Definition: Erythema solare is the medical term for sunburn, the reddening of the skin due to overexposure to the sun. As little as 15 minutes of direct exposure to the ultraviolet radiation from the sun (specifically, the type called UVB) directly damages the DNA in skin cells, which in turn triggers defense and repair mechanisms in the body. This inflammatory response includes increased blood flow to the skin, which accounts for the redness. Sunburn appears about 2 to 4 hours and peaks between 8 to 24 hours following exposure, followed by skin peeling 3 to 8 days later. Besides the redness and pain, sunburn can also cause swelling. Call your doctor if you experience a fever, fluid-filled blisters, dizziness or vision problems.
Chronic overexposure to the sun is associated with skin cancer, mostly the basal cell and squamous cell types. A history of three or more blistering sunburns before age 20 also greatly increases your risk of melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. Too much sun also causes wrinkling, premature aging, age spots (lentigines), and cataracts. To prevent sunburn and its associated health consequences, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, avoid the midday sun, and wear a hat, sunglasses and other protective clothing.
Also Known As: Redness, sunburn
