What to apply after a sunburn. What to do if you get sunburned: what to apply to your skin after a sunburn. When medical help is needed

In the last decade, sunscreen cosmetics (lotions, creams, oils, sprays) have taken a strong place in the travel bags of vacationers. When heading to the beach, many people pack an arsenal of sunscreen in hopes of protecting themselves and their family from sunburn.

Determining the degree of sunburn

Sunburn is an inflammation of the skin caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation. There are three degrees of burn: weak, medium, strong.

The level of damage directly depends on several factors:

Time spent under ultraviolet rays, radiation is most intense between 10 am and 4 pm;
The presence of reflective surfaces near the human body (water, sand, snow, ice);
Time of year – the sun is most active in spring, summer, early autumn;
Altitude, due to the low filtration of ultraviolet rays at high altitudes, the severity of sunburn is higher;
Skin type.

Let's talk in more detail about the symptoms and signs characteristic of one degree or another.

Mild burn

Symptoms (redness, dryness) appear 3-7 hours after exposure to the celestial body. The peak of pain occurs 12-14 hours after sunbathing. Often such lesions go away quickly, within 1-2 days, and leave behind only a more intense tan.

Moderate burn

The affected area turns red, swelling and pain appear. At the recovery stage (3-6 days), dry, burned skin is rejected (flakes). Thanks to regeneration, the dermis under the flaky layer will already be renewed.

Severe sunburn

In addition to skin damage (redness, swelling, blisters), severe sunburn is accompanied by the following symptoms: fever; dizziness; chills; nausea; increased heart rate and breathing; dehydration; loss of consciousness.

In the long term, such an injury is dangerous:

Increases the risk of developing skin cancer, especially in children;
Exacerbates diseases such as psoriasis, arthritis, dermatitis, urticaria;
Promotes the development of cataracts, which can lead to blindness;
It causes changes in the structure of the dermis: wrinkles and age spots appear.

First aid

If you do become a victim of the aggressive rays of a heavenly body, it is worth remembering the rules of first aid:

Hide from the sun indoors;
To relieve fever and pain, apply a cold compress or take a cool shower;
If the pain is intense, take painkillers (“Analgin”, “Paracetamol”, “Tempalgin”);
Apply anti-burn agent (Panthenol);
If there are small blisters, apply a bandage to prevent infection;
If you have symptoms of severe sun damage, call a doctor.

You should immediately consult a doctor if:

The skin of the face is affected - such injuries often heal with difficulty and may be accompanied by the formation of scars or other defects in the dermis;
There is a widespread lesion with large watery blisters anywhere on the body;
Damage to the dermis is accompanied by the formation of blisters with bloody contents.

When providing first aid, it is important to remember that it is strictly prohibited:

Treat the affected areas with alcohol-containing products, which will increase not only the pain, but also the affected area;
Treat the injury area with soap or gel-based hygiene products; the chemical compounds they contain can cause allergies;
Use fatty creams to treat the burned area, since fats will prevent the skin from cooling and will only increase the affected area.

Treatment for severe sunburn

During treatment, additional treatment with moisturizing and regenerating agents is required, for example "Panthenol", "Rescuer". The most severe pain, discomfort and possible unpleasant consequences are fraught with severe sunburn. Successful treatment of such injuries consists of stages.

Treatment of blisters. Small blisters do not open and ointments or creams with an antiseptic and wound-healing effect are used for external use ( “Panthenol”, “Bepanten”, “Actovegin”, “Rescuer”, “Agrosulfan”, “Sintomycin”, “Methyluracil”, “Levosin”, “Fastin”).

Large blisters must be opened in a medical facility. If it was torn off by accident and becomes infected, or the lesion is represented by wounds of various sizes and depths, treatment should be carried out according to the rules for the treatment of thermal injuries.

After the blisters are treated, actions should be aimed at:

To reduce pain, you can take Ibuprofen;
Will help prevent inflammation "Paracetamol", "Analgin", "Aspirin";
Antihistamines will help relieve allergic syndrome, which manifests itself as swelling. "Claritin" "Loratadine";
Prevention of dehydration of the body, for this you need to drink at least 2.5 liters of fluid per day;
Absolute exclusion of the harmful effects of sunlight for some time after recovery;
Taking vitamins to renew the skin, vitamins E, C, D will help the dermis recover.

Review of anti-burn agents

The most effective external medications include the following:

"Panthenol". Moisturizes, protects, regenerates damaged tissues.
"Solcoseryl". It has a powerful wound-healing effect and restores damaged skin.
"Methyluracil". Ointment based on methyluracil. Stimulates tissue regeneration and restoration during superficial and severe injuries of this kind during the healing stage.
"Miramistin". It has good antibacterial activity and is used in the first stage of treating burnt skin of any complexity.
"Agrosulfan". Silver in the composition of the drug has a good barrier effect for severe sun damage to the skin without discharge.
"Oflocain". Moisturizes, promotes the rejection of dead tissue, protects the wound surface. The lidocaine contained in the composition relieves pain.
"Fastin". Ointment based on furatsilin, anesthesin, synthomycin. Effective in cases of superficial lesions or severe ones in the healing stage.
"Rescuer" . Contains plant extracts and beeswax They provide a protective film on the affected skin and have a softening, protective, analgesic and wound-healing effect.
"Kremgen". Fights swelling and has an antimicrobial effect.
"Bepanten". The active ingredient - dexpanthenol - cools, relieves pain, chlorhexidine has an antimicrobial effect.
"Actovegin". Regenerates damaged dermis and promotes healing.

Preventing sunburn

A severe sunburn causes a lot of inconvenience and often causes a spoiled holiday. To prevent skin injury, you should correctly determine its type and sunbathe according to the rules defined for it.

