Understanding Sunburn Prevention and Management Strategies

Sunburns are associated with long-lasting damage to the skin from insufficient protection. Repeated sunburn occurrences are associated with skin cancer, one of the most common cancers worldwide. Fortunately, skin cancer is preventable with appropriate protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. As the most accessible healthcare professionals, pharmacists have the opportunity to educate individual patients and communities about the dangers of sunburn and the modalities available to appropriately protect the skin. Key strategies involve identifying the patient’s Fitzpatrick skin phototype, personalizing the selection of sunscreen based on sun protection factor number, and appropriately managing sunburns.