There are some tricks that will soothe sunburn and some old wives tales that can do more harm than good. This list of do’s and don’ts will help if you find yourself with a nasty burn. Of course, start any time you spend in the sun with a sweat-proof, water-proof sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and you won’t even need this information – prevention is the ultimate way to soothe sunburn!
Start with the Don’ts. They can actually cause further damage to your skin and increase your pain.
Don’t use anything cold to soothe a burn. Always use a cool soak or compress.
Don’t exfoliate or use products that contain glycolic acid, retinoids, or salicylic acid until you are completely done peeling. After you’re done peeling, wait another three days to allow your skin to finish healing. Your skin is too sensitive during this time to be exposed to these ingredients.
Don’t pop any blisters. Don’t apply any lotion or gel to blisters.
Don’t use an oil based spray even if it says it’s for use on sunburned skin. The coating these sprays form locks the heat of the burn onto your skin and greatly increases your pain.
Don’t pull off peeling skin. This can prolong and worsen peeling. Let flaking skin fall off naturally.
Don’t go back into the sun until your burn has healed and your skin is no longer red or pink. If you must be in the sun, protect the burned areas of your skin with a hat, long sleeves or pants.
And now for the Do’s. These are tried and true ways to treat a sunburn that will benefit your skin and help speed up the healing process.
Do keep your legs or arms elevated when they are even moderately burned.
Do use damp, chilled teabags to soothe sunburned eyelids. Chamomile is gentle and works well.
Do use cool compresses soaked in milk to soothe the affected areas. Milk proteins create a protective coat on the skin that helps maintain the moisture necessary for the healing enzymes to both soothe the skin and take away the sting.
Do take a cool 10 – 15 minute shower to lower your increased body temperature. This will also help pull the heat from the burn and reduce your pain.
Do drink green tea or pomegranate extract or juice. Both have soothing anti-inflammatory benefits and are strong antioxidants, which can help repair the unseen damage of UV exposure.
Do eat lots of fruits (especially berries) and veggies. Their antioxidants will also help lessen UV damage.
Do moisturize a lot! Use moisturizers with aloe and antioxidants, especially on your face. Continue to moisturize even while you’re peeling.
Do sleep in very soft, loose-fitting dress with no lace or tags to help reduce pain.
Do call/see your doctor immediately if you experience blistering, fever, chills or weakness as a result of your sunburn.
Source: here
No comments:
Post a Comment