July 28th 2024.
Ouch... The blazing heat of the British summer, although short-lived, is always a reason to rejoice. It's that time of the year when people pull out their BBQs, spread out their picnic blankets, and bask in the warm glow of the sun, soaking up all the much-needed vitamin D. This weekend, the entire UK has been blessed with clear blue skies and bright sunshine, and the good news is that the warm weather is expected to continue into the next week as well. However, amidst all the fun and excitement, there is one downside to this summer bliss - sunburn.
No matter how much sunscreen we slather on our skin, sometimes we still end up with painful, blistering, and red skin. If you're currently suffering from sunburn, there are things that can provide relief and help you heal faster. So, instead of dwelling on that missed spot of skin and feeling miserable, here are eight tips to soothe your sunburn and get back to enjoying the summer.
First and foremost, it's important to cool down your body both internally and externally. Make sure to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Additionally, you can also apply a cold compress, like a wet towel, on the affected areas for 10 to 15 minutes a few times a day to reduce the heat and discomfort.
Moisturizing your sunburnt skin is crucial and should be your top priority. According to Matthew Gass from the British Association of Dermatologists, using a soothing moisturizer can help alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by sunburn. Look for products that contain aloe vera, and for some extra relief, you can even refrigerate your moisturizer before applying it.
Be mindful of the ingredients in your skincare products. The American Academy of Dermatology warns against using moisturizers that contain petroleum, benzocaine, or lidocaine, as they can further irritate your sunburn. So, be sure to check the labels before purchasing any products. And yes, that means avoiding Vaseline as well, as it contains petroleum.
When it comes to cleansing your sunburnt skin, opt for a gentle soap. Harsh soaps can dry out and aggravate your already inflamed skin, which can lead to further discomfort and even infection. Also, try to avoid rubbing your skin too hard after washing, as it can cause the skin to break and make it more prone to infections.
If the pain from your sunburn is too much to bear, you can take some anti-inflammatory medication to help ease the discomfort. However, keep in mind that the only real cure for sunburn is time and patience. Depending on the severity of the burn, it can take up to a week or more for your skin to fully heal. So, don't give up hope and be patient.
It's essential to watch out for any signs of severe sunburn or other heat-related conditions. If you experience any of the following symptoms and they are severe, it's best to seek medical help: blisters, swelling of the skin, chills, a high temperature of 38C or above (or 37.5C or above in children under five), dizziness, headaches, and feeling sick.
If you do get blisters from your sunburn, resist the urge to pop them. Popping blisters can lead to infections and permanent scarring. So, leave them be and let them heal naturally.
Lastly, the best way to deal with sunburn is to not get it in the first place. Prevention is always better than cure, and this is especially true when it comes to sunburn. Caroline Newton from the Skin Cancer Research Fund advises, "The most important message would be to not get sunburnt in the first place. If your skin is already red, itchy, and painful, it means it's been damaged. Prevention is key, as getting sunburnt can increase your chances of developing skin cancer later in life."
So, there you have it - eight ways to cope with sunburn and heal your skin. Remember to stay safe out there and enjoy the summer responsibly. And if you have a story to share, we would love to hear from you. Please send us an email with your experience.
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