In dermatology, there are 6 skin types depending on sensitivity to UV radiation:

1 type The owners are mostly blue-eyed people with very fair skin (blond, red-haired), not prone to tanning. To get a burn, it is enough to spend 15-20 minutes in the sun in the afternoon.
Type 2 Inherent in blondes, owners of light brown or light brown hair with light shade eye. The skin is slightly darker than type 1, a light tan is possible. With a short stay (30 minutes) in the sun it burns easily.
Type 3 Skin light, medium-light or with olive undertones. Wearers may receive a moderate burn (40 minutes of exposure to ultraviolet rays) or a light brown tan.
Type 4 Occurs in dark-haired people with dark eyes. Olive skin color and low risk of sunburn (may turn slightly pink after 60-90 minutes in the sun). Tans to medium brown.
Type 5 Common to residents of the Middle East or people with African-American roots. The skin is dark and easily (within 2 hours) gets a dark tan without the possibility of getting burned.
Type 6 Black skin, not prone to burns.

In addition, they are at increased risk.

Summer for most people is associated with a wonderful time in the sun. However, you need to sunbathe wisely, otherwise you will get a sunburn. Treatment for this unpleasant consequences Excessive exposure to sunlight can be done at home. However, in some cases, treatment of sunburned skin should be carried out exclusively by a medical professional. Today you will learn how to treat sunburn on the skin and what to apply to the skin if you are sunburned.

First, you should find out what a sunburn is, the treatment of which today we will discuss in detail. A sunburn is an inflammation of the skin caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Sunburn on the skin occurs when there is insufficient amount of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark coloring. When exposed to the sun, melanin is produced in the body and darkens, which helps protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation.

People with pale skin, blond hair, those who spend little time in the sun, and those who often have to treat sunburn in children are most helpless against UV rays. For people with freckles and red hair, it only takes 5-10 minutes to get a severe sunburn. But if you have dark hair and eyes, then you will get a sunburn after at least 30-40 minutes.

The main symptoms of a sunburn are redness, inflammation of the skin, headache, dehydration, blisters, rashes, burning, increased overall body temperature, and sometimes accompanied by chills. Please note that symptoms of sunburn do not occur instantly; it usually takes 12 to 24 hours before visible changes in the skin occur.

What parts of the body are affected by sunburn? Most often it is required, since it is the face that comes into most contact with the sun, and the nose is the protruding part of the face. In second place - it occurs especially often in people who work a lot in the garden.

Sun burns: first aid

You can independently cure a 1-2 degree sunburn, accompanied only by redness of the skin, burning, small blisters, and headache. An ambulance for a sunburn should be called in case of confusion, loss of consciousness, weakness throughout the victim's body, faintness, rapid pulse, nausea, fever, large blisters, difficulty urinating and dehydration.

The help of a medical professional will be required if there are signs of infection, manifested by the appearance of pus, severe pain, swelling in the burn area, as well as enlarged lymph nodes. If you have at least one of the above symptoms, then first aid for a sunburn should be provided by medical professionals.

If you or someone you know has a sunburn on their skin, first aid should look like this:

Take shelter from direct sunlight, move to a cool room or shade;
Try to adequately assess your health status. Call if necessary ambulance;
If possible, take a cool shower without using cosmetics;
If it is not possible to shower, apply cool lotions to the damaged areas of the skin (just soak a clean cloth/gauze in cool, clean water). Lotions should be changed every 15-20 minutes;
Drink as much clean, non-carbonated water as possible, avoid carbonated and alcoholic drinks. Note that it is best to drink water at room temperature, otherwise sunburn will be accompanied by chills;
If the pain is severe, it is important to take a sunburn pain reliever. The pharmacy sells many non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that will relieve pain (Aspirin, Analgin, Ibuprofen).

Sunburns: Treatment Methods

There are many pharmaceutical remedies for sunburn. You can buy most of them at any pharmacy in any city at sea. Good remedy for sunburn works in two directions: it reduces body temperature in the affected area and helps fight dehydration. In this section, we will tell you which sunburn remedies work best and how to use them.

For pain relief and fever relief from sunburn, you should take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, sold in a pharmacy at sea or in the city without a doctor's prescription. The most popular and effective are Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Paracetamol. They relieve inflammation, swelling, and pain. Treatment of sunburn with such tablets should be carried out during the acute period. You need to take 1 tablet every 4-6 hours.

For sunburn, ointments are the most important and best remedy. Ointments containing Panthenol (a water-soluble vitamin that helps regenerate skin cells) or Hydrocortisone (reduces pain, reduces swelling, helps) are excellent for sunburn.

What other remedy for sunburn helps? Of course, vitamins E, A, C. They help the skin recover and prevent malignant degeneration of cells. It is important to consume them for at least 10 days after receiving a sunburn. Treatment can also be carried out using rehydron, which helps reduce dehydration. Special attention Pay attention to nutrition for sunburn. Include more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins E, A, C.

It is quite difficult to tell when a sunburn goes away. Usually after 3-4 days the redness subsides and the painful sensations. Peeling of burnt skin begins after 6-10 days. On average, a sunburn lasts up to 2 weeks. However, you can only tell exactly how long a sunburn lasts by knowing the extent of the damage, your skin type, and the sunburn treatments you use.

Sunburned: what to apply

Most often, people wonder what to apply to a sunburn. And this is a completely logical and correct question, since ointments are a super remedy for sunburn. Let's take a closer look at the question of how to apply sunburn.

