Why Skin Peels After a Sunburn

Causes

Peeling skin is the body's way of showing that a sunburn is healing. Sunburn literally fries skin cells, stripping them of moisture and leaving behind red patches and even blisters. The dead skin stays in place for a few days while new skin cells grow underneath. Once the new cells mature, the dead skin cells - now completely dehydrated - slough away to reveal patches of tender, red skin.

Treatment

Don't try to rub or peel off large sections of dead skin. It's better to let the dead cells fall off naturally rather than risk infection by making your skin even more red and raw. You can apply an antibiotic cream to the new patches of skin. You should see a doctor if the sunburned area is extremely painful or blistered or if you suffer from headaches, fever, confusion, nausea, vomiting or dizziness after a sunburn.

Tips

Even though you cannot stop the peeling, there are a few steps you can take to reduce its unsightly effects. Wash the area with lukewarm water and a mild soap, then pat (don't rub) dry with a soft towel. Afterward, use a good, nongreasy moisturizer on the peeling areas. Expose peeling skin and the new cells to air, but remember to use sunscreen and cover up when you are in the sun.

Consequences

Sunburn can permanently damage skin, cause premature aging and even increase your chances of skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation says that one severe sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles a person's chances of getting skin cancer. Five severe burns at any age can also double your skin cancer risk.

Prevention

To avoid sunburn and its consequence - peeling skin - limit your exposure to sunlight. Use a broad-spectrum sunblock of at least SPF 15 on exposed skin when you are outside. Because the healing process can take weeks, it's best to protect delicate new skin cells from the sun.

References

• Sunburn and peeling
• Sunburn facts

Resources

• Skin Cancer Foundation