulted in the release of free radicals that damage the skin. Vitamin C and vitamin E are antioxidants that will counteract this affect. Flaxseed oil helps with the inflammation.
• Apply apple cider vinegar to the over exposed area to relieve the pain as well as to minimise the chance of blistering and peeling.
• Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to a tepid bath and soak yourself. People recommend baking soda as it has a cooling effect and helps the skin retain moisture.
• Rub your sun burned area with fresh cucumber slices or if you don't have any try using tomatoes.
• If your sun burn is painfully hot, separate the white from the yolk of an egg, then softly spread the egg whites over your burn. A cooling effect will be felt instantly.
• Crumble 1 cup of uncooked oatmeal into a bath of lukewarm water. Soak in it for 15-20 minutes. Pat your burned areas dry so that a thin coating of the oatmeal remains on your skin. This will help with the itching.
• Mix 2 teaspoon tomato juice with about 4 tablespoons of buttermilk and put this mixture on your face. Leave it there for a good 30mins and then wash it off.

If you blister, swell and there is fluid oozing, you have possibly sustained a secondary degree sun burn.  See a physician right away and refrain from using lotions or creams on the burn.  Breaking the blisters could cause infection to set in.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Sun Burn

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