Panthenol is the most effective ointment if you are sunburned. It must be smeared 2-4 times a day until complete recovery, it helps relieve inflammation, pain, local temperature. Panthenol is available not only in the form of an ointment, but also as a spray and milk. It is more convenient to use in aerosol form;
Bepanten has an antimicrobial, analgesic, and regenerating effect. Helps quickly relieve inflammation. If you have a sunburn on your skin, you need to apply Bepanten 2 times a day;
Zinc ointment for sunburn helps relieve inflammation and skin irritation. Its peculiarity is the formation of a protective coating. In addition, it prevents infection of the damaged area. Apply 3-6 times a day;
Finistil gel has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic and antipruritic effects. You can apply it to a sunburn 2 times a day. Finistil gel begins to act very quickly, literally after 10 minutes;
Psilo-balm is intended to be applied to the skin if it is sunburned. It is important to apply the product in a thin layer up to 4 times a day. Cannot be used by pregnant women, incompatible with alcohol. Helps relieve itching, pain, swelling, and has a cooling effect.

We have presented an overview of the most popular ointments for sunburn. Therefore, now you will not have the question of what to anoint if you are sunburned.

Sunburn: treatment with folk remedies

In addition to traditional pharmaceutical remedies for the treatment of sunburn, there are many folk recipes. Therefore, if there is no pharmacy nearby, and you are sunburnt, you can smear yourself with products that every person has in their refrigerator.

Folk remedies for treating sunburn:

Grate a cucumber or raw potato, apply to the damaged area for 20-30 minutes. This paste can relieve pain and local body temperature;
Make a mask from kefir, sour cream, yogurt. It helps moisturize the skin and also soothes it;
If you get sunburned, you can apply oil. Mix olive oil and essential oil in equal proportions, this mixture will help cool the skin;
Take a cool bath with chamomile infusion, baking soda, and oatmeal. From the latter you can make lotions. Pour oatmeal into a clean cloth, wet it with cool water, apply to the burn site every 2-4 hours;
Aloe is considered one of the best remedies for treating sunburn. You can simply squeeze out aloe juice, dilute with cool clean water in equal proportions and use the resulting mixture as lotions;
Egg whites are great for eliminating pain and preventing dry skin. Simply apply cool protein to the burn area, once dry, remove it with a damp, clean cloth and reapply new protein.

Preventing sunburn

Any disease is easier to prevent, sunburn is no exception. To avoid treating sunburn, we recommend using simple preventive measures. Firstly, try not to be in the sun between 12:00 and 16:00. It is at this time that the sun is more active. Secondly, use sunscreens and gels. The lighter the skin, the higher the protection factor of the cream should be. Thirdly, sunbathe in doses, let your skin get used to the effects of sunlight.

Prevention of sunburn involves wearing sunglasses, a hat/cap/panama hat to protect the skin of the face and prevent sunstroke. Please note that after swimming you must reapply sunscreen. If you are taking antibiotics or antibacterial drugs, sunbathing is prohibited.

In case of sunburn, it is strictly forbidden to use ice as cooling, wear tight clothes made of non-natural fabrics, or scratch the damaged areas. Try not to use fatty creams, alcohol-containing sprays, or lotions. Avoid using soap, shower gel and other cosmetics that dry out your skin for a while.

Video

The bright summer sun can become not only a source of a luxurious bronze tan. Sunburn on the face is dangerous due to its consequences. The appearance of pigmentation, moles, the development of painful sensitivity. Timely treatment will avoid unpleasant phenomena by quickly restoring the properties of the skin.

What is sunburn

The sun's rays in small quantity necessary to maintain human health. Thanks to ultraviolet radiation, metabolic processes are improved, immune properties are increased, and sleep rhythm is restored. The growth of bacteria, fungi, and pathogenic microflora is suppressed, blood flow and the supply of nutrients to the integument are activated. Under the influence of the sun, vitamin D is synthesized, which is necessary for the musculoskeletal system. But exceeding the radiation norm leads to the destruction of the protective properties of the skin and its damage.

This is one of the types of radiation burns due to exposure to aggressive short-wave radiation. It mainly affects the upper layers of the epidermis. The influence of rays with a long range destroys, the thickness and structure of the skin changes. Sunburn is an inflammatory process caused by natural or artificial radiation.

Main symptoms

A sunburn that develops gradually is dangerous. If with other types of skin burns signs appear immediately, the effects of exposure to ultraviolet radiation are noticeable after 12–24 hours. Most aggressive Sun rays in late spring and early summer between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. The degree of damage depends on individual structure skin, sensitivity to sunlight.

Symptoms:

With a mild burn, the integument is observed, a feeling of tightness and burning occurs. Painful sensitivity develops and it is impossible to touch the affected area.
In severe cases, swelling is observed, the skin becomes covered with blisters and a crust.
A symptom of a severe burn is a deterioration in general health, fever, chills.

Why is he dangerous?

Sunburn, accompanied by redness, goes away without consequences within a few days. Under the influence of rays, benign neoplasms, moles, and birthmarks often appear. There is a manifestation of erythema, the face and body are covered with red and pink spots of various sizes. Under unfavorable working and living conditions, and the regular influence of aggressive factors, over time, benign formations can transform into malignant ones. With frequent sunburn from natural and artificial sources, there is a risk of developing skin cancer. Excessive tanning can lead to dryness, wrinkles, and premature aging of the skin.

When you receive severe sunburn, wounds, burns, cracks often form, and you may encounter swelling and blisters. Restoration of integument requires a long period of application medicines. The consequences can be inflammatory and infectious diseases requiring drug therapy.

Remedies for sunburn on the face

– an effective remedy for sunburn, based on pantothenic acid. Thanks to its use, skin regeneration occurs. It is well absorbed by the epidermis and accelerates tissue renewal. Relieves dryness, feeling of tightness, redness. It has a slight cooling effect and relieves painful sensitivity. The cost of 150 ml is about 95 rubles.

– available in the form of an ointment, gel, the active ingredient is dialysate from the blood of dairy calves. It is an active stimulator of skin regeneration. It has anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and... Helps quickly relieve painful sensitivity, cope with swelling. Helps saturate cells with oxygen and nutrients. Stimulates collagen synthesis, restores capillaries. Cost 5 gr. – 400 rub.

