Prevention is better than cure! Children are particularly susceptible to sunburn and great care should be taken to avoid over-exposure to the harmful effects of the sun. It is possible to get sunburnt through light cloud or under shallow water so it is important to protect yourself whilst swimming.

Symptoms

Symptoms in mild cases of sunburn are minor skin redness and irritation.

Causes

Sunburn is literally a burn on your skin. It is a burn from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The consequence of this burn is inflammation of the skin. Injury can start within 30 minutes of exposure.

Treatment

Treat as for other burns with cold water to remove the heat. Calamine lotion will relieve the irritation whilst paracetamol will also help.

Prevention

• keep babies under six months out of the sun completely
• cover up with loose cool clothing
• wear a wide brimed or floppy hat and sunglasses
• use adequate sunscreen, SPF 20 or higher and re-apply frequently
• try to keep out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, from 11am to 3pm

Seek medical advice

Seek advice from your healthcare professional if...

• the burn is severe
• the skin is broken
• there is severe blistering
• you develop a headache
• you feel nauseous or start to vomit
• you feel disorientated or faint

Recommended web sites

Information from the BBC

Information from the National Safety Council

Very informative leaflet from Patient UK about keeping safe in the sun