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Do you get sunburned easily? Time to know your skin type.

By:Julian Chee


Posted 19 October 2006



Like a suntan, a sunburn is a sign of short-term sun damage. Sunburn, also called erythema, is the skin's natural defense against overexposure to UV rays. When UV rays reach your skin they begin damaging skin cells in the epidermis. In response, your immune system increases blood flow in the affected areas, making the skin feel warm and look red. White blood cells, which help protect you from infection and disease, attack and remove the damaged skin cells. The process of removing the damaged cells can cause the skin to itch and peel. Meanwhile, the damaged skin cells are releasing chemicals that send messages to your brain. Your brain translates these messages into a painful burning sensation to let you know you have been sunburned. Because it can take up to 8 hours for the full effects of sunburn to kick in, you won't realize that you have been burned right away.

Know your skin type

Everyone, no matter their skin tone, is at risk for skin damage. There are six skin categories recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Each is classified by sensitivity to the sun and typical skin tone. Check out the table to see which skin type you are.

Skin Type I

Characteristics: Always burns easily, never tans, extremely sun sensitive skin
Example: Red-headed, freckles, Irish/Scots/Welsh

Skin Type II

Characteristics: Always burns easily, tans minimally, very sun sensitive skin
Example: Fair-skinned, fair-haired, blue or green-eyed, Caucasians

Skin Type III

Characteristics: Sometimes burns, tans gradually to light brown, sun sensitive skin
Example: Average skin

Skin Type IV

Characteristics: Burns minimally, always tans to moderate brown, minimally sun sensitive
Example: Mediterranean-type Caucasians

Skin Type V

Characteristics: Rarely burns, tans well, sun insensitive skin
Example: Middle Eastern, some Hispanics, some African-Americans

Skin Type VI

Characteristics: Never burns, deeply pigmented, sun insensitive skin
Example: African-Americans

How to prevent sunburn?

Now that you know which skin type you belong to, the best way to prevent sun damage is to practice sun safety everyday. That includes wearing sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and sunglasses every time you go outside. Remember, even if you can't see it now, the damage done today will catch up with you later.

Please be reminded that the above information is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to replace any health care services you need. The information provided is strictly not meant to diagnose medical conditions, offer medical advice, or endorse specific products or services. Do not rely upon the information provided alone for medical diagnosis or treatment. Kindly consult your doctor about any personal health concerns.

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Julian Chee is the founder of Skincare Daily. This internationally accredited skin care website provides information on acne treatments, anti-aging skin care, hair removal methods, hair loss, cosmetic surgery and skin care beauty. For more acne information, please visit http://www.skincaredaily.com

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