Sunburn

I realise my pasty white skin is a little less tolerant of the sun than most of the community, but as you’ll find if you ask many people over the age of 50, damage caused by too much sun can cause problems no matter how tanned.

Sunburn is a radiation burn to the skin. The signs of sunburn can start to appear in as little as 11 minutes and skin can turn red within 2 to 6 hours of being burnt. It will continue to develop for the next 24 to 72 hours and, depending on the severity, can take days or weeks to heal. On a summer's day in Australia, the signs of sunburn can start to appear in as little as 11 minutes. All types of sunburn, whether serious or mild, can cause permanent and irreversible skin damage. This could lay the groundwork for skin cancers to develop. Further sunburn only increases your risk of skin cancer. Over 2,000 Australians die from skin cancer each year.

Skin cancer (melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers) accounts for the largest number of cancers diagnosed in Australia each year.

Skin cells in the top layer of skin (epidermis) produce a pigment called melanin, which gives skin its natural colour. When skin is exposed to UV radiation, more melanin is produced, causing the skin to tan. A suntan is a sign that the skin has been damaged from UV radiation. It is not a sign of good health.

Sunburn will become worse with more exposure to UV rays. Mild sunburn can be treated at home, but severe and blistered sunburn requires prompt medical attention.

The long-term effects of repeated bouts of sunburn include premature wrinkling and an increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. DNA in cells may be damaged, and, if not repaired by the body repeatedly over time, abnormal cells may develop, leading to cancer. This is why prevention is very important.

For the full copy of the fact sheet, visit https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health, and type sunburn in the search function.

Our next skill drill will be held on 14 November 1830 start at the St John Shed on Grassy Road. If you are interested in becoming a St John volunteer or, for more information, please email norfolk.island@stjohnnsw.com.au or james.garden@stjohnnsw.com.au