Sunburn occurs when skin is damaged by excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation, leading to an inflammatory reaction. While most sunburns typically present with redness, a purple discoloration can sometimes develop. This unusual appearance indicates specific underlying physiological changes in the skin.
The Biological Basis of Purple Sunburn
Severe UV exposure damages DNA within skin cells, triggering an inflammatory response. This response involves the dilation of small blood vessels, a process called vasodilation, which increases blood flow to the affected area and causes the characteristic redness and warmth associated with sunburn.
In more severe cases, intense inflammation and damage can affect the integrity of these small blood vessels. The increased pressure and compromised vessel walls may lead to blood leaking into the surrounding skin tissues, a process known as extravasation. This pooling of blood, similar to a bruise, contributes to the purple or bluish hue observed. This color signifies the burn has reached deeper layers of the skin, affecting the dermis where blood vessels are abundant. The body’s immune system sends cells to the damaged area to clean up cellular debris, further contributing to the localized response. This phenomenon can sometimes be referred to as sunburn purpura.
Assessing the Seriousness
A purple discoloration in a sunburn often signifies a more severe burn than a typical red sunburn. This color change indicates the burn has progressed beyond a superficial first-degree burn and is likely a second-degree burn, impacting the deeper layers of the skin. Second-degree sunburns involve damage to the dermis, the layer beneath the epidermis, and are generally more painful.
Accompanying symptoms often provide additional insight into the burn’s severity. Blistering, which involves fluid-filled sacs on the skin, is a common sign of a second-degree burn. Significant swelling and intense pain in the affected area also suggest a deeper and more serious injury.
When Professional Medical Advice is Needed
Seek immediate medical care if the burn covers a large area of the body, particularly sensitive areas like the face, hands, feet, or genitals. Widespread blistering, especially if blisters are large or appear over a significant portion of the body, warrants evaluation by a healthcare provider.
Signs of infection, such as increasing redness around the burn, streaks radiating from the affected area, pus, or worsening pain, necessitate medical consultation. Systemic symptoms including a fever over 103°F (39.4°C), chills, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or confusion are also indicators for urgent medical attention, as these can signify sun poisoning or severe dehydration. If symptoms worsen despite home care, or if there is extreme pain, a doctor should be consulted.
Immediate Care and Management
For a purple sunburn that does not immediately require professional medical attention, several immediate steps can help manage discomfort and support healing. Cooling the affected skin can provide relief; this can be achieved by taking cool baths or showers, or by applying clean towels dampened with cool tap water for about 10 minutes several times a day.
After cooling, gently apply a soothing moisturizer, gel, or lotion, such as those containing aloe vera or soy, to the damp skin. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Staying well-hydrated by drinking extra water for a day or two is also beneficial, as sunburn can draw fluid away from other parts of the body.
If blisters form, it is important not to pop them, as intact blisters help protect the underlying skin and prevent infection. Protecting the burned area from further sun exposure is also crucial during the healing process.