Sunburn Research
When a person has too much exposure to ultra-violet B rays, sunburn will develop within one hour to one day depending upon skin pigment and amount of sun exposure. With the start of sunburn, the skin becomes red, painful and swollen. Blisters may develop and the skin may peel. If sunburn is severe, the person may have chills, fever and possibility of shock. Also low blood pressure and fainting with complete loss of energy and strength could occur.
Prevention of sunburn can be done by staying out of direct sunlight. Clothes or window glass will shield against sunlight, but water, clouds or fog will not provide any protection. Before getting in sunlight apply a sunscreen all over skin that will be exposed. The first light sting of heat you feel from the sunlight should be a signal to promptly get out of the sun. There are many over-the-counter lotions and salves that will help relief of pain, but unless it is a mild sunburn it is going to take several days to completely heal the damaged areas. A person with a large area of damaged skin from sunburn is at high risk of infection. If infection develops, it may be necessary to have antibiotics as directed by a doctor.
