Sunburn vs sun poisoning: What's the difference?

Stepping out isn't unavoidable, even in this heat. As temperatures continue to rise, it is important to ensure that you don't expose yourself to the sun sans sunscreen and sun-protective clothes.

- Natalia Ningthoujam

Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays both from the sun and artificial sources such as tanning beds can result in either sunburn or sun poisoning.

KINDS OF SUN DAMAGE

• Sunburn: Damage caused by overexposure to UV rays from natural or artificial sources. When the unprotected skin absorbs UV rays in excess, it can become red, inflamed and painful. "Sunburn is an inflammatory reaction to direct DNA damage in skin cells," explains dermatologist Dr Sunita Naik.

• Sun poisoning: While not a medically-defined skin condition, this term is used to describe a severe form of sunburn. "It is often used to describe sunburn that is accompanied by symptoms like nausea, headache, dehydration, fever, chills, dizziness or even a rash," says Dr Naik. It may resemble a heat-related illness or allergic reaction.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?