NHS Choices Condition
Content supplied by NHS Choices
Sunburn is caused by overexposure to sunlight, which contains ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB rays). Sunburn can also result from exposure to other sources of UV light, such as sunlamps or sunbeds.
UVB rays are absorbed by the top layer (epidermis) of the skin. The epidermis then releases chemicals, which cause the swelling, pain and redness that is associated with sunburn.
UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin damaging the middle layer (dermis), containing tissues that give skin elasticity.
Both UVA and UVB rays increase your risk of skin cancer, so getting sunburnt is a warning sign that you are putting yourself at risk.
Risk factors
You are more at risk of sunburn if you are:
- in a country that is close to the equator,
- at a high altitude (for example, skiing),
- outdoors in a sunny climate between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest, especially if there are clear skies, and
- near snow, ice or water, where the sunâs rays can reflect onto your skin.
Important Notice
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