Joel Schlessinger MD FAQ - Sunburn

Joel Schlessinger, MD
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS ABOUT
SUNBURN
Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit
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When skin is exposed to intense sunlight, it can burn
quickly. After just 10 minutes, skin begins to defend itself
with an inflammatory reaction, signaling that cells are
being damaged and are in need of repair. This reaction is
what gives sunburn its red appearance. Blood also rushes
to the damaged area to assist with the healing process,
rendering skin warm to the touch long after the initial
burn. In the later stages of a sunburn, skin peels as a way
to rid itself of damaged cells that could prove cancerous or
otherwise dangerous to the body.
Not only are they painful and unsightly, the damage from
a sunburn is lasting. A person’s risk for skin cancer more
than doubles after they have suffered five sunburns, and
signs of photo-aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles and dark
spots, may manifest down the road.
What happens to skin during a sunburn?
Before After

The main symptom of sunburn is
reddened skin that may feel tingly
and warm or hot to the touch.
Severe sunburns may be
accompanied by blistering, swelling
and flu-like symptoms such as fever,
headache, nausea and general
weakness. Burns almost always
result in peeling several days after
initial sun exposure, and skin may
grow itchy and dry.
What are the symptoms of sunburn?
Before After

Sunburn can affect anyone of any age or
skin color, and anyone who steps outside is
at risk for developing one. However, the
following individuals are especially at risk:
• Those with fair skin tones
• Those who live or visit places with high
altitude or intense sunlight
• Those who take certain medications
such as Accutane
• Those who use potent anti-aging
ingredients such as hydroquinone and
retinol
Who is at risk for getting a sunburn?
Before After

While it’s best to avoid sunburn
altogether by wearing a high-quality
sunscreen and taking other
measures to protect yourself from
harmful rays, mistakes can happen. If
you find yourself or a family member
suffering from sunburn after a day
outdoors, follow these steps to help
minimize damage and expedite
healing.
What are the best ways to care for a sunburn?
Before After

Though a sunburn can take 4-6 hours to
develop, it’s possible to notice skin reddening
while you are still exposed to the sun. In this
case, go indoors immediately and take the
recommended dosage of ibuprofen. This will
help with pain, swelling and redness and have
an anti-inflammatory effect. Continue taking
ibuprofen as directed for the next 48 hours,
and drink plenty of cold water to stay hydrated
and help regulate temperature. If you have
spent the day outdoors, keep an eye on skin
for the remainder of the day to be sure you
have not developed a sunburn.
1. Go indoors and take ibuprofen.
Before After

Taking a cool bath or shower will
help regulate an elevated body
temperature and it will work to
soothe and comfort skin. If
cleansing, do not use a washcloth,
loofah or any exfoliating formulas.
This will help you avoid irritation.
2. Take a cool bath or shower.
Before After

Never pick at flaky skin or blisters. A moisturizing gel
or lotion can soothe skin and help minimize redness
and peeling. Be sure to use a breathable, lightweight
formula and avoid applying too much since heavier
creams can trap in heat and cause skin to be redder
longer. We recommend LovelySkin Aloe Vera Soothing
Skin Relief Gel and derma e Vitamin E Intensive
Therapy Body Lotion.
The Skin Cancer Foundation also recommends
applying a hydrocortisone product, like FixMySkin
Healing Body Balm Unscented with 1%
Hydrocortisone, to the affected area for one to two
days to alleviate pain, itching and discomfort.
3. Apply a moisturizing product.
Before After

Luckily, most sunburns may be
treated at home, even when they are
accompanied by blisters. However,
there are certain circumstances that
require medical attention. If blisters
cover more than 20% of the body or
if you experience fever and chills,
seek a physician’s care immediately.
4. Be honest when you assess the damage.
Before After

View your sunburn as a learning
experience and a way to get to know
your skin’s needs. Next time you’re
outdoors, you can apply sunscreen
more evenly and more often, cover
up with protective clothing, seek
shade and take Heliocare, a sun
protection supplement that can help
strengthen skin against damage.
5. Vow to do better next time.
After

Here’s how you can find out
more about Dr. Joel Schlessinger:
- Facebook http://www.facebook.com/drjoelschlessinger
- Twitter http://www.twitter.com/drschlessinger
- Blogs http://drjoelschlessinger.com/
http://drjoelschlessinger.wordpress.com/

Joel Schlessinger MD FAQ - Sunburn

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Joel Schlessinger MD FAQ - Sunburn