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Tips To Manage Sunburn And Tanning: As the warmer seasons approach, many people enjoy soaking up the sun's warmth, aiming for a sun-kissed glow. However, it's crucial to discern between sunburn and tanning to maintain skin health and prevent lasting damage. Dr Ajay Rana, The author is an internationally renowned Dermatologist, Surgeon & Aesthetic Physician, the Founder and Director of ILAMED & Dermalyn Aesthetics listed about nuances of sunburn versus tanning and offers tips for managing both effectively.

Difference Between Sunburn and Tanning

Sunburn and tanning are both skin responses to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, but they represent opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of skin damage.

Sunburn

Sunburn occurs when the skin is excessively exposed to UV radiation, particularly UVB rays. It presents as redness, pain, swelling, and, in severe cases, blistering. Sunburn indicates an overwhelmed skin defence system, leading to inflammation and DNA damage within skin cells. Prolonged or recurrent sunburns significantly heighten the risk of skin cancer and premature ageing.

Tanning

Tanning is the skin's natural defence against UV radiation. When exposed to UV rays, the skin produces melanin, a pigment that absorbs UV light and shields underlying skin layers from damage. This process darkens the skin, commonly known as a tan. While tanning offers some protection against further UV exposure, any change in skin colour signifies damage and an increased risk of skin cancer over time.

Tips To Manage Sunburn And Tanning (Image Credits: Canva)

Sunburn Management Tips

Seek shade: Limit sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Cool compresses: Apply cool, damp cloths or take cool showers to soothe and reduce discomfort.

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids and prevent dehydration.

Moisturise: Use gentle, hydrating lotions or aloe vera gel to soothe sunburned skin and aid healing.

Over-the-counter remedies: Consider using pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin to alleviate inflammation and pain.

Avoid further sun exposure: Protect sunburned skin to prevent exacerbating symptoms and aid healing.

Tanning Management Tips

Gradual exposure: Increase sun exposure gradually to minimise the risk of sunburn and allow the skin to acclimate to UV radiation.

Use sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours and after swimming or sweating.

Protective clothing: Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts to shield the skin from UV rays.

Tips To Manage Sunburn And Tanning (Image Credits: Canva)

Self-tanning products: Consider using self-tanning lotions or sprays as a safer alternative to achieve a tan without UV exposure.

Monitor skin changes: Pay attention to changes in moles, freckles, or other skin lesions, promptly consulting a dermatologist if any concerning developments occur.

Understanding the difference between sunburn and tanning is crucial for promoting skin health and preventing sun-related damage. While sunburn indicates overexposure to harmful UV radiation and requires immediate attention, tanning represents the skin's protective response. By adopting effective sun protection measures and practising sun safety habits, individuals can enjoy the sun responsibly while minimising the risk of sunburn, tanning, and long-term skin damage. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to sun exposure.