Can A Single Episode Of Sunburn On Face Cause Skin Cancer?

Posted on Tue, 15 Mar 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 15 Mar 2016 Answered on

Sat, 21 May 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I was in Florida and the first day sat around the pool and got sunburn on my face and chest. I do take Zoloft, Pamelor, melatonin, probiotics, and other supplements. My skin appears to be staying red and not turning into a XXXXXXX I had XXXXXXX Cell Carcinoma several years ago and get my skin examined every 6 months. I failed to realize that even on a cloudy day the sun can penetrate and cause burning. Now I am worried about skin cancer from this latest round of sunburn. I normally do not sunbath. Please advise.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Just a single episode of sunburn is not to be concerned about

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us

I am dr.kakkar(dermatologist). I have gone through your query and i have noted your concern.

Just a single episode of sunburn is not predictive of BCC. However, in addition to being fair skinned, BCC is a well known sequelae of repeated and intense sun exposure e.g for recreation purposes and getting repeatedly sunburnt.
Nevertheless you must use a broad spectrum sunscreen throughout the day, even on a cloudy day

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar