You all know sunburn is bad, but do you think sun poisoning is worse? It not only fast-tracks the visibility of premature aging signs but also increases the probability of skin cancer. What’s more, it looks quite ridiculous! But the irony is, it happens and it happens fast!

Here we have whittled down a guide for you to understand the difference between sunburn and sun poisoning and tips to soothe your sun-ravaged skin. 

What is a sunburn?

A sunburn is damage that occurs to your skin upon exposure to excessive amounts of ultraviolet rays from the sun or tanning beds. The sun emits two types of light namely UVA and UVB that affect the uppermost layer of the skin. This is the main cause of sunburn and thus a significant contributor to the development of skin cancer. On the contrary UV radiation causes damage to your DNA cells resulting in inflammation, pain, peeling, and redness. 

Identifying sunburn and its severity

The best way to go about this is to categorize sunburn into three categories. You can grade these into different degrees, namely first, second, and third like you do in other causes. First-degree affects your epidermis which is the uppermost layer of your skin showing redness, mild blisters, and swelling. Your skin may also peel but the bright side is it will recover on its own without having to get any treatment. 

A second degree on the contrary affects the second layer of your skin presenting blisters, shininess, discoloration along pain. You can treat it at home but it is advisable to consult a doctor for assessment. 

A third-degree sunburn may also occur which would affect all your skin layers and thus require urgent treatment. These are the most severe as the skin tissue beneath your skin is also badly damaged. Symptoms include blackening, charring, and whiteness of skin.  

What is sun poisoning?

Sun poisoning also known as photodermatitis is a severe type of sunburn due to prolonged exposure to the UV rays of the sun. Besides the typical soreness and distress, associated with a sunburn, other symptoms may also occur. 

People with a pale complexion, light hair, blue and green eyes are prevalent causes of sun poisoning. Those who take medication like birth control and antibiotics are also at great risk of being affected by it. 

Symptoms of sunburn and sun poisoning

Though the symptoms of sunburn and sun poisoning may be similar sun poisoning is more severe as it causes additional symptoms. Both these can increase the probability of your skin experiencing changes like moles, patches, itching, and bleeding. 

Inflammation and blisters

Inflammation and blistering are the symptoms of sunburn and sun poisoning. When the innermost cells of your skin are damaged upon penetration of the epidermis, sunburn ultimately gives way to inflammation. So, to repair this damage, your body responds by sending blood to the affected parts which leads to redness and swelling. In very severe cases, blistering occurs to heal the damaged skin on its own. 

Though sun poisoning is often manifested as blistering and swelling of the skin, it must be noted that these symptoms are far more serious when compared to sunburn. intense inflammatory reactions like tenderness, blistering, and redness are among the symptoms of sun poisoning. These blisters are quite painful and may also get infected with pus or fluid. 

To recover from sun poisoning, it is suggested you keep the affected area dry and clean and limit sun exposure until you are sure that your skin is completely healed. You can use cool compresses or over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen to reduce the discomfort and also apply topical ointments such as hydrocortisone and aloe to soothe the inflamed area. 

Nausea dehydration

The inflammatory response of your body to sunburn or sun poisoning may cause fever and nausea. These need medical attention as they show how your body is reacting to the impact of UV radiation. As you lose fluid with vomiting you may also experience dehydration recognized by dry mouth, thirst, dizziness, and weakness. When your body mounts an immune defense against UV radiation, you may get a fever coupled with muscle fatigue and chills. Common signs of sun poisoning are nausea, dehydration, and fever. 

Skin peeling

This happens when the epidermis begins to shed particularly a few days before sun exposure characterized by dryness, flaking, and itchiness. The skin underneath the peeled one may be rendered vulnerable to infection. 

Preventing sunburn and sun poisoning

Get out of the sun

The first thing you must do when you realize your skin is sunburned is to get out of the sun. Yes, we urge you to get out of the sun as it is the main causes of sunburn. It is ideal to cover the affected area. If it is your face that has been affected you must conceal it by donning a wide hat and run towards the shade to prevent more damage. Coating the exposed body parts with a good amount of sunscreen with SPF 50 is also great.

Wash carefully

When you bathe it is best to avoid hot showers at all costs. This is because these are likely to cause dryness on your skin and only add to the heat-affected patch. Your skin may experience discomfort due to the pressure of a strong shower so it's best you opt for a gentle bath with lukewarm water. Luke warm water will soothe your skin. 

Considering the use of products, you must avoid scrubs and harsh formulations and go for gentle cleansing gels or creams that you can smear on before rinsing. Shaving the affected area is strictly a no-no. 

Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential if you are suffering from sunburn. For this, it is recommended to drink plenty of water as this makes a real difference. At least 8 glasses of water should be taken every single day to prevent dehydration. You can carry a water bottle with you as you go out in the heat. 

After sun products

Embracing soothing products after you are exposed to the sun prevent sunburns and sun poisoning. This is because it does wonders to replenish the moisture levels in your skin and heal it effectively. Ingredients such as aloe may help in reducing inflammation while coconut oil and shea butter keep your skin hydrated. When it comes to delicate parts of your skin such as the face, you may apply a healing mask designed specifically for your skin type. Applying it after keeping it in the fridge will deliver a cooling impact like no other. 

Protect your skin

Even if you feel the affected area has healed, you must avoid going in the sun at all costs. Do your skin a favor by wearing loose clothing that does not stick to your skin. avoid waistbands, tight straps, and nylon material, and wear your hat and sunglasses at all times. 

Final Verdict

Girls as much as sunburn and sun poisoning may affect your skin, it goes without saying you can prevent its impact with helpful measures. Staying away from the sun, wearing protective clothing, using after-sun products and hydration are essential for you to maintain healthy skin.