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How to Treat Severe Sunburn

February 1, 2024 by admin Category: How To

You are viewing the article How to Treat Severe Sunburn  at Tnhelearning.edu.vn you can quickly access the necessary information in the table of contents of the article below.

X

This article was co-written by Mohiba Tareen, MD. Mohiba Tareen is a dermatologist and founder of Tareen Dermatpogy based in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed her medical degree at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha society. During her time as a resident in dermatology at Cpumbia University in New York City, she won the New York Dermatological Society’s Conrad Stritzler Award and appeared in The New England Journal of Medicine. Tareen then completed a doctoral program specializing in skin surgery, laser and cosmetic dermatology.

There are 16 references cited in this article that you can view at the bottom of the page.

This article has been viewed 6,367 times.

Everyone knows that the sun is very harmful to the skin. However, many people still “make mistakes” and forget to apply sunscreen every day. Perhaps you are among them. High intensity ultraviolet (UVR) rays can directly damage your DNA. [1] X Research source Matsumura Y, Ananthaswamy HN. Toxic effects of ultravipet radiation on the skin. Toxicp Appl Pharmacp. 2004 Mar 15. 195(3):298-308. [Medline]. While shorter exposure to the sun can result in an attractive tan (hyperpigmentation to protect itself from UV rays), any form of UVR exposure over time are harmful to any skin type. At the same time, avoiding overexposure is necessary to prevent skin cancer. [2] X Research Sources Narbutt J, Lesiak A, Sysa-Jedrzejowska A, Boncela J, Wozniacka A, Norval M. Repeated exposures of humans to low doses of spar simulated radiation lead to limited photoadaptation and photoprotection against UVB-induced erythema and cytokine mRNA up-regulation. J Dermatp Sci. 2007 Mar. 45(3):210-2. [Medline]. While it can be very painful, most sunburns are considered first-degree facial burns – the mildest of burns. If you have been exposed to the sun and suffer from a sunburn, existing damage is irreversible. However, there are ways to help relieve pain and discomfort while you wait for the wound to heal. Also, luckily, almost any sunburn can be treated at home.

Table of Contents

  • Steps
    • Sun burn treatment
    • Pain control
    • Understand the dangers of sunburn
  • Advice

Steps

Sun burn treatment

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 1

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 1

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Wash the burned area. Use mild soap and cool/warm water. [3] X Research Sources

  • You can apply a cool, damp washcloth to the burned area. However, care should be taken to avoid any form of rubbing as that can irritate the skin. Gently place the towel on the skin. Make sure the water temperature is not too cold – even after a burn, using water that is too cold can lead to negative effects on the skin (cooling the burned skin too quickly with excessive cold will slow healing and increased risk of frostbite injury in the upper part of the burn). [4] X Research Sources
  • If the burn continues to be irritated, you can ease this symptom by showering regularly or soaking in cool (moderate) water. [5] X Trusted Source American Academy of Dermatpogy Go to Source
  • Do not completely dry the wound, the remaining moisture will aid the skin’s healing process.
Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 2

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 2

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Consult a doctor if blistering occurs. When you have a severe burn, you will probably face blisters and pus oozing from them. It is important to keep the injured area clean by washing under running water with a mild soap. Blisters indicate that you have a second-degree burn and need to be concerned about an infection. At this point, it is necessary to see a doctor. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and puncture the blister if needed. [6] X Research Sources

  • Silver sulfadiazine (1% cream, Thermazene) can be used to treat sunburn. It acts as an antibiotic, helping to prevent infection in sensitive and damaged skin. [7] X Research Sources
  • While it may be tempting to pop the blisters yourself, doing so puts you at high risk of infection. Because the skin is already damaged, it cannot effectively defend against bacterial attack. Therefore, it is best to let your doctor handle them with sterile instruments and environments.
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Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 3

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 3

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Cold compress. If you don’t have a cold pack, dip a towel in ice water and apply it to the sunburned area. [8] X Trusted Source National Health Service (UK) Go to Source

  • Use a closed cold pack several times a day, for 10-15 minutes each time. [9] X Trusted Source American Academy of Dermatpogy Go to Source
Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 4

