Draft for clinical review: this educational text and illustration require clinician approval before publication.
Image: Ultraviolet exposure and skin inflammation. Original schematic illustration, not a patient photograph. Colours and shapes are simplified and are not diagnostic.
Understanding Sunburn
Sunburn is inflammation caused by excessive ultraviolet exposure. Skin may feel hot, tender or swollen and can later peel or blister. Redness may be less obvious on darker skin, so pain and heat also matter. Repeated exposure damages skin even when there is no dramatic visible burn.
Common symptoms
- Hot, tender or swollen skin after sun exposure.
- Redness or a change in colour that varies with skin tone.
- Peeling or blisters after a stronger burn.
Causes and contributing factors
Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or artificial sources damages skin. Altitude, time outdoors and reflected light affect exposure. Cloud cover and a tan do not reliably prevent damage.
How the condition is assessed
Severity depends on the area affected, blistering, hydration and general symptoms. A clinician should assess a severe burn or a burn in a young child. Some medicines can increase light sensitivity and should be discussed with the prescriber.
Care and treatment considerations
Leave the sun, cool the skin gently, drink fluids and avoid further exposure. Do not apply ice directly or deliberately burst blisters. For prevention, combine shade and protective clothing with suitable broad-spectrum sunscreen rather than using sunscreen to extend time in strong sun.
When to seek medical help
Seek prompt care for extensive blistering, severe pain, dehydration or sunburn in a baby. Confusion, collapse, severe weakness or suspected heatstroke requires emergency assessment.
Patient questions
Can darker skin get sunburned?
Yes. More pigment offers some protection but does not eliminate sunburn or other ultraviolet damage.
Does peeling mean I should scrub the skin off?
No. Let peeling skin settle without picking or scrubbing, which can increase irritation and the risk of injury.
Dermatology consultation in Birgunj
For an individual skin assessment, request a consultation with Dr. Rohit Gupta at the dermatology clinic in Birgunj. View appointment options. Use urgent or emergency services for the warning signs described above; do not wait for a routine appointment.
Reference and medical information notice
Further reading: DermNet: Sunburn. The reference is independent of the clinic; linking does not imply endorsement or review by DermNet.
This original educational summary does not diagnose a rash or replace personal medical advice. No clinician review, treatment guarantee or direct quotation from Dr. Rohit Gupta is claimed.