Sunburn occurs as the body's response to overexposure from ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun. The sun emits three types of ultraviolet radiation, UVC, UVB and UVA. UVC is screened out by the Earth's ozone layer. UVB is the most active radiation from the sun to cause sunburn, and the amount of UVB light increases by 4% for every 1,000 feet of altitude. UVA radiation penetrates the skin more deeply than UVC or UVB. UVA light is responsible for sagging, thickening and premature aging. Lamps in the tanning salon emit primarily UVA light. Throughout the day, the sun's rays are strongest between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M.

Applying sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside will provide protection from the sun. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a measure of a person's response to developing sunburn from UVB radiation. SPF does not measure protection from UVA radiation. The first agent added to sunscreen to protect against UVA light was Parsol 1789 (avobenzone). It offers the best protection from UVA radiation.

When deciding which sunscreen product to buy, keep the following in mind. A sunscreen with Parsol 1789 (avobenzone) and an SPF of 15 to 30+ will reduce the UVB and UVA exposure to the skin. Some good sunscreen products are: Coppertone SPF 30 sunblock lotion with Parsol 1789, Sea and Ski SPF 30+ Parsol 1789, Pre Sun Ultra SPF 30 gel or cream, Neutrogena Healthy Defense Oil Free UVA/UVB SPF 15, and Ombrelle SPF 28 for Kids. Children may have sunscreen applied to their skin starting at six months of age.

The treatment of sunburn combines pain relief, hydration, and protection of the skin. Initially, minor sunburns could be treated with cool compresses or a cool bath. Using nonprescription oral analgesics for pain relief is recommended (i.e., aspirin—do not administer to children under the age of 18, unless ordered by a doctor, NSAIDS like ibuprofen or acetaminophen). Topical anesthetic, such as benzocaine, lidocaine cream or ointments, and hydrocortisone 1% cream or ointment may be used to reduce redness, and inflammation. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and add a skin protectant as often as necessary. Skin protectants are products that contain the following ingredients: allantoin, cocoa butter, petrolatum-like Vaseline. Aloe gel may also be used topically for its wound-healing properties.

If the sunburn does not improve in 7 days or worsens during of after treatment, you should consult a physician. Suffering multiple sunburns throughout your life is a major risk factor for malignant melanoma.

Before going out in the sun, remember the 4 S's. SLIP on a shirt that is tight knit so the sun cannot penetrate through it. SLOP on some sunscreen with SPF 15-30+ and Parsol 1789. SLAP on a hat with a 4-inch brim all the way around that covers the ears. SLIDE on some sunglasses that can block UVA/UVB light.

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