The sun is an incredible source of energy and life, providing light and warmth to our planet. But, just like with any good thing, too much of it can be dangerous.

Sunburns, skin cancer, and dehydration are all risks that come with spending too much time under the scorching sun.

What Happens to Your Body When You’re Scorched by the Sun?

When you spend too much time in the sun, your skin starts to feel hot and tight. This is your body’s way of telling you that it’s starting to struggle with heat.

If you continue to expose your skin to the sun, it can lead to sunburn, which is a form of skin damage caused by overexposure to UV radiation.

When your skin is exposed to too much UV radiation, it triggers an immune response to repair the damage. This immune response can cause inflammation, which leads to the redness and pain associated with sunburn.

Over time, sunburn can lead to skin cancer, which is why it’s so important to take steps to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

How to Protect Your Skin from the Sun?

There are a number of things you can do to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Here are some of the most effective strategies for staying safe in the sun:.

Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes
Stay in the shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Cover up with long-sleeved clothing and pants to protect your skin

What to Do if You Get Sunburned?

If you do get sunburned, there are a few things you can do to ease the discomfort and help your skin heal:.

Take a cool bath or shower to soothe your skin
Apply aloe vera or a cooling lotion to the affected area
Avoid further sun exposure until your skin has healed
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

The Dangers of Heat Stroke

While sunburn can be painful and uncomfortable, the real danger of spending too much time in the sun is heat stroke. Heat stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when your body can no longer regulate its internal temperature.

Symptoms of heat stroke include:.

High body temperature
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Confusion or disorientation
Rapid heartbeat
Loss of consciousness

Heat stroke can be fatal if left untreated, so it’s important to take steps to prevent it. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of heat stroke, seek medical attention immediately.

The Bottom Line

The sun is an incredible source of energy and life, but it’s important to respect its power. By taking steps to protect your skin and stay cool in the heat, you can enjoy all that sunny days have to offer without putting your health at risk.