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Sun Burn
When our skin is exposed to the
ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun, it produces a substance
called melanin, which protects the skin and gives it color. UV
rays stimulate production of melanin. So, the more skin is exposed to
these rays, the more tanned it becomes. When our body can't produce
enough melanin to counteract the UV rays absorbed by the skin, a
sunburn results.
According to Encyclopedia Britannica
The appearance of the skin is partly due to the reddish
pigment in the blood of the superficial vessels. In the main,
however, it is determined by melanin, a pigment manufactured
by dendritic cells called melanocytes, found among the basal
cells of the epidermis. Their numbers in any one region of the
body, which range from about 1,000 to more than 2,000 per
square millimetre, are roughly the same within and between
races; the blondest whites have as many as the darkest blacks.
Colour differences are due solely to the amount of melanin
produced and the nature of the pigment granules. When the skin
becomes tanned on exposure to sunlight, the melanocytes do not
increase in number, only in activity. Not only do melanocytes
produce a tan, they are also responsible for the form of
cancer called melanoma.
Melanoma is caused by UV radiation damage to melanocytes. |
Fair-skinned people with light-colored
hair are at greatest risk of sunburn because their bodies produce
lower amounts of melanin. Environmental and genetic factors
also play roles. People with fair skin, eyes and hair -- the blue-eyed
blondes and redheads -- are particularly prone to burn easily. Because
of their genetics, they are more susceptible to skin cancer than
people with more natural pigment.
Sunburn destroys cells
on the skin's outer layer. In most cases, these burns are minor,
causing red, tender, sometimes blistered skin that sheds after several
days. Regular overexposure to the sun can age your skin prematurely,
causing sagging, wrinkling, wart-like growths, and a leathery
appearance. It also can lead to skin cancer.
Treatment
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Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help relieve sunburn pain. Its better
to avoid aspirin. |
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Anesthetic
Creams and Sprays containing benzocaine or lidocaine can be
used. It gives cooling affect and also relieves pain. |
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Antibacterial
and antimicrobial soaps and antiseptics to prevent infection can be
used. |
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Moisturizers help to prevent the skin from drying out and
tightening. Oil-based products and ointments should be avoided. |
Prevention
Sunscreens
protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
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Sunscreens are rated for their protection
ability. SPF - sun protection factor. The
higher the number, the greater the protection. One should choose the SPF
number based on ones skin type and the length of time expect
to be in the sun. Broad-spectrum sunscreens with a protection
factor of 15 or higher should be preferred. |
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Apply sunscreen liberally and frequently.
Re-apply sunscreen after swimming and after profuse seating. |
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It should be remembered that radiation is at the greatest
intensity between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m |
Skin Burns
& Cancer Melanoma
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