– has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Used to treat sunburn of varying degrees. Recommended to prevent infection of affected areas. Does not damage epidermal cells. You can buy 50 ml for 210 rubles.

– contains milk lipids, beeswax, concentrate sea buckthorn oil, tea tree ether, vitamin E. The ointment helps relieve burns, activates tissue regeneration, and has moisturizing properties. Relieves dryness, irritation, covers the skin with a protective film. Relieves pain, softens, does not irritate the epidermis. Price 30 gr. 164 rub.

Folk remedies for burns

A person after a sunburn needs a long recovery. Even external signs– redness, inflammation have passed, side effects often appear. Pigment spots, premature wrinkles, dryness and sensitivity of the skin are the main consequences of aggressive exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Mask

The sunburn mask will relieve painful sensitivity and quickly restore the skin. It will also help relieve redness and provide deep nutrition. Thanks to its use, it will be possible to avoid the appearance of freckles and moles.

Components:

20 gr. ;
10 gr. oatmeal;
20 drops.

Grind the oatmeal in a coffee grinder, pour boiling water until it becomes a paste, leave for 10 minutes. Then, using a whisk, mix with sour cream, add vitamin E. Leave the mask to cool for 5 minutes, then anoint the affected areas with a thick layer. Place a damp compress on top to prevent drying out. Leave for 30–40 minutes, repeat the mask 2 times a day for 5–7 days.

Cream

Reduce pain, accelerate the renewal of burnt skin, soften the affected epidermis. Treatment at home will help avoid dryness, wrinkles, and peeling.

Components:

30 gr. ;
10 gr. shea butter;
10 gr. cocoa butter

Grind the beeswax on a grater and place in a water bath, remembering to stir constantly. When the wax begins to melt, add nourishing oils; the mass should be homogeneous. Pour the resulting liquid into a clean, dry cosmetic jar and leave to thicken. Before applying, measure out the required amount with a spatula, warm it in your palms, and then apply a thin layer to your face. Use the cream morning and evening for a week.

Compress

If your face is swollen or your temperature has risen, you can treat it using natural methods. Folk recipes will relieve fever and painful sensitivity, saturate the cells with nutrients. The protective barriers of the epidermis are restored and renewal processes are accelerated.

Components:

50 ml;
50 ml chamomile decoction;
20 ml aloe vera juice;
3 ampoules of vitamin B5.

Brew green tea and leave to steep for half an hour. Prepare and strain the chamomile infusion. Then add aloe juice and a pharmaceutical solution of pantothenic acid. Soak a thin towel in the prepared liquid, apply to your face, hold for about half an hour, then apply moisturizer. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times a day until swelling disappears.

Prevention

To avoid sunburn, it is important to take care of your skin immediately. Also in the following days you need to pay attention to nutrition and water regime.

Preventing sunburn:

Immediately after irradiation, it is recommended to take a bath with or flour. The duration of the procedure is from 5 to 15 minutes. It will help moisturize the skin, restore hydrobalance, and relieve sensitivity.
Drinking plenty of fluids will speed up tissue regeneration and relieve dryness and irritation. You need to drink at least 2 liters of clean water per day.
Skin care consists of moisturizing and... For cleaning, soft compounds are used, without aggressive components and abrasive particles.
Do not use lotions containing alcohol. They will further dry out and irritate damaged skin.
The menu includes foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and carotene. They will help improve immune properties and restore renewal processes. You can take a multivitamin complex, this will avoid side effects, the appearance of moles, age spots.
When choosing products with SPF protection, focus on an indicator of at least 10.

It is better to prevent burning in order to protect the skin from premature aging and dermatological problems. Sunburn, like heatstroke, can occur from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., after which ultraviolet radiation is not harmful to the skin. It is imperative to use sunscreens with a high protection factor.

When to see a doctor

Consultation with a specialist is necessary for prolonged and slow recovery of the skin. You can deal with minor redness yourself at home.

You need to see a doctor if:

the skin of the face is burned, which often leads to the appearance of scars and other cosmetic defects;
extensive burns, swollen face, formation of large blisters with liquid;
burns of any affected area, with blisters filled with bloody fluid, the appearance of cracks and wounds;
swelling of the face after a sunburn also requires seeing a doctor.

If your child experiences a sunburn, you should definitely consult a doctor. The effects of ultraviolet exposure are especially dangerous for children under 3 years of age. Children's skin is much thinner and more sensitive to the influence of aggressive factors, so the degree of damage is often higher than in adults. The doctor will recommend effective means for local use, adjust the diet, prescribe antipyretic drugs. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the skin lesion.

Everyone knows how harmful sunlight can be to the skin, but many people still forget or simply don't want to use sunscreen. Perhaps this applies to you too. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause DNA damage. Short periods of sun exposure can give you a nice tan (that is, skin pigmentation that protects your skin from ultraviolet radiation), but long-term exposure to any kind of ultraviolet radiation is harmful to all skin types and can cause skin cancer. Although sunburns can be quite painful, they are usually considered superficial first-degree burns, which is the mildest group of burns. Although you can't reduce the damage to your skin after a sunburn, you can relieve pain and speed up healing. Fortunately, sunburn can almost always be treated at home.

Steps

Part 1

Treatment of sunburn

If you develop blisters, see your doctor. If the burn is severe, purulent blisters may appear. In this case, it is necessary to wash the affected area of skin with running water and mild soap. Blisters are a sign of a second-degree burn, which increases the risk of infection. If blisters appear on the skin from which pus is released, you should consult a doctor. The doctor will prescribe the appropriate antibiotics and can puncture the blisters if necessary.

Apply cold compresses. If you don't have ready-made compresses, dip a towel in ice water and apply it to the burned area.