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 4

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Apply aloe vera gel to the affected area. Aloe vera gel or soy-based moisturizers are a good choice because they cool the burn. Studies show that aloe helps burns heal faster. A study of the available scientific literature showed that patients treated with aloe healed (on average) almost nine days faster than those who did not take aloe vera [10] X Research Source

  • In general, as recommended by medical professionals, aloe works best when used for minor burns and skin irritations. Also, never use aloe vera on an open wound. [11] X Research Source
  • For soy-based moisturizers, look for natural and organic ingredients listed on the packaging. A good example is the Aveeno brand, which can be easily found on online stores like Lazada. Soybean is a plant with natural humectants, helping to retain moisture and repair damaged skin. [12] X Research Source
  • Avoid using lotions or creams that contain benzocaine or lidocaine. Although widely used in the past, they can cause irritation and allergies. Avoid petroleum jelly (also known under the brand name Vaseline). Petroleum can clog pores, making it impossible for the skin to dissipate heat and recover properly. [13] X Research Source
Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 5

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 5

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Keep the burn clean and moist. Avoid using lotions that are too strong and scented as they can irritate the skin more.

  • Continue to use aloe vera, soy-based moisturizer, or soothing lotion with oatmeal. These products are currently recommended by many doctors and they will help keep the skin moisturized with minimal irritation, thereby, supporting the body’s self-healing process. [14] X Research Source
  • Continue rinsing with cool water in the shower or tub throughout the day if any burning is still felt. It can be done several times to maintain skin moisture.
Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 6

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 6

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Avoid the sun while the skin is healing. Further exposure may result in further skin damage and in many cases, medical attention will be required. Skin needs protection, so make sure it’s covered when exposed to the sun or any other strong UVR source.

  • Use a non-irritating cloth to cover sunburn (especially, avoid wool and cashmere).
  • There is no “best” fabric. Any breathable, comfortable, and loose-fitting fabric (such as cotton) will help keep you comfortable and help protect your skin from the sun.
  • Wear a hat to protect your face from harmful UV rays from the sun. Facial skin is especially sensitive and covering up with a hat when going out is advisable.
  • When considering fabrics and protective clothing, viewing the fabric under light is a good test. Most clothing with skin protection will allow very little light to pass through. [15] X Trusted Source American Academy of Dermatpogy Go to Source
  • Avoid being in the street between 10am and 4pm. This is the time when you are most susceptible to sunburn.
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Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 7

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 7

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Patient. Sunburn will go away on its own. Most sunburns go away on their own within a few days to a few weeks. If you have a second-degree burn with blistering, the recovery time may be longer, up to approximately 3 weeks. With medical attention, second-degree blistering burns heal faster. Usually, sunburn can heal completely without leaving any marks or, if any, very faint. [16] X Research Source

Pain control

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 8

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 8

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Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Follow all dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer.

  • Ibuprofen: An over-the-counter medication that reduces inflammation, redness, and pain. When treating sunburn, ibuprofen is usually given to adults for short periods of time at 400mg every six hours. Follow your doctor’s instructions or the directions for use printed on the packaging. Children under 6 months of age should not take ibuprofen. Please follow the instructions on the bottle exactly. [17] X Research Source
  • Naproxen: Your doctor may choose to take naproxen if ibuprofen doesn’t work for you. The strength of this drug is that its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects last longer once started. Naproxen can be found in over-the-counter medicines, such as Aleve. [18] X Trusted Source Mayo Clinic Go to Source
    • Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and as such, may lead to some stomach upset. [19] X Research Source
Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 9

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 9

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Use vinegar to relieve pain. The acetic acid present in vinegar has the effect of reducing pain, itching and inflammation. Add a cup of white apple cider vinegar to warm bath water and soak the wound. Or, alternatively, you can use a cotton swab soaked in vinegar and dab it on the most painful area of the burn. Dot lightly, do not wipe. You won’t want any rubbing at the surface of the burn. [20] X Research Source
Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 10

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 10

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Use pure witch hazel. Wet cotton gauze or a washcloth with this astringent and anti-inflammatory solution and then apply it to the skin three to four times a day for 20 minutes each time, to minimize pain and itching. [21] X Research Source

  • Pure witch hazel has very few side effects and is completely safe for children.

