Sunburn: the invisible danger that can burn your skin in fifteen minutes!
Sudden redness, throbbing pain, persistent itching: why sometimes even a simple trip under cloudy skies is enough to trigger a genuine skin burn Because ultraviolet rays don't wait for heat waves or beach trips to reach your skin. Understanding how sunburn works, anticipating risk factors, and taking the right steps as soon as you feel the heat are the keys to protecting your skin in the long term.
1. The 3 ultraviolet rays
- UVC : completely blocked by the ozone layer, they do not reach the epidermis.
- UVB : responsible for tanning and sunburn, their intensity peaks between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- UVA : penetrate deeper, generating oxidative stress, DNA damage, and premature aging.
Tip: Choose a sunscreen with a UVA rating of at least one-third of the SPF to ensure balanced protection against both wavelengths.
2. Actinic erythema: what really happens under the skin
Within eight to twenty-four hours of exposure, keratinocytes damaged by UVB rays release inflammatory mediators; microcirculation increases, and the area becomes red and hot. Three levels of severity are recognized:
- First degree : simple painful redness that may peel.
- Superficial second degree : transparent blisters, risk of localized dehydration.
- Deep second degree : pale blisters, decreased sensitivity, possible scarring.
3. How long does it take to heal?
- First degree : 2 to 7 days, with final peeling.
- Superficial second degree : 1 to 2 weeks, possible pigmentation spots.
- Deep second degree : at least 1 month, permanent scarring likely.
Consult a doctor if you have a fever, extensive blisters, or widespread pain.
4. Who is most at risk?
- Infants and children: their thin skin burns four times faster.
- Skin types I to III: low protective melanin content.
- People undergoing photosensitizing treatments or care (retinoids, AHAs, certain antibiotics).
- Bald scalp or thinning hair: an area often overlooked when applying sunscreen.
5. Emergency measures to take
- Cool the area for fifteen minutes under cool water (never ice cold).
- Apply a moist compress followed by a non-occlusive moisturizing gel (aloe vera, bisabolol).
- Relieve Pain with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug if necessary.
- Moisturize abundantly: the body mobilizes its water to the damaged skin.
- Protect sunburn and friction until completely healed.
6. Prevention is better than cure
- Sun filter : SPF 50 minimum, reapplied every two hours and after swimming.
- Covering clothing and tightly woven fabrics, UV400 sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats.
- Hours : Go out before 11 a.m. and after 4 p.m. when the UV index is lower.
- Weather reflexes : Sand and water reflect up to 80% of UV rays; even when it's cloudy, caution is still advised.
7. What we risk in the medium and long term
Repeated exposure and frequent sunburn accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers, promote the early appearance of wrinkles and pigment spots, and significantly increase the risk of carcinoma and melanoma.
8. Sensitive areas: focus on the scalp
Under the summer sun, the upper part of the body is directly exposed to UV rays. A protective veil (special sunscreen) and a wide-brimmed hat are the best combination to prevent redness, flaking, and scarring alopecia.