Apply aloe vera to the affected area. Aloe vera juice and soy-based moisturizers are great for cooling burned skin. Aloe vera has been shown to speed up the healing of burns in preliminary studies. According to scientific literature, those patients who used aloe vera were cured on average 9 days earlier than others.

Keep your skin clean and well moisturized. Avoid using harsh, scented lotions as they may increase irritation.

Avoid sunlight while your skin is healing. Continued sun exposure may cause further damage to your skin, resulting in you needing health care. Burnt skin needs protection, so cover it when going out in the sun or other sources of ultraviolet radiation.

Be patient. Sunburns go away on their own. This usually takes several days or weeks. However, if you have a second-degree burn with blisters, it may take three weeks to heal. In case of a second degree sunburn, it is better to seek medical help. Sunburn usually leaves no scars.

Apply witch hazel to the burn. Soak cotton wool or a bandage with this astringent and apply to the damaged skin 3-4 times a day for 20 minutes to relieve pain and itching.

Witch hazel has very little side effects and absolutely safe for children.

Part 3

Harm of sunburn

See a doctor if you have severe sunburn. If you have been exposed to UV light for long periods of time and have significant burns (called light dermatosis), blistered skin, severe pain, fever, excessive thirst or fatigue, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms may indicate more serious health problems. For example, they may be caused by genetic sensitivity to sunlight or metabolic characteristics that lead to niacin (vitamin B3) deficiency. Typical symptoms and treatment methods are described in this article. Medical attention is required for the following serious symptoms:

Beware of skin cancer. The two main forms of skin cancer—basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma—are directly related to sun exposure. These cancers most often affect the face, ears, and hands. After five or more sunburns, the risk of the most dangerous form of skin cancer, melanoma, doubles. The risk of melanoma also increases after severe sunburn.

Be aware of the danger of heatstroke. When heatstroke occurs, the body loses the ability to regulate its temperature, and as a result, it continues to rise. Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead not only to severe burns, but also to heat stroke. The following symptoms indicate heatstroke:

Protect the burn area from sunlight until the skin heals.
Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Remember to reapply, especially if you sweat or swim.
Do not apply ice to the burn as it may further damage sensitive skin. To reduce the burning sensation, place the burn area under cool running water.
The full effects of a sunburn can only appear 48 hours after receiving it.

Sources

Matsumura Y, Ananthaswamy HN. Toxic effects of ultraviolet radiation on the skin. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2004 Mar 15. 195(3):298-308. .
Narbutt J, Lesiak A, Sysa-Jedrzejowska A, Boncela J, Wozniacka A, Norval M. Repeated exposures of humans to low doses of solar simulated radiation lead to limited photoadaptation and photoprotection against UVB-induced erythema and cytokine mRNA up-regulation. J Dermatol Sci. 2007 Mar. 45(3):210-2. .
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003227.htm
http://surgery.ucsd.edu/divisions/trauma-burn/about/burn-center/Pages/minor.aspx
https://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/for-kids/about-skin/skin-cancer/treating-sunburn
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/burns
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/sunburn/page8_em.htm#sunburn_medical_treatment
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Sunburn/Pages/Introduction.aspx

Sunburn is damage to the skin by ultraviolet radiation. Not all types of ultraviolet radiation can cause sunburn; only long and medium wave radiation damages the skin - type A and especially type B.1. Ultraviolet radiation - long waves (UVA) can activate rapid production melanin is the pigment of the skin, and accordingly a tan appears, which does not last long, since it is a kind of short-term reaction to radiation. Long waves also affect the deeper layers of the dermis, changing the structure of connective tissue and nearby small blood vessels. In addition, photoaging develops, the elasticity and turgor of the skin are lost. There are studies that statistically confirm the harmful effects of active UVA on the entire body: oxidation processes become more intense (oxidative stress), and epidermal cancer is provoked.

2. Medium wave ultraviolet radiation is called UVB. This type activates the production (synthesis) of new pigment granules in melanocytes, which manifests itself in the form of persistent pigmentation, that is, tanning and age spots. Since UVB not only promotes the synthesis of melanin, but also significantly increases the density of the upper layer of the skin - the epidermis, moderate doses of such radiation are quite safe. Excessive exposure to type B radiation can also provoke melanoma (skin cancer).

Signs of sunburn

Sunburn is manifested by the following symptoms:

1. Hyperemia (redness) of the skin, local or diffuse (widespread). 2. Swelling. 3. Irritation of damaged areas of the skin. 4. Blisters - small and large. 5. Increased body temperature. 6. Fever, chills. 7. Severe itching.8.Dehydration (dehydration) of the body.9.Infection of damaged areas of the skin.10.Shock.

Clinically, signs of a sunburn can appear literally in half an hour, but most often the typical burn picture develops within 24 hours. Manifestations begin with redness of sun-exposed areas of the body, then painful sensations develop, and blisters with liquid exudate appear inside. Secondary infection of burst blisters and miliary papules (small rashes the size of millet grains) may be the result of secondary skin lesions. Also, these signs are associated with damage to the skin of the calves and ankle areas of the legs, where they, in principle, take a very long time to heal. Severe itching occurs several days after damage, and peeling begins after 4-6 days. Signs of a sunburn can develop unnoticed, accompanied by heatstroke, then a state of shock is possible, since a significant part of the human body, including the head, is overheated.

