Overexposure to the sun causes sunburn. The ultraviolet rays of the
sun can produce a painful burn that can be as severe as first or
second degree. Reflection of water, sand or snow can also intensify
the sun's burning rays. The best protection against sunburn is
prevention. Avoid sun exposure during the peak hours of the sun's
rays and apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at
least 15. Protect the eyes with sunglasses that have UV protection
and use a lip balm with sunscreen. Years of unprotected sun
exposure can cause premature aging and cancer of the skin.
Review Date: 06/09/2008
Reviewed By: John E. Duldner, Jr., MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Emergency
Medicine Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine
Akron General Medical Center and Northeastern Ohio Universities
College of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M.,
Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
