W hen we look at how the sun plays its role when it comes to our skin, there can be some major concerns. When we talk of sunscreens, it isn’t just a fashion statement that you are making. It is extremely critical for your health. Sometimes it’s just easy to get a little careless with the SPF and miss a spot, or we don’t have someone with us to hit that unreachable spot on our backs, or we smooth sunscreen on our arms but forget to do our shoulders when we whip off our t-shirt to go swimming. And then, yow: evening comes and our skin is getting redder and redder, and oh-so-sore. And a few days later, we look in the mirror and see super-unattractive peeling skin, or icky-looking blisters. Yes, it can get serious just like that! You need to make sure your skin is being kept in good and healthy condition.What you do really matters and it is essential to having radiant skin. So how do we take care of those really awful skin burns which just wouldn’t go away! Social Diary spoke to the experts as we bring you the top ways to combating horrific sunburns on the body:
Cool Showers!
Keep the temp low and then lather on moisturizer as soon as you get out. The cool water may help ease the pain and reduce the inflammation caused by the sunburn, but you definitely need the lotion as well. It will help trap moisture and make your skin feel and look less dry. But make sure you are avoiding harsh soap, which can further irritate the skin.
The Wonder of Aloe Vera
As it turns aloe vera is going to help in major ways too! There’s a reason why it’s the go-to after-sun product. You should make sure you are applying pure aloe vera gel — whether out of a bottle or straight from the plant — it contains cooling and soothing properties. Also it can potentially promote wound healing. And in test tube studies, the aloe plant has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. So here’s your major win-win in all the ways.
Using Ice Packs
This is an age old remedy that brings out results! Wrap ice in a cloth before applying it directly to your skin, or soak a washcloth in cold water or milk and place that on the burn. The vitamins and antioxidants in milk can help your skin heal. Many people are suggested to adapt its use as it allows your skin to cool down and makes up for the heat that is building up.
Hydrate!
As simple as it may sound, hydration is essential. You have to keep your body completely hydrated. A sunburn draws fluid to the skin and away from the rest of the body. Rehydrate by downing plenty of H20, or a low-sugar drink that has electrolytes. But here you need to make sure that you are indeed drinking water. As only that is the kind of beverage that will keep you in good shape for longer duration.
Blister Popping
Severe and widespread blisters require a doctor’s attention, but if you get a few, you should leave them open. Opening them up makes them vulnerable to infection. If blisters do pop naturally, you should clean the open wound with mild soap and water and cover it with antibiotic ointment and a bandage. This is essential so that your skin is left flawless.
Protection from Damage
It is important that you look into and see how you can keep your skin safe and sound. If you need to go outside again, wear clothing that covers your skin and stay in the shade. Also, don’t forget to apply lots of sunscreen as well — at least a shot glass-full for the body, a nickel-size dollop for the face. It is really important to use SPF on the burn so as to not stoke the fire with additional damage. These things matter and keep your skin feeling super refreshed.
Skip Heat-Trapping Product
There are things you may be tempted to use on your skin that can make things worse because they trap the heat in. Not good. For this reason, the SCF says to avoid using oil-based lotions or petroleum products. They work really well and allow your skin to feel really soft and supple. These things matter and ensure you are getting the care that you need.
Topical Anesthetics
Here’s a little tactic we want you to know. Products like benzocaine — in fact, any products that end in “-caine” should be best avoided right now, because they can further irritate the skin. This is why your best bet is to make use of products which come natural and consist of good amounts of petroleum.
Switch Up
Sometimes it works best if you just try something different and new at the same time. It’s best to skip some of your usual skincare steps in the start. Exfoliators and scrubs will just add to the pain and could further damage your skin; same with toners. If you’re using acne medication, you probably want to talk to your doc about whether it’s a good idea to take a little break. Your skin will thank you for easing up on it.
Oatmeal Baths
As if we needed more reasons to love oatmeal. You should be easing the discomfort of a sunburn by adding colloidal oatmeal to your bath water; it’s known to ease inflammation. Just take a break, lie back and say “aaahh.” Also a bath with baking soda can help with the ouch. It also has antibacterial properties, and in research was shown to reduce itchiness. Try a lukewarm bath with a half cup or so of baking soda.