Sunburn in children

This is undoubtedly the parents' fault. While it takes about half an hour for an adult to be exposed to harmful ultraviolet radiation, it only takes five minutes for a child to be at risk of such exposure. Although signs of skin breakdown and heat stroke may develop slowly in a child, parents should closely monitor their child's exposure to the sun. Sunburn in children is manifested by the following symptoms: Lethargy, drowsiness, or, on the contrary, anxiety, whims. Redness. Increased body temperature. Chills. Nausea, vomiting. Pale face. They are often accompanied by heat stroke, when the child’s general condition deteriorates so much that immediate medical attention is required help. The first thing adults should do before the doctor arrives is to ensure that the baby stays in a shady, cool place as soon as possible, moisten the skin with water or wrap the child completely in a damp towel or sheet. It is also necessary to reduce the risk of dehydration, that is, give the child plenty of fluids. All other treatment measures will be prescribed by the doctor after examination. Sunburn in children is most dangerous under the age of 2-3 years, so parents should take care of the maximum safety of their children in terms of protection from harmful UV exposure.

Degrees of sunburn

Sunburn, like all other types - thermal, chemical, is divided into degrees according to the strength and severity of the effect on the body. They depend on the affected area, its size, the depth of penetration of radiation into the dermal layers and the duration of its exposure.

1.I degree is characterized by a superficial effect and causes only hyperemia of the skin without papules and blisters. For all their pain, they are not threatening, even if they are spread throughout the body. If a person has been exposed to intense UVA radiation, but has not been in the sun for a long time, then everything ends with redness and some discomfort. As a rule, it does not require specialized medical care and can be treated at home.

2. The degree of sunburn directly depends on the time period of exposure to the sun, as well as on the structural features and structure of the skin. If the skin is sensitive, the person is under intense radiation for more than 2 hours, it is possible development II degrees. This is a fairly serious injury, which is characterized by the appearance of blisters, miliary papules, distributed throughout the body. Severe disturbances in the functioning of the entire body develop - dehydration, pain, elevated body temperature, nausea. Symptoms of the second degree may appear gradually, one after another, aggravating the victim’s condition. Such injuries require medical care, often in a hospital setting.

3.III and IV degrees are rare, since such severity of damage is more typical for thermal or chemical damage. Indeed, it is difficult to imagine a person who is under the scorching sun for more than 10 hours of his own free will. In the third and fourth degrees, the structure of all layers of the dermis is disrupted, subcutaneous tissue and soft tissues are damaged. In essence, this is the charring of more than 60% of the skin, its infection and, at best, scarring of the affected areas. The worst option is complete dehydration, impaired heart and kidney function, intoxication and death. The degrees of sunburn are fixed in ICD 10 in block L55.

Severe sunburn

This is photodermatosis, which can manifest itself in the form of urticaria, polymorphic dermatitis and rash, erythema. In severe cases, symptoms of shock develop - rapid pulse, pale skin, dizziness, nausea and weakness, rapid breathing, fainting. Severe sunburn is a risk for a certain category of people, which includes: Everyone with skin of the first phototype, that is, pale, sensitive. This type is also called Celtic - the skin is often covered with freckles, milky white in color. A severe sunburn can occur within 15-20 minutes after being exposed to the scorching rays. Phototype II – Nordic or light European. The skin of such people is light, also sensitive to ultraviolet radiation and poorly pigmented. A burning sensation appears within 30-50 minutes after exposure to the sun. Children under the age of 5 years, since children's skin does not perceive shock doses of ultraviolet radiation well. People aged after 55-60 years, since in this age period the skin is vulnerable and sensitive to the sun. Those who have recently experienced ultraviolet damage to the skin. Anyone diagnosed with connective tissue diseases. People suffering from systemic or oncological diseases. Anyone who has a hereditary predisposition to melanoma. People who have undergone chemotherapy and radiation. People who have recently or are currently undergoing treatment with antibiotics. Pregnant women can get severe sunburn if they do not expose themselves to the sun's rays in a shady, cool place.

Sunburn on the face

This is the most common symptom of skin damage from aggressive ultraviolet radiation. It is not difficult to guess the reason, because the face is the most exposed area exposed to inevitable sun exposure. Fortunately, sunburn on the face is usually limited to redness of the epidermis, mainly the nose, cheeks and forehead (the most prominent parts). With intense exposure to rays, swelling may occur at the site of the burning sensation. Despite the fact that it does not require medical intervention, it can seriously damage the structure of the skin and lead to its premature withering - photoaging. You can protect your face, as well as your entire body, with the help of products containing the marks UV protection and protection.

Sunburn of the eyes

In clinical practice it is called electroophthalmia. This eye disease can be caused not only by exposure to the rays of the summer sun, but also by a love of traveling across snow-capped mountain peaks, and eye inflammation is also provoked by professional factors - electric welding and exposure to mercury vapor lamps. Sunburn of the eyes causes the action of UVB rays, which disrupts microcirculation in the retina and is manifested by the following symptoms: Increased lacrimation. Photophobia. Swelling of the eyelids. Blepharospasm - spastic closure of the eyelids. Erosive lesions of the cornea and conjunctiva are possible. It develops quite quickly - from the moment of exposure to ultraviolet radiation to Symptoms appear in no more than 3-4 hours. Treatment of photoophthalmia should only be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, since independent actions will not only not help, but will also aggravate the serious condition and can lead to serious complications.

Sunburn of lips

Manifested by severe redness, often blistering sensitive skin lips, swelling, pain, peeling. The skin of the lips is vulnerable because it is very thin and does not have a protective stratum corneum. All blood vessels, nerve receptors are located extremely close to the surface and are influenced by both temperature (cold, heat) and ultraviolet radiation. In addition, sunburn of the lips is almost inevitable with prolonged exposure to the sun, since melanin, a protective pigment, is not synthesized in the lips. That is why it is recommended to protect your lips with special products containing a UV protector. But most effective way protection from it will be prevention, which involves reasonable, measured time spent in the sun.

