How to Treat Sunburn

Do you have sunburn? If so, you’re not alone. Sunburn is a common problem during the summertime or on vacation, and it can be painful and frustrating. Trying to find relief from the sun’s harsh rays can be difficult, but there are treatments that can help, we will discuss how to heal sunburn quickly using natural methods. We will also provide tips on how to prevent sunburn in the future. Let’s get started!

If you have a sunburn, the first thing you should do is get out of the sun. This may seem like an obvious step, but it’s important to avoid further sun exposure.  You can do more damage to your skin by staying in the sun.

A sunburn should only affect the outermost layers of skin, similar to a first-degree burn. If the burn is deeper, evidenced by blister or breaks in the skin, you should see immediate medical attention.

Get out of the sun

Although this may sound obvious, the first thing you should do if you suspect you have sunburn is getting out of the sun. Prolonged sun exposure can continue to damage your skin.

Take a cool shower

Once you’re out of the sun, take a cool shower or bath. This will help to soothe your skin and reduce inflammation. This may be a hurt or sting a little but this is an important first step. Sunburn can affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature. So only a cool shower, too cold of a shower may leave you with lasting chills. The shower will start to relieve the pain, reduce any swelling and begin your recovery. If you are unable to take a shower you can apply a cool compress to the sunburned area. Ice can lead to frostbite so only cool compress.

Apply Aloe Vera

After you’ve taken care of the immediate sunburn, it’s time to focus on healing the skin. One of the best ways to do this is by using aloe vera gel. Aloe vera has natural soothing properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Apply the gel to your sunburned area several times a day. Aloe also stimulates the production of collagen, which helps the healing process.

Ibuprofen for pain

You may also want to take ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, ibuprofen should be taken at the onset of sunburn and continued for 48 hours,  In some cases, ibuprofen may also help to prevent permanent skin damage.

Hydrate

If you have been out in the soon too long, there is also a chance you my be dehydrated. Make sure you drink plenty of water. A sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body. Drinking extra water when you are sunburned helps prevent dehydration.

So there you have it—a few tips on how to heal sunburn quickly using natural methods. Be sure to try these methods next time you find yourself with a sunburn. And remember, sunburn prevention is always the best cure. So be sure to use sunscreen, wear UPF clothing and stay out of the sun.