Ky Le, MD
FAMILY MEDICINE

Dr. Le completed his medical training in Texas, after which he went to work in hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers in Texas, California, and Hawaii. He’s been practicing medicine for 13 years in Hawaii, enjoying the diversity of people and culture that the community has to offer.

<< URGENT CARE

Sunburn

To start, sunlight has its benefits. But, if we do not protect our skin from the harsh rays, it can be damaging. Particularly, children and elderly people have very delicate skin. Their skin is more sensitive. Therefore, it can burn easily. This article will discuss sunburn and the best way to heal sunburn.

Book Now

Best way to heal sunburn

To start, sun damage can cause skin cancer. Therefore, it is critical to protect yourself against it. There are ways to heal sunburn. The best ways to heal sunburn are below.

Understanding sunlight and the skin

In brief, the ultraviolet rays from the sun are harsh. In fact, there are two main types of damaging ultraviolet rays from the sunlight. For instance:

UVA

In summation, UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin. They cause damage. To note, it damages the middle layer of the dermis. To be specific, the dermal layer contains elastic tissues to keep the skin stretch. Damage from UVA rays triggers early aging and wrinkles.

UVB

In contrast, UVB rays absorb through the top layer of skin.  In fact, we call this layer the epidermis. Additionally, harmful effects of the rays can be from tanning without sun protection. Simple overexposure to sunshine may also cause burning.
 
In brief, both rays are harmful.  Thus, they both increase the chance of developing skin cancer. The colored pigmentation in our skin is called melanin. Importantly, the body produces more melanin to help protect the skin against the UV rays when exposed to sunlight. Specifically, when exposed for long periods of time, the skin gets darker. Of note, melanin does not avert the harmful effects of UV rays on your body. It just prevents your skin from burning easily.

Who is at risk from the sun?

Excessive exposure to the sun puts everybody at risk. Some people are more at risk than others. In fact, people with lighter skin tones have less melanin. Therefore, they are more at more risk of burning than those with darker skin. For example, we categorize those with fair skin and red hair to be at higher risk for sun damage. Also, people with blue eyes and freckles are more at risk than dark-skinned people. To note, dark-skinned people can still get sunburnt.

Outdoor workers and laborers are also at risk. People whom are outdoors without skin protection are at risk, too. Excellent methods of skin protection include wearing long-sleeved t-shirts, hats, and applying sunscreen. In summation, everyone is at risk from the sun when exposed. Further, people who sunbathe are not the only at-risk population.

It is especially true in the following cases.

  • Firstly, remember to use extra sun protection if you live in a country, close to the Equator.
  • To add, use extra precation if you live or work at a high altitude.
  • Lastly, avoid being outside when the sun’s rays are the harshest.

Who is at risk from the sun?

Overexposure to the sun causes sunburn. The skin becomes hot to touch. It also becomes red and painful. After a few days, the skin may peel off too.

What are the best ways to heal sunburn?

Sunburns may be painful. The best ways to heal sunburn include the following. For example:

  • Firstly, make yourself a cool bath.
  • Secondly, apply soothing creams.
  • Thirdly, use After-sun lotions post excessive sun exposure.
  • Lastly, if the pain is intolerable, you can take pain killers.

Importantly, seek medical advice if the burn is severe.

Book Now

ALL MAJOR INSURANCE ACCEPTED

 

Visit with a board-certified Hawaii doctor online or by phone.

 

LEARN MORE

 

Here’s what people are saying

FOUNDED BY PHYSICIANS

We're trusted by local individuals and organizations.