Sunburn of the skin

It can only develop with excessive tanning. In principle, human skin is quite well adapted to thermal influences and ultraviolet radiation. If they are pigmented and do not burn, this indicates good UV tolerance; moreover, ultraviolet radiation can have a beneficial effect on the entire body: activate the functions of the nervous and endocrine system, promote the formation of vitamin D. Sunburn of the skin is possible only with an unreasonable approach to the sun and a thoughtless pursuit of a beautiful tan. Prolonged exposure to the sun is also dangerous for people whose skin belongs to the risk group - phototypes I and II. Dark-skinned, dark-skinned “lucky” people can easily tolerate the heat and activity of the sun, since they produce much more protective pigment - melanin. For everyone else, ultraviolet radiation can disrupt the structure of the dermis and the process of thermoregulation, which provokes sunburn of the skin, as well as heat stroke.

Sunburn of feet

This is damage to the feet, less often the calves of the lower extremities. They are the most painful, much worse and take longer to pass, since the skin of the legs is not adapted and is not accustomed to intense exposure to the sun. Indeed, most often the exposed areas of the body are the face and hands; they are the ones that are better adapted to ultraviolet radiation, getting used to it almost throughout their lives. Legs are most often covered with clothes, shoes and any tan is perceived much more sensitively. Since sunburn of the legs leads to disruption of the structure of the epidermis, and often the deeper layers, blood flow and lymphatic drainage in the legs slow down significantly. Symptoms develop accordingly - hyperemia, swelling, and often a feeling of numbness and tingling appear. In addition to the standard self-help procedures prescribed for such injuries, it is necessary to elevate the legs and provide lymphatic drainage in any convenient way. This could be a water massage using a shower or pouring cold water on your feet.

Consequences of sunburn

They really pose a threat to humans, especially in recent decades, when, according to scientists, solar activity has increased markedly. The most dangerous radiation is type B (UVB), that is, waves middle length. Excessive exposure to such rays can provoke the development of epidermal cancer (melanoma), which has become a real disaster. According to statistics, the number of melanoma patients increases by 7-10% annually. In addition, the consequences of sunburn are manifested in invisible pathological changes occurring inside the body. The fact is that almost all sun rays are capable of activating the formation of free radicals, that is, particles that destroy cells not only of the skin, but also of many tissues and organs. The harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation lead to the following disorders: Reduced protective properties of the immune system. Oncological diseases. Development of pathological pigmentation - nevi, lentigo. Photodermatoses. Photoaging (solar elastosis).

Treatment of sunburn

Treatment should be immediate; at the first symptoms of ultraviolet aggressive exposure, two simple steps should be taken:

1. Reduce the temperature in sun-damaged skin areas as much as possible.

2. Moisturize the affected areas of the skin as much as possible.

If you quickly cool and moisten the burned areas, not only will the pain symptoms decrease, but the swelling will also go away. Further treatment of sunburn depends on the degree of damage and how much the general condition of the patient has improved. If all signs indicate the first degree, then, most likely, medical assistance will not be required. It is enough to limit exposure to the sun for several days and lubricate the skin with antiseptic moisturizers. If the second degree is diagnosed, the help of a doctor may be required, since the risk of infection of damaged skin is high, in addition, the general condition of the patient requires a medical examination. At home, it is recommended to take the following actions: Provide peace, horizontal position, preferably a cool, darkened room. Contact with the sun is excluded for at least a week, and preferably until complete recovery. Treat the skin with specialized solutions, gels or sprays. elevated temperature take an antipyretic. Provide plenty of fortified drinks (compotes, fruit drinks, mineral water without gas) - up to 2 - 2.5 liters per day. Take vitamin E 3 capsules per day to accelerate the regeneration of the epidermis. Periodically moisten the affected skin or apply cold compresses.

How to treat sunburn?

This question is asked by many who have reached the sun after a long, protracted winter and cool spring. In fact, how can one not soak up the sun, especially since the tan is not visible. In this way, a photoburn develops completely unnoticeably, which can be neutralized in the following ways: An excellent remedy is a cold compress, which significantly relieves itching, burning and pain symptoms. Gauze or a towel soaked in cool water is applied to the affected areas of the body. Compresses should be changed periodically as they warm up. Using a proven method - hydrocortisone ointment (1%). Of course, this ointment is only suitable for adults; it is contraindicated for children. Hydrocortisone is a good pain reliever for damaged epidermis. The ointment should be applied in a thin layer, and without rinsing off, add another layer each time 3-4 times a day. It is good to apply a cold compress on top. If you experience severe pain or elevated temperature, you can take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug - ibuprofen or diclofenac. Be sure to lubricate your feet, even if they are not damaged by the sun's rays; in addition, it is better to be treated in horizontal position, raising your legs slightly (on a bolster or pillow). It’s good to take a cool shower from time to time, this will ensure lymphatic drainage of the whole body. Only a doctor can decide how to treat more severe sunburns - second or third degree.

What to do if you have a sunburn?

The algorithm of action is quite simple - cooling, hydration and neutralization of dehydration of the body. To do this, you need to either take a shower at room temperature or plunge into a cool sea water, if it is not possible to leave the beach. Then you should find a dark, shady place and wrap your entire body with a damp cloth. Even if only the face is burned, cover all possible skin areas with a wet towel. This will ensure uniform redistribution of moisture in the subcutaneous tissue and help reduce swelling. If there is no increase in body temperature, chills, or dizziness, then most likely this is the first degree, which is considered mild. It can be treated at home fairly quickly. All that is required is a few days of rest from the sun, drinking plenty of fluids and moisturizing the epidermis. Do not treat the skin with alcohol solutions, potassium permanganate or fatty creams. If the symptoms develop quickly, extensive blisters appear, hyperthermia, tachycardia, weakness, medical assistance is not only desirable, but also necessary.

