Sunburn first aid

Definition:

Sunburn is a painful skin condition which occurs as a result of overexposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun.

Considerations:

Infants and children are especially sensitive to the burning effects of the sun.

Fair hair and skin can heighten susceptibility to sunburn, but even dark and black skin can burn and should be protected.

The sun's rays are strongest during the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. standard time. The sun's rays are stronger at higher altitudes. Reflection of water, sand or snow can intensify the sun's burning rays.

First and second degree burns can be sustained from sun exposure.

There is no such thing as a "healthy tan". Years of unprotected sun exposure will cause premature aging of the skin. Skin cancer usually appears in adulthood, but it is caused by sun exposure and sunburns that occurred in childhood. Malignant melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer. You can prevent this by protecting your child's skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Cataracts may result from exposing the eyes to years of unprotected sun exposure.

Causes:

• Overexposure to the sun causes sunburn. The time it takes to sustain a sunburn varies widely related to the age of the person, skin type and color, geographical location, altitude, time of day, time of year, reflection of water, sand or snow.



• Sun lamps can cause severe sunburn



• Some medications can make a person much more susceptible to sunburn.

Update Date: 6/01/00

Updated by: adam.com editorial