What does a sunburn do to the epidermis?

A sunburn damages the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, by exposing it to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which leads to inflammation and the death of skin cells. This damage triggers an inflammatory response, resulting in redness, swelling, and pain. Over time, the affected skin may peel as the body sheds the damaged cells to promote healing. Repeated sunburns can increase the risk of long-term skin issues, including premature aging and skin cancer.