15/03/2025
☀ SUNBURN AND MELANOMA ‼
Sunburn is an inflammatory reaction to over-exposure to UV radiation. It happens when the amount of Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exceeds what our skin can naturally block by our level of melanin - the pigment that determines the colour of our skin and darkens unprotected sun-exposed skin as a form of protection. The paler your skin, the less melanin you have which is why some people are more prone to burning than others.
Sunburn and its severity isn’t always noticeable while it’s happening, which is why many people get caught out. This is because the skin turns red within 2-6 hours of damage occurring and continues to develop for the next 24 to 72 hours. During this time, the noticeable signs and symptoms develop as the superficial layers of the skin release chemicals that cause our blood vessels to expand and leak fluid causing swelling, pain and redness. Without sun protection, UV radiation penetrates deep into the layers of the skin causing cumulative damage to the skin cells.
Skin cancer can develop when unrepaired damage to the skin cells cause them to grow out-of-control and form malignant tumours.
Once the redness fades, the damage remains which can result in serious consequences over time...
Just 5 or more sunburns, doubles your risk of melanoma, so if you have a history of sunburn be sure to check your skin monthly for the early warning signs!
ALWAYS USE SUN PROTECTION MEASURES, PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE!
