It’s everyone’s favorite time of year - tan-building season has arrived. But without proper protection, sun-soaked beach dreams can quickly turn into skin nightmares. Sunburn is a bummer, but when does it cross the line from a tomato red blush to sun poisoning? Yes, the sun can poison you. Terrifying, isn’t it?

Despite being ridiculously common, with a third of American adults playing host to a sunburn each year, this fiery feast of skin damage is no laughing matter. Racking up more than five sunburns in your life could double your chances of meeting melanoma, skin cancer's deadliest brand. Something about the phrase "fatal sunburn" doesn't have that carefree summer charm. But, where does sun poisoning come into this UV drama?

According to Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce of Westlake Dermatology, sunburn and sun poisoning are both souvenirs of an overindulgence in sun’s ultraviolet rays. But while common sunburn presents as a feverish red glaze, sun poisoning is the nuclear version.

On the outside, both conditions aren't too different. Your skin turns into a tender, red-hot mess, drier than a desert palm and peeling like a reptile's lovechild. Blisters may decide to join the skin party after a few days. So, how can you tell the difference?

Dr. Anisha Patel from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center explains that it's the symptoms beyond the skin that reveal if you're dealing with sun poisoning. Think of sun poisoning as sunburn’s evil twin, complete with headache, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, ridiculous swelling, fever, dehydration, and skin infections.

Want to avoid the drama? For sunburn, staying out of the sun (duh), hydrating and resting, and popping a painkiller can help fix you up. Nurse your skin back to health with cool compresses and barrier repair creams, like always-reliable aloe vera. If things turn for the worse, such as a worsening fever, confusion, or dehydration signs, it's time to dial up Doc. They can prescribe treatments and if needed, banish dehydration with some IV care.

As for prevention, the sun should be seen, not felt. Avoid the sun or be smart about sun exposure. Apply sunscreen like it's your religion and don the largest hat you own. Don't forget to hydrate and care for yourself. After all, no one wants to swap their summer toast for a roast. Remember, knowing how to spot sun poisoning could be a literal lifesaver under the summer sun. So, stay savvy, sun-lovers.