Sunburning, which refers to the painful redness and skin damage caused by excessive exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, has several synonyms. The most common of these include sun scorching, sun tanning, sun poisoning, and sun rash. Other similar phrases include solar dermatitis, toxic erythema, and photodermatitis. Prevention is always the best cure for sunburning; applying sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), wearing protective clothing, and avoiding midday sun exposure are all important ways to avoid sunburning. If you do get sunburned, cool compresses, moisturizing creams, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help soothe the skin and reduce discomfort.