What is Sunburn and Its Symptoms?

**Sunburn** is an inflammatory response of the skin to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from the sun. It damages the skin's outermost layers, leading to a range of symptoms.

**Symptoms of Sunburn**:

1. **Redness**: The skin turns red due to increased blood flow to the affected area.

2. **Pain and Tenderness**: The skin feels sore and tender to the touch.

3. **Swelling**: Inflammation can cause the skin to swell.

4. **Blistering**: Severe sunburn can lead to blisters filled with fluid.

5. **Peeling**: As the skin heals, it may peel off.

6. **Itching**: Healing skin can become itchy.

7. **Systemic Symptoms**: Severe sunburns can cause fever, chills, nausea, and fatigue.

### How Long Does It Last?

The duration of sunburn depends on the severity:

- **Mild Sunburn**: Typically lasts for about 3 to 5 days. It may involve some redness and mild discomfort.

- **Moderate Sunburn**: Can last up to a week. It includes redness, pain, and possibly some swelling and peeling.

- **Severe Sunburn**: Can last for several weeks. It involves intense redness, severe pain, significant swelling, and large blisters.

### How to Treat Sunburn?

1. **Cool the Skin**: Apply a cool, damp cloth or take a cool bath to reduce heat and pain.

2. **Hydration**: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

3. **Moisturize**: Use aloe vera gel or a moisturizing lotion to soothe the skin. Avoid products with alcohol, which can dry the skin further.

4. **Pain Relief**: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can reduce pain and inflammation.

5. **Hydrocortisone Cream**: A mild corticosteroid cream can reduce redness and swelling.

6. **Avoid Further Sun Exposure**: Protect the affected area from additional UV exposure until it heals.

7. **Stay Hydrated**: Drink extra water to help your body recover.

8. **Avoid Tight Clothing**: Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the skin.

### What Sunburned Persons Shouldn't Do?

1. **Avoid Scratching or Popping Blisters**: This can lead to infection and slow down the healing process.

2. **Do Not Use Harsh Soaps or Hot Water**: These can further irritate the skin.

3. **Avoid Reapplying Sunscreen on Sunburned Skin**: Use gentle moisturizers instead.

4. **Don't Cover Sunburn with Makeup**: Let the skin breathe and heal naturally.

5. **Avoid Ice Directly on the Skin**: Ice can cause further damage; use cool compresses instead.

6. **Don't Forget to Stay Out of the Sun**: Protect the skin from further UV exposure by staying indoors or wearing protective clothing.

### Additional Information for Readers:

- **Prevention is Key**: The best way to deal with sunburn is to prevent it. This includes using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours.

- **Understand UV Index**: Educate readers about the UV index and how it affects the risk of sunburn.

- **Long-term Effects**: Repeated sunburns increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. It's essential to protect the skin consistently.

- **Aftercare**: Proper aftercare includes moisturizing the skin, staying hydrated, and monitoring for signs of severe reactions or infections.

- **When to See a Doctor**: Seek medical attention if the sunburn covers a large area, causes severe pain, or is accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or dehydration.