A day at the beach, a hike in the mountains, or simply lounging in your backyard can all lead to one common discomfort: sunburn. When our skin is exposed to the sun’s powerful ultraviolet (UV) rays for extended periods without proper protection, it can result in painful sunburn. To help you alleviate the discomfort and promote healing, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on what to do after getting a sunburn.
1.Cool Down
Take a cool (not cold) shower or bath to help soothe your skin. Avoid using hot water, as it can exacerbate the burn. Alternatively, you can apply cool, damp compresses to the affected areas for relief.
2. Hydrate
Sunburn can dehydrate your body and skin. Drink plenty of water to help rehydrate from the inside out. Hydrated skin heals more effectively.
3. Moisturize
Apply a gentle, hydrating moisturizer or aloe vera gel to your sunburned skin. Avoid products containing alcohol or fragrances, as they can further irritate your skin.
4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with sunburn. Follow the dosing instructions on the label.
5. Avoid Tight Clothing
Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing to minimize friction and discomfort on your sunburned skin. Cotton fabrics are a good choice.
6. Skip Harsh Skincare Products
Refrain from using harsh skincare products, including scrubs, exfoliants, and acne treatments, until your skin has fully recovered. These products can further irritate the damaged skin.
7. Protect Your Skin
When you do go outside, protect your sunburned skin from further UV exposure by wearing loose, long-sleeved clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
8. Avoid Picking or Peeling
Resist the urge to peel or pick at your sunburned skin, as this can lead to scarring and infection. Let your skin naturally shed.
While sunburn is uncomfortable and inconvenient, following these post-sunburn care steps can help ease the pain, promote healing, and prevent further damage. Remember that prevention is the best approach, so always use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure, especially during peak sunlight hours, to keep your skin healthy and sunburn-free.