Beauty Glossary

Sunburn

Skin Concern

Skin damage caused by too much UV radiation – it shows as redness, pain and peeling skin.

Sunburn
Key facts
Type
Thermal damage / sun damage
Who it's for
Anyone can get sunburn – especially fair skin, children, at the beach and in the mountains
What helps
Aloe vera, panthenol, ceramides, cool compresses, SPF 50+ (prevention)
What to avoid
Retinol and acids on burned skin, more sunbathing, alcohol in cosmetics

What is sunburn?

Sunburn is an inflammatory reaction of the skin to too high a dose of UV radiation. UVB rays damage the DNA of skin cells and cause redness, pain and peeling.

What are the symptoms of sunburn?

Redness, pain, a feeling of heat, swelling. Severe sunburn can bring blisters, fever and general weakness – then your skin needs to be seen by a doctor. After a few days the skin peels.

How do you soothe sunburn?

Cool compresses and baths. Calming aloe vera gel or panthenol. A cream with ceramides rebuilds the skin barrier. Drink plenty of water. Stay out of the sun.

What should you not do with sunburn?

No retinol, no acids and no alcohol on burned skin. Don't peel the skin off mechanically. Don't go back in the sun without SPF 50+.