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What to do about sunburn?

What to do about sunburn?

by Office Decacel in Skin Lab Blog

Sunburn in Summer: Causes, Prevention & Proper Skincare

Even with careful sun protection, sunburns can still happen, especially during the height of summer. But what exactly occurs in the skin when you get sunburned? And what can you do to prevent and treat it effectively? Here's everything you need to know, backed by clear facts and practical tips.

1. What Happens During a Sunburn?

A sunburn is an inflammatory reaction of the skin caused by excessive exposure to UVB radiation, comparable to a superficial first- or second-degree burn. Symptoms usually appear 1–2 hours after sun exposure and may include:

  • Clearly defined redness
  • A feeling of heat, tightness, and occasional itching
  • In severe cases, blistering may occur

Symptoms typically peak within 12–24 hours and subside over several days. As the skin heals, it often peels.

 2. Sunburn & Skin Cancer: Why It Matters

Sunburn is not just a cosmetic issue. Every burn from UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells. If this damage is not fully repaired, it increases the long-term risk of skin cancer, especially:

  • Malignant melanoma
  • Basal cell carcinoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma

📊 In Switzerland, between 2017 and 2021, an average of 1,794 new cases of malignant melanoma in men (31 per 100,000) and 1,512 in women (25.7 per 100,000) were reported annually. The mortality rate stands at about 2.6 and 1.5 per 100,000 respectively (Source).

👉 Every sunburn contributes to your lifetime risk—making consistent protection and aftercare essential. 

3. How to Effectively Protect Your Skin

To prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage:

  • Avoid direct sunlight between 11 AM and 3 PM
  • Apply sunscreen generously and frequently, especially after swimming or sweating
  • Use a high SPF (50+) even on cloudy days
  • Wear protective clothing and a hat
  • Pay extra attention to sensitive areas, like the nose or décolleté

✅ Our tip:  Lotion multi‑défense SPF 50 by DECALYS not only protects against UV rays, but also environmental stress and blue light—ideal for sensitive skin in urban environments.

4. What to Do After a Sunburn

If your skin is already red and burning, targeted care is essential.

Cool and Soothe

  • Use lukewarm water or cool (not icy) compresses to reduce heat and discomfort.
  • A grandmother's tip: Applying cool quark or plain yogurt to reddened skin provides quick relief.
  • Avoid further sun exposure immediately.

Regenerative Care That Works

LE BAUME by DECALYS features a clinically tested combination of active ingredients:

  • Aloe vera: hydrates, cools, and calms the skin
  • Zinc: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and supports wound healing
  • Alpha‑3 Complex®: promotes skin regeneration

LE BAUME is Swiss Made, dermatologically tested, and ideal for post-sunburn care, skin irritation, or post-procedure support.

5. Conclusion: Prevention & Care Protect Your Skin and Health

A sunburn isn’t just a harmless redness—it’s a stress response of the skin and can increase the risk of skin cancer over time. That’s why:

  • Consistent protection with sunscreen, clothing, and shade is key
  • Quick, regenerative care is crucial when redness occurs
  • Taking skin health seriously ensures long-term resilience
  • And last but not least: red skin does not simply turn brown. That is a myth !

With products like Lotion multi‑défense SPF 50 and LE BAUME by DECALYS by Dr. Enderlin, you have access to dermatologically developed solutions—for healthy, protected, and resilient skin now and in the future.

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