Spring is a time of awakening, warmth, and the first rays of sunshine. Many rush to bask in the sun after a long winter. But it’s during spring that sunburns are particularly common — and can be just as dangerous as those in summer. It’s essential to know how to avoid sunburn, how to treat it, and why spring sun can be more deceptive than it appears.
In this article, Baltimore Chronicle‘ll explore the causes of springtime sunburn, methods of prevention and treatment, and how to properly care for your skin during the early warm days.
Why Spring Sun Can Be Dangerous
Spring sun feels mild and pleasant, yet the risk of getting sunburned is especially high during this time of year.
Main risk factors in spring:
- Decreased skin protection after winter
- High reflectivity of surfaces (snow, water)
- Low skin pigmentation (lack of a tan)
- Insufficient SPF protection
- Increased sensitivity due to dry skin
In spring, ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels rise steadily, and the body hasn’t yet adapted to exposure. Windy weather can also mask skin heating, making burns more likely even if it doesn’t feel hot.
What Sunburn Looks Like: Symptoms and Degrees
You can recognize sunburn within a few hours after being in the sun. The signs vary depending on the severity.
Main symptoms:
- Skin redness
- Pain on touch
- Burning sensation
- Swelling
- Blisters (in more serious cases)
- Peeling skin after a few days
Degrees of Sunburn
| Degree | Description | Symptoms | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild | Surface-level burn | Redness, discomfort | Cooling, moisturizing |
| Medium | Deeper skin layer | Pain, swelling, possible blisters | Skin treatment, creams with panthenol |
| Severe | Dermal layer damage | Intense blistering, severe pain | Medical attention required |
How to Provide First Aid for Sunburn
The key is to act quickly. The sooner you respond, the lower the risk of complications.
Action plan:
- Move into the shade or indoors
- Cool the skin with cold (not ice-cold) water
- Apply a soothing gel, such as aloe vera
- Drink plenty of water to rehydrate
- Do not scratch or pop blisters
Avoid applying greasy creams immediately after a burn — they can trap heat and worsen the condition.
Prevention: How to Protect Your Skin in Spring
To avoid sunburn, follow several simple but effective rules.
What to do:
- Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30
- Apply it 20 minutes before going outside
- Reapply every 2 hours
- Wear a hat and lightweight, skin-covering clothing
- Avoid direct sun from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Gradually adapt your skin to sun exposure
Sunglasses are also recommended, as UV rays can harm not just your skin but your eyes as well.
When to See a Doctor
Most sunburns can be treated at home. However, some symptoms signal the need for professional help.
Warning signs:
- Large blisters across the body
- Fever or chills
- Severe headache
- Signs of dehydration (dry lips, weakness)
- Persistent pain for several days
Parents of young children should be especially vigilant — their skin is extremely sensitive to UV radiation.
Natural Remedies for Sunburn: What Really Works
Some natural remedies can help soothe the skin in mild burn cases.
These include:
- Aloe vera juice (soothes and moisturizes)
- Chamomile tea (reduces inflammation)
- Oatmeal baths (soften the skin)
- Yogurt or kefir (cool and reduce redness)
Always check for allergies before using any new remedy on the skin.
How to Care for Skin After a Burn
After a sunburn, your skin needs special care to recover. This is important not only for appearance but also to avoid complications.
Key tips:
- Moisturize your skin 2–3 times daily
- Avoid further sun exposure
- Stay hydrated
- Eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, E
- Don’t peel flaking skin — it may cause scarring
Skin regenerates in about 28 days, so full recovery may take up to a month.
Earlier we wrote about how to get rid of insects in your apartment in spring: proven methods.