Understand the dangers of sunburn

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 11

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 11

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See your doctor if you think you have sun poisoning. Sun poisoning is the term used to describe severe sunburns and reactions to UV rays (dermatitis). If blistering occurs, the burn is very painful, or is accompanied by fever, extreme thirst, or fatigue, seek medical attention immediately. They could be a sign of a more serious medical condition. Maybe it’s due to genetic susceptibility. In addition, metabolic causes can also stem from a deficiency of vitamin B3 or niacin. [22] X Research Sources This article covers the typical symptoms and treatment of sunburn. Of these, the most severe symptoms, which require medical attention, include:

  • Blisters – you may experience itching and swelling in areas of skin that are overexposed to the sun.
  • Rash – along with swelling or blistering, the affected area is very susceptible to a rash, whether it itch or not. These rashes can look similar to eczema.
  • Swelling – Overexposed skin can be painful and red.
  • Fever, nausea, headache and chills – they can be the result of sun sensitivity and excessive heat exposure.
  • If any of the above symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately to be thoroughly checked for the severity of your sunburn. [23] X Research Sources
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Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 12

Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 12

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Be aware of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancer today. They are directly related to sun exposure and appear mainly on the face, ears, and hands. The risk of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, doubles in people with five or more sunburns. Importantly, if you have a severe sunburn, your risk of melanoma is higher. [24] X Research Source
  • Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 13

    Image titled Treat a Severe Sunburn Step 13

    {“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/d/d0/Treat-a-Severe-Sunburn-Step-13-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Treat-a- Severe-Sunburn-Step-13-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d0/Treat-a-Severe-Sunburn-Step-13- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Treat-a-Severe-Sunburn-Step-13-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}
    Be careful with heat stroke. Heatstroke occurs when the body cannot regulate its temperature and the body temperature continues to rise. Because sun exposure can lead to both severe sunburn and heatstroke, many people with severe sunburn are also at risk for heatstroke. The main signs of heatstroke are:

    • Hot, red and dry skin
    • The pulse is strong and fast
    • High body temperature
    • Nausea or vomiting [25] X Trusted Source Centers for Disease Contrp and Prevention Go to source
  • Advice

    • Until completely healed, avoid exposing the burned skin to direct sunlight.
    • Sometimes it takes up to 48 hours for a sunburn to fully manifest.
    • Do not use ice to treat burns as it can further damage sensitive skin. Always use cool water to stop the burning process.
    • Always use a broad spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher. Don’t forget to reapply, especially after sweating or getting in the water.
    X

    This article was co-written by Mohiba Tareen, MD. Mohiba Tareen is a dermatologist and founder of Tareen Dermatpogy based in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed her medical degree at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha society. During her time as a resident in dermatology at Cpumbia University in New York City, she won the New York Dermatological Society’s Conrad Stritzler Award and appeared in The New England Journal of Medicine. Tareen then completed a doctoral program specializing in skin surgery, laser and cosmetic dermatology.

    There are 16 references cited in this article that you can view at the bottom of the page.

    This article has been viewed 6,367 times.

    Everyone knows that the sun is very harmful to the skin. However, many people still “make mistakes” and forget to apply sunscreen every day. Perhaps you are among them. High intensity ultraviolet (UVR) rays can directly damage your DNA. [1] X Research source Matsumura Y, Ananthaswamy HN. Toxic effects of ultravipet radiation on the skin. Toxicp Appl Pharmacp. 2004 Mar 15. 195(3):298-308. [Medline]. While shorter exposure to the sun can result in an attractive tan (hyperpigmentation to protect itself from UV rays), any form of UVR exposure over time are harmful to any skin type. At the same time, avoiding overexposure is necessary to prevent skin cancer. [2] X Research Sources Narbutt J, Lesiak A, Sysa-Jedrzejowska A, Boncela J, Wozniacka A, Norval M. Repeated exposures of humans to low doses of spar simulated radiation lead to limited photoadaptation and photoprotection against UVB-induced erythema and cytokine mRNA up-regulation. J Dermatp Sci. 2007 Mar. 45(3):210-2. [Medline]. While it can be very painful, most sunburns are considered first-degree facial burns – the mildest of burns. If you have been exposed to the sun and suffer from a sunburn, existing damage is irreversible. However, there are ways to help relieve pain and discomfort while you wait for the wound to heal. Also, luckily, almost any sunburn can be treated at home.

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