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Sunburn pain

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Researchers in the United Kingdom have discovered exactly how and why sunburns hurt.

The scientists say they’ve been able to pinpoint a molecule that triggers pain and tenderness after too much ultraviolet exposure.

They analyzed skin biopsies of people who had sunburns to find the molecule.

Further animal studies showed antibodies targeting the molecule appeared to reduce pain.

It’s a finding that could lead to new treatments for other inflammatory pain conditions like arthritis.