Sunburn
- Sunburns are burns caused by overexposure the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun or from sunlamps.
- Repeated sun exposure and sunburns cause premature aging of the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer in the damaged areas.
- Each blistering sunburn doubles the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

Symptoms of a sunburn
- Minor sunburn is a first-degree burn that turns the skin pink or red and is painful and warm.
- Second-degree burns can be caused by prolonged sun exposure and are characterized by blistering of the skin.

Prevention of sunburns
- Sunscreens should be applied prior to prolonged exposure to the sun and reapplied according to the product directions.  Sunscreens should be SPF 15 or greater and applied 30 minutes prior to exposure.
- Hats, protective clothing (T-shirts) and sunglasses with 99% to 100% UV protection should be worn.
- Sun exposure between 10am and 3pm should be avoided.
- Extra precautions should be taken when visiting the tropics and for people taking medication which may cause photosensitivity as a side effect.

Treatment of sunburns
- If used early, moisturizers with aloe applied three times a day may help reduce swelling, pain and discomfort.
- Extra fluids should be consumed to prevent dehydration.
- Taking cool (not cold) baths and applying cool compresses may help alleviate discomfort.
- Ibuprofen containing products may also reduce swelling, pain and discomfort. (Specific products may be recommended by a physician or pharmacist.)
- Acetaminophen containing products may also help reduce pain and discomfort. (Specific products may be recommended by a physician or pharmacist.)
- If peeling occurs, a moisturizer may be applied. (Specific products may be recommended by a physician or pharmacist.)
- An antibiotic cream may be applied to broken blisters to prevent possible infection. (Specific products may be recommended by a physician or pharmacist.)
- Ointments, Vaseline^® and butter should not be applied to sunburns.  These products are painful to remove and prevent heat from escaping the burned area.

A physician should be notified if:
- the sunburn is severely painful or if a fever over 100.5° F is present.
- an infant under 1 year old is sunburned.
- multiple or infected blisters appear or if signs of dehydration appear.

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This information is of a general nature and may not apply to your special circumstances. If you have specific questions, please contact your physician or an appropriate health care professional.  These monographs are counseling aids for healthcare professionals only and are not to be used as a reference to diagnose or treat medical conditions.          Copyright 2005 RXinsider LTD