Most of us have been burnt by the sun at some stage and while I write a lot about protection, sometimes we are caught having too much fun or even falling asleep under the suns harmful rays. Here are some tips for treating your skin if you find you’ve been sunburnt. *Severe burns should always be checked by a doctor, especially should you become feverish.
- When showering, try use tepid/cool water as extreme temps can worsen a burn for example: the first thing we want is to cool it down but if The water is freezing it can further damage the skins barrier. You don’t want to further shock the skin in a hot shower either
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated to avoid further drying out of the skin and fever.
- Use after sun, there are many on the market but try go for something fragrance free and basic. Lavender oil (mixed) aloe vera gel, almond oil are all fantastic to help take down redness and soothe the skin. Even when redness and swelling goes down, continue to treat your skin
- Greek or natural yoghurt is brilliant (if you can stand the smell as your hot skin will heat it, giving off a sour odour) the lactic acid and anti inflammatory properties, help reduce redness and moisturise the skin.
- If your sunburn is bad, you may get blisters but it’s important not to pop as the reason they form is to protect the skin and let it heal itself.
- Wear breathable cotton and avoid clothing that will run against your tender skin.
- Stay out of the sun until your skin heals
Sun damage comes in many forms and can be irreversible, so like with most things, prevention is better than cure. Wearing spf everyday can significantly reduce the effects of the sun and building it in to your routine will become a habit.
There are also so many formulations now that are easy to wear so that everyone can benefit from them.
Apart from the obvious sunscreen, try to avoid exposure by:
- Using shade in the form of an umbrella or tent at the beach
- Wearing light but protective clothing
- Wear a hat
- Exercise/swim early in the morning or in the evening, avoiding the 11-4 peak
