How Does The Sunburn Occur

How Does The Sunburn Occur ?

Sunburn occurs when the skin is over exposed to the ultra violet, or the UV, rays of the sun. This is true for both the both UVA and UVB rays. The risk of suffering the consequences of sun’s radiation has increased significantly over the years.

Our skin has a pigment called melanin, which is responsible for the complexion and color of our skin. Melanin also acts a natural protection from the ultra violet rays of the sun. It is the natural sunscreen within human skin, irrespective of color, race and age. It is only when the skin is exposed to UV rays of the sun higher than the level of melanin content in the skin, the skin gets sunburn.

When there is a prolonged exposure to the sun, the melanin cannot protect the skin and prevent sunburns. It is very important to protect our skin from prolonged and over exposure to the sun at all times. Sunburn can also occur when the skin is exposed to other artificial sources of UV rays like sun lamps or tanning beds.

Sunburns can occur on any part of the body that is exposed to the sun, and is not limited to the usual exposed area like face and hands. Sometimes usage of certain medication and high altitudes can make human skin susceptible to the radiation. The ultraviolet rays of the sun are reflected off snow, sand, water, cement and even grass which increases the risk of getting sunburns almost everywhere we go.

The skin can start to get sunburns within 30 minutes of exposure to direct sunlight. Young children and the elderly who have sensitive skins are more likely to suffer from sunburn than mature adults. People with light skins have low content of melanin, which makes them more susceptible to sunburns than people who have dark skin.

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How Does The Sunburn Occur