Help with sunburn

Help must be provided as quickly as possible. The sooner you start acting, the fewer consequences the aggressive effects of the sun will have. The first thing to do is to leave the place where direct sunlight hits the epidermis. If possible, it is better to move to a cool, dark room, on fresh air you need to choose a shady area. Help for a sunburn directly depends on the condition of the victim; sometimes it is enough to cool the body, provide rest and drink plenty of fluids, but most often you need to start treating the damaged epidermis. It is recommended to take antioxidants - vitamins A, E, as well as green tea And pomegranate juice. Ointments on a light, absorbent base containing moisturizing and antiseptic components are suitable as agents that relieve inflammation and accelerate the regeneration of the skin. In addition, masks made from cucumber juice, grated raw potatoes or aloe juice have worked well at home.

How to apply sunburn?

Fermented milk products - yogurt, whey or kefir - are suitable as simple means at hand. The myth about the benefits of sour cream is greatly exaggerated; in addition, the fat contained in sour cream creates a lipid film, that is, ideal conditions for the development of bacterial infection in bursting blisters. A low-fat, light fermented milk product will provide the skin with a protein nutritional layer, prevent excessive evaporation of moisture and regenerate damaged epidermis.

It’s good if you have a large amount of fresh cucumbers in the house, the juice from them will quickly eliminate inflammation, moisturize the epidermis and help neutralize the consequences.

What to apply to a sunburn if not with pharmaceutical, special preparations? These products include Dexapanthenol (Bepanten), Levosin - antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ointment, Methyluracil, Solcoseryl gel, Baziron gel.

The remedy for mild sunburn can be intended for both external use and internal use.

External means: Panthenol in aerosol form (spray) - relieves inflammation of the skin well, covering it with a specific protective film. Hydrocortisone ointment, 0, 05 or 1%, depending on the age of the victim and the degree of damage to the epidermis. For erosive lesions after burst blisters, Dermazin or Olazol helps. Bepanten in the form of an ointment or cream, an antimicrobial, analgesic and regenerating drug. Cooling gels containing menthol and anesthetics. Internal medications: For elevated body temperature - paracetamol and all products containing it. Ibuprofen. Tylenol. Vitamins E. A and C. Regidron to reduce dehydration.

Panthenol for sunburn

Panthenol is most often used in aerosol form, so it is more convenient to apply it to sun-damaged skin. Panthenol for sunburn applied as a spot is good in case of damage to small areas, such as the nose. Panthenol is an effective drug that improves the restoration of the epithelium, since it contains the active component dexpanthenol (a provitamin of the coenzyme vitamin A). The retinol (vitamin A) coenzyme, in turn, is one of the components of the membrane of a healthy cell, thus Panthenol restores damaged skin. In addition, Panthenol relieves inflammation, pain and itching. Due to its hydrophilic properties (high ability to penetrate the epidermis), the drug is quickly absorbed and begins to act. Panthenol should be applied to damaged areas at least three, and preferably five times a day.

Sunburn cream

The cream must contain moisturizing, antiseptic and preferably anesthetic components, that is, it must have a complex action.

These products include creams from the cosmeceutical category. The dermatological lines of the companies Uriage, Bioderma, and Aven have proven themselves well. These are quite expensive drugs, but extremely effective for use in treatment in adults. More affordable means include Girudobalm, which well activates the blood supply to tissues, moisturizes the epidermis and relieves inflammation. The cream is applied 3-5 times a day without washing off the previous layer. Sunburn cream for babies is the well-deserved Panthenol or Bepanten. Also effective are creams with antihistamine action - Fenistil or Psilobalm. For severe, extensive, accompanied by erosion, purulent wounds, antibacterial creams and ointments are indicated, which are prescribed by a doctor.

Sunburn ointment

This is an external remedy that helps eliminate inflammation and pain. It should be remembered that the ointment must have good hydrophilic properties, that is, be well absorbed, so fatty, heavy products are not suitable for treatment. They create a specific lipid membrane under which a bacterial infection can develop. Effective external preparations include ointments containing antibacterial substances, including those of plant origin. This could be an ointment for sunburn with aloe, chamomile (Alozol), calendula or mint.

Sunburn Spray

The spray is considered the best form of topical treatment for dermal lesions. It sprays well, is absorbed and does not tighten the skin. Such sprays primarily include Panthenol in aerosol form. Sunburn spray from the Johnsons baby series is also effective. Floceta spray based on calendula and chamomile relieves irritation and itching well. Aloe First, containing aloe extract, allantoin, propolis and other healing components, promotes the regeneration of the epidermis, relieves pain and restores the epidermis. Moisturizing sprays containing thermal waters are also effective as a regular moisturizer for burned areas.

Preventing sunburn

This The best way to avoid not only the discomfort associated with harmful ultraviolet radiation, but also to reduce the risk of malignancy, that is, the provocation of oncological dermatological diseases. The most effective prevention, as aptly and figuratively put it, is tanning in the light of the moon. In fact, this is not a joke at all; today, tanning is no longer a tribute to fashion; rather, it is a serious danger to health. Prevention means following fairly simple recommendations:

1. You need to sunbathe gradually, 15-20 minutes a day, preferably not under direct sun. Maximum sun exposure should not exceed 1.5 hours, even if tolerated.

2. Before you start sunbathing, be sure to more open areas The body should be applied with a protective agent with the maximum degree of protection.

3. You must wear a hat on your head; this rule is mandatory for both adults and children.

4.The most favorable time for tanning is before 11 o’clock in the afternoon and after 16.00.

5. People who have recently taken antibacterial drugs or antibiotics should not sunbathe.

6.Pregnant women, elderly people and children under 3-4 years old should not sunbathe at all; it is best to be outside in a shady place.

7.B hot weather You need to protect your body and face from the sun as much as possible - wear closed, light, loose-fitting cotton clothing.

Prevention of sunburn does not imply categorical confinement within four walls; reasonable exposure to the rays of the sun will not only not harm, but will also help. However, you should always evaluate your condition, skin sensitivity and time spent in the sun, then ultraviolet radiation will really only bring benefits.