When the sun is shining, it’s easy to forget how powerful it can be. But all it takes is one day of too much exposure, and you could have a nasty sunburn. Sunburns hurt and can leave your skin dry and irritated for days. If you’ve been caught out in the sun for too long, don’t panic.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss helpful tips on what to do when you get sunburned. We’ll review natural remedies that can provide relief and measures you should take to ensure the burn doesn’t worsen or cause further damage. Read on to learn everything you need to know about treating your sunburn!
When you get sunburned, your skin is damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are invisible and come from the sun, even on cloudy days. They can also come from tanning beds and sunlamps.
Symptoms of sunburn may include:
Sunburns can range from mild to severe. A mild sunburn may cause redness and soreness for a few days. More severe sunburn may lead to swelling, blistering, and lasting pain. In extreme cases, severe sunburn can cause serious illnesses like heat stroke or infection.
It is essential to protect your skin from the sun. You can do this by wearing sunscreen, staying in the shade, and wearing protective clothing outside.
There are a few things you can do to treat a sunburn:
1. Apply Aleo
Apply aloe vera gel or cream to the burned area. This will help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. There is a reason why it is the preferred after-sun item. Whether it comes from a bottle or is harvested directly from the plant, pure aloe vera gel has calming and cooling properties. Due to its anti-inflammatory qualities, it may also help promote wound healing.
2. Consider Trying Over-The-Counter Medicines
If you choose the right products, the pharmacy aisles can also aid in the healing process:
A. Use ibuprofen or aspirin to treat pain: Advil and other over-the-counter pain relievers can help with swelling and discomfort.
B. Use a hydrocortisone cream to apply: Cortizone-10, a mild topical steroid, may hasten the healing process.
3. Drink Fluids
Drink fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated and help your skin heal. A sunburn causes fluid to move from the rest of the body to the skin. Drink plenty of water or an electrolyte-containing low-sugar beverage to rehydrate. However, avoid attempting to hydrate by downing margaritas, as alcohol can exacerbate the issue.
4. Use Cool Packs
Apply a cool compress to the burned area for 10-15 minutes to help relieve pain and swelling. Before applying ice to your skin, wrap it in a cloth. You can dab the burn with a washcloth dipped in cold milk or water. Milk contains vitamins and antioxidants that can aid in skin healing.
5. Avoid Going Back To The Sun
Avoid sun exposure until your sunburn has completely healed to prevent further damage to your skin. Cover your skin with clothing and remain in the shade if you must return outside. Apply plenty of sunscreens as well; at least a shot glass’ worth on the body and a nickel-sized amount on the face. Use SPF on the burn to prevent adding fuel to the fire by sustaining more harm!
6. Seek Medical Help
See a doctor for further treatment if the sunburn is severe or painful. Seek medical attention if you have blisters covering a significant portion of your body, have a fever or chills, or feel wacky or confused. Call your doctor immediately if your sunburn is getting worse because that could be an infection.
There are several things you can do to prevent sunburn:
I) Use sunscreen
Be sure to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and apply it generously to all exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours or more often if you are sweating or swimming.
II) Wear Protective Clothing
Cover up as much skin as possible when outside, and wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face, neck, and ears. Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
III) Limit Time In The Sun
Stay out of direct sunlight for extended periods, especially during peak hours when the UV radiation is most intense (generally 10 am – 2 pm).
IV) Seek Shade
When outdoors, seek areas with shade from trees or umbrellas to provide additional protection from the sun’s rays.
V) Avoid Tanning Beds And Sunlamps
These emit ultraviolet rays that can damage your skin and cause sunburn.
Even if you take precautions, eventually, we all get sunburn. It’s important to remember that sunburns can be dangerous and should always be taken seriously. Our tips gave you some ideas on how to soothe the uncomfortable symptoms of sunburn and help your skin heal quickly. Whether using natural aloe-vera remedies or over-the-counter products, taking steps to protect yourself from further damage is critical in treating a sunburn efficiently.