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Though he didn't normally spend much time outside, Mike applied for and got a life-guard position at his local municipal pool. After the first day, Mike found he had a terrible sunburn. What causes sunburn? Why does sunburned skin peel in sheets? What is a possible danger associated with sunburn? How is sunburn treated?

User Marsden
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Final answer:

Sunburn is caused by overexposure to UV light, which damages the outer layer of the skin. Sunburned skin peels in sheets due to the immune response triggered by the inflammation. A possible danger of sunburn is an increased risk of skin cancer. Sunburn can be treated with cool showers, moisturizers, pain relievers, and avoiding further sun exposure.

Step-by-step explanation:

Sunburn is caused by overexposure to UV light from the sun or tanning beds. The UV-B and UV-C rays damage the outer layer of the skin, resulting in sunburn. The body produces pigment molecules called melanin in the epidermis to protect the skin from UV light, but excessive exposure can lead to sunburn.

Sunburned skin peels in sheets because the damage caused by UV rays triggers the immune response in the body, causing inflammation. The inflammation stimulates the production of new skin cells, which pushes the damaged skin upward, resulting in peeling.

A possible danger associated with sunburn is an increased risk of developing skin cancer. People who experience one or more serious sunburns are significantly more likely to develop skin cancer later in life. It is important to protect the skin from sunburn to minimize the risk of skin cancer.

Sunburn can be treated by taking cool showers or baths, applying moisturizers or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce pain and inflammation. It is also crucial to stay hydrated and avoid further sun exposure until the skin heals.

User Debbieann
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