MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Sunburn

Medical Encyclopedia

Sunburn

Overexposure to the sun causes sunburn. The ultraviolet rays of the sun can produce a painful burn that can be as severe as first or second degree. Reflection of water, sand or snow can also intensify the sun's burning rays. The best protection against sunburn is prevention. Avoid sun exposure during the peak hours of the sun's rays and apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Protect the eyes with sunglasses that have UV protection and use a lip balm with sunscreen. Years of unprotected sun exposure can cause premature aging and cancer of the skin.

Update Date: 6/9/2008

Updated by: John E. Duldner, Jr., MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine Akron General Medical Center and Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.