Overview
Sunburn is damage to the top layers of the skin caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Most commonly, the light source is the sun, but tanning beds and some intense heat sources, such as welding tools, can also produce a sunburn. The sunburn usually becomes apparent within 24 hours of exposure; the skin becomes red, warm, and tender, and the person may feel dizzy or ill. Sometimes the skin may blister and peel.
Experiencing a sunburn raises the lifetime risk of developing skin cancer. Sunburn and sun exposure also increase wrinkling and other signs of premature aging in the skin. Even a tan is dangerous to the skin, as many doctors consider a tan to be an early sunburn. The best protection is to avoid the sun, especially during the peak hours of 10 AM to 3 PM. Always wear sunscreen on exposed skin with an SPF of at least 30. Additionally, it is important to know that you can get a sunburn through certain clothing and that tanning beds are a source of the same light that cause burns, premature aging, and skin cancer.
