what are the causes for being in the sun too long?

my family went to the beach on june 10 Thursday and ma brother had something on his skin the next day. He said maybe he was allergic to the sunscreen or maybe too much sun. i checked it up and it said it was probably a sun rash or something. today is friday june 18..7 days later and he still has it; on his shoulders and hands. could someone explain to me what exactly this is?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This rash could have been due to sunburn. Sunburn results when the amount of exposure to the sun or other ultraviolet light source exceeds the ability of the body's protective pigment, melanin, to protect the skin.

Apply cool compresses on the area and take bath with cool(not very cold) water. Do not scrub your skin or shave your skin and use a soft towel and gently pat your skin dry.Also use a sunburn Over-The-Counter remedy containing aloe vera and a light moisturizer or a dusting powder to relieve chafing.You can apply silver sulfadiazine (1% cream) on the skin except face and see if it helps.If the symptoms still persist then you should consult a dermatologist and discuss the option of dermabrasion or laser resurfacing.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.