July 9, 2025

Teenagers and Sunburn: Why Skipping Sunscreen Is a Serious Mistake

As summer days stretch longer and hotter, teenagers often head outdoors to soak up the sun—on the beach, by the pool or hanging out with friends. But far too many teens skip the sunscreen in the hope of getting a tan or forget to reapply it after swimming or sweating. The result? Painful sunburns, peeling skin and even blistering. But the consequences go much deeper than temporary discomfort.

Why Teens Avoid Sunscreen

Many teenagers associate tanned skin with beauty and confidence. Some believe they “won’t burn” or think that sunburns are just a normal part of summer. Others find sunscreen greasy, time-consuming, or simply forget to put it on again after a few hours.

But the truth is: sunburn is a form of skin damage and that damage adds up.

The Dangers of Sunburn

Sunburn isn’t just red or peeling skin—it’s a sign that ultraviolet (UV) rays have damaged the DNA in skin cells. Blistering sunburns indicate deep skin injury and are linked to a much higher risk of skin cancer later in life.

Here’s what sunburn can lead to:

  • Increased risk of melanoma – Just five or more blistering sunburns between ages 15–20 increases the risk of developing melanoma by 80%, according to dermatological studies.
  • Premature aging – Frequent sun exposure without protection leads to wrinkles, sunspots and leathery skin far earlier than expected.
  • Skin infections – Open blisters can become infected if not properly cared for.
  • Heat exhaustion or heat stroke – Severe sunburn interferes with the body’s ability to cool down, increasing the risk of overheating.

Why Sunscreen Matters

Sunscreen doesn’t stop you from being outside or enjoying summer fun—it helps you enjoy it safely. Broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.

Here’s how sunscreen helps:

  • Prevents sunburn and skin damage
  • Reduces skin cancer risk
  • Keeps skin healthy and youthful
  • Allows your skin to tan more safely (yes, it’s possible to tan slowly and safely over time, even with sunscreen!)

Talk to Your Teen

Teens may not always listen—but when it comes to their health, it’s worth having the conversation. Help them understand that protecting their skin now means fewer problems later. Encourage them to choose a sunscreen they like (spray, lotion, oil-free or mineral) and remind them that even a “base tan” doesn’t prevent sunburn.

When to See the Doctor

Call Goldsboro Pediatrics if your teen has:

  • A sunburn with large or painful blisters
  • Signs of infection (oozing, swelling, fever)
  • Headache, nausea or dizziness with a sunburn (possible heat illness)
  • Sunburns that happen frequently

Summer should be fun—but it shouldn’t hurt. Remind your teen that taking just a few extra minutes to apply sunscreen can protect their skin, their health and their future.

Need help finding a sunscreen that works for your teen’s skin? Some active ingredients in sunscreens are hormone disruptors that can lead to reproductive concerns. Others can cause allergic skin reactions. Zinc oxide sunscreens are generally safest and most effective. Check out Environmental Working Group’s Guide to Sunscreens. EWG Verified products meet strict standards for transparency and health and are reviewed by toxicologists, chemists and epidemiologists for safety and effectiveness.

Call Goldsboro Pediatrics today or ask about sun exposure and sunscreens at your next well visit.

Sources:
Sunscreen guide
Nationwide Children’s Hospital
HealthyChildren.org
Ecancer




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