Sunburn is caused in people with fairer complexion as their skin produces very less amounts of melanin, which is a protective pigment that prevents one from sunburns. But when people are overly exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, sunburns can occur in anyone. The best way to prevent sunburn would be to protect oneself from the piercing sun and this becomes essential as sunburn is linked to malignant melanoma which is a form of skin cancer that is very dangerous.

If an individual is constantly exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays A(UVA), it causes increased risk of cancer and premature wrinkling. Excessive exposure also leads to sunburns which destroy’s the top layer of the skin and the tenderness and redness caused due to exposure lasts for over a week and may even lead to skin blisters. The immediate effects of sunburns may be relieved with natural cures but the long-term effects are dangerous. Excessive exposure invariably causes skin cancer in the future.

Prevention: The best way to prevent sunburns would be to avoid going out in the sun during the hottest time of the day i.e between 10am-3pm. Relaxing under a shady areas and using an umbrella during excessive heat are vital. Using a sunscreen along with protective light colour cotton clothing is also a best option as light colour clothes absorb less heat. Preventing ones face with a wide brimmed hat is also a good option. Wearing sunglasses and drinking plenty of water and using antioxidant moisturizer’s are other ways of protecting oneself from sunburns.

Treating sunburns: The most dreaded thing an individual could do would be to peal the affected skin or prick the sunburn blisters. Soothing the affected area by having a cold shower or applying calamine or aloe vera gel would be the best remedy to sooth sunburnt skin. Flaking and dryness could be treated with a Vitamin E moisturizer. And finally, protecting burnt skin from further exposure would be the best protection.

Apart from the above, herbal remedies are also available. To 3 tablespoons of sweet almond oil, add 5 drops of lavender oil and the mixture needs to be applied to the affected area. A cold compress made from a few drops of rescue Remedy also helps sooth the sunburnt skin. Calendula or Urtica cream can also be applied over unblistered, stinging skin. For severe blistered skin, Rhus toxicodendron can be used on an hourly basis.