First degree burns affect the epidermis, the skin's surface, involving minimal tissue damage. However, they are still painful, red, and sensitive to touch. They affect the outer layer of skin causing pain, redness and swelling. Sunburn is a good example of a first degree burn, and the most common case. Although these burns are not too dangerous at this level, they are able to cause more extreme problems over time, for example cancer. Learn to recognize the symptoms and how to treat them if you find yourself victim to a first degree burn.

Symptoms of Sunburn and other First Degree Burns

*Redness is the first observable sign of a skin burn, but people usually do not notice this until the next day.

*When skin is stripped from its lipids, it causes another symptom of first degree burn, dry skin. It is vital to use a generous amount of cream to moisturize first degree burns.

*Skin is painful to the touch, a symptom that can last for 48-72 hours and then fades.

*In the middle stage of the healing process, peeling occurs.

Tips for Sun Burns and other First Degree Burns

First make sure that the skin is not broken and then move onto the first response which is to put the affected area into cool water. You can do this by running cold water over the skin, or to apply a cold compress periodically such as a damp wash cloth. This coolness can lessen swelling and reduce pain. It is also soothing to spray water from a spray bottle over the affected area. Also, it is important to drink plenty of fluids.

Avoid exposure to the sun at all times. This is imperative as to not damage the skin tissue further. After a burn your skin is extremely vulnerable and sun exposure could lead to more tissue damage and eventually other problems such as premature aging.

Avoid the sun as well as apply UV protection with an SPF of 35 or higher. Reapply sunscreen every 3-4 hours if you are at all exposed to the sun. It is recommended to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your facial skin, the most delicate and vulnerable to permanent damage. Avoid friction and pressure during the healing process. This will keep you from further pain as well as allow the skin to breathe. Do not scratch the burn if it becomes itchy during the peeling phase of repair. Excessive scratching during the peeling phase of the healing process could damage new healthy skin cells being produced beneath the burn. Instead you can wash the area and apply a moisturizing cream.

It is very common to experience sunburn, and there are many products that address the problem. Aloe Vera gels are a common soothing remedy. This can help reduce the pain, inflammation and swelling. Other natural skin care products that are suggested are creams that contain the secretion of snails. These snail products can be very useful to heal your skin faster as it will trigger skin regeneration.