Sunburn

What Is Sunburn?

Sunburn is a common skin problem that happens when the skin gets too much sunlight. The sun sends out special rays called ultraviolet, or UV, rays. When your skin gets too much of these rays, it can turn red, feel hot, and hurt.

How to Stay Safe

It’s very important to protect your skin from the sun, especially if you are a child. Here are some easy ways to stay safe:

• Use sunscreen. Put it on your skin before you go out in the sun.
• Wear clothes that cover your skin, like hats and long sleeves.
• Stay in the shade when the sun is strongest, usually between 10 am and 4 pm.

Why Sunburn Happens

The sun’s rays can hurt your skin if you spend too much time outside. Lighter skin can burn more easily, but anyone can get a sunburn. Even on cloudy days, the sun can still hurt your skin. Places near water, sand, or snow can make the sun’s rays stronger because these surfaces reflect the sunlight.

How to Feel Better

If you get a sunburn, try these simple things to feel better:

• Take cool baths or showers.
• Use lotions with aloe vera to soothe your skin.
• Drink lots of water.
• Wear loose clothes to protect your skin when you go outside.

Remember, the best way to avoid sunburn is to stay safe from too much sun!