Expert Advice for Painful Sunburn

The Independent asked Dr Ross Perry to share his expertise on skin health for a feature on sunburn:

“How to soothe painful sunburn”

Sunburn should never be underestimated. As the article explains, although the sunburn itself usually heals within a few days, its harmful effects on the skin are irreversible and may include loss of collagen, pigmentation/dark spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

What causes sunburn?

Sunburn is caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. These rays damage the skin, leading to redness, pain, and other uncomfortable symptoms. It is an inflammatory response caused primarily by UVB rays, although it’s also important to protect the skin against UVA rays, which can be more harmful in the long term.

Understanding UVB vs UVA rays

UVB rays are primarily responsible for causing sunburn. They have higher energy and directly damage the top layers of your skin.
UVA rays don’t cause sunburn as directly, they penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to skin damage over time, leading to premature aging and indirectly increasing the risk of skin cancer.

Sun protection

Both types of UV rays are harmful, and it’s essential to protect your skin by using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

In addition, avoid the sun’s peak hours, wear protective clothing, and seek shade while outdoors.

If you realise your skin is getting sunburned then it’s time to come indoors straightaway. You can apply cool compresses to the affected area to reduce the temperature. If the skin is painful, take over-the-counter pain medication, as necessary.

Does moisturising help?

Dr Ross Perry was asked to explain the role of hydration in addressing sunburn. He said:

“Moisturiser is key but it is only a barrier to try and trap moisture, it won’t replenish cellular water. You must remember to drink plenty of water to hydrate the skin cells from within. It’s best to avoid too much alcohol, tea or coffee or caffeinated drinks when sunburnt.”

If your skin is peeling, that’s an indication of severe sunburn. To help the skin, Dr Ross Perry recommends natural preparations to avoid any chance of reaction, as the skin will be extra sensitive.

“Natural products such as aloe vera are going to be the most effective”

Read this article in full

Dr Ross Perry

Dr Ross Perry often assists the media with his explanations and information. He has extensive experience as an NHS GP and skin cancer reconstruction doctor alongside his private work as Founder and Medical Director of the London Mole Removal Centre.

He is renowned as an expert in removal of skin lesions. He has removed thousands of moles in his role as Medical Director and founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics including the London mole Removal Centre.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering diagnosis and treatment for skin lesions including moles, cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma, xanthelasma, milia. All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field. Patients benefit from:

No waiting lists
Fully trained doctors, registered with GMC
Blemishes can usually be removed in the same appointment as the consultation, saving the need for a repeat visit and allowing patients to get very quick treatment
Choice of 4 clinics in London plus one in Bristol
Testing with report provided where necessary

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.