One of the most common conditions customers suffer from whilst on holiday is sunburn. This is often due to incorrect application of sun protection products including using too low an SPF, not applying enough cream or lotion, applying infrequent or not re-applying after swimming in addition to staying in the sun for too long or when the sun is at its strongest.

Symptoms of Sunburn

Symptoms will vary from person to person according to their skin type and the length of time they have spent in the sun. Symptoms are not always immediately evident and usually start to appear after three to five hours after exposure to the UV rays and will often peak after 12 to 24 hours.

Mild symptoms of sunburn include:

• red, sore skin
• skin that feels arm to the touch and is tender
• flaking and peeling of the skin usually four to seven days after being in the sun

Severe symptoms of sunburn include:

• blistering
• swelling
• chills
• a feeling of discomfort
• a high temperature (fever) of 38°c (100.4°F) or above

Severe sunburn may lead to other conditions such as heatstroke, dehydration and heat exhaustion which are also covered in this module.

Treating Sunburn

Most cases of sunburn can be treated without medical intervention, a notable exception is children and babies who should not be allowed to burn but if they do then medical advice should be sought.

Cover up the skin - avoid direct sunlight, cover up the affected skin and stay in the shade until the sunburn heal

Cool the skin - it is recommended to have a lukewarm or cool shower to bring down the temperature of the skin. A cool compress or flannel can be applied to cool the affected area

Keep hydrated - drink plenty of fluids to replace any that have been lost through sweating and to help prevent dehydration. Fluids will also cool the body's temperature. Avoid drinking alcohol as this can cause dehydration.

Use a moisturiser - for mild sunburn an after sun cream or moisturising lotion can be used to cool and moisturise the skin and also help to relieve any feeling of tightness. Moisturisers containing aloe vera can help to soothe the skin.

Painkillers - these can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation

Severe sunburn may require special burn dressing or creams, refer these patients to the pharmacist.