How to care for sunburned skin

Melanin is the most important pigment for the skin. In addition to determining the color of hair, eyes and skin, melanin also helps fight bacteria and balance body temperature, protecting the skin from the effects of sunlight, limiting the risk of harmful radiation. This pigment also helps regulate the aging process, reducing skin abrasion.

Melanin works by darkening unprotected sun-exposed skin. For people with little melanin, prolonged unprotected sun exposure can cause skin cells to become red, swollen, and painful, leading to sunburn.

Within a few days, the body can begin to heal itself by sloughing off the top layer of damaged skin to remove damaged cells. A severe sunburn can take several days to heal.

Sunburn accelerates skin aging and is the leading cause of most cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

When sunburned, there are some self-care measures that can be taken.

Cooling, cooling down

Limit sun exposure until sunburn symptoms have completely subsided. Apply cool compresses or cold compresses to the affected area.

Skin moisturizer

While the skin is still damp after cooling, apply a gentle moisturizer to the burned area. Aloe vera gel can also soothe minor burns and is considered safe for sunburn.

Reduce inflammation

Your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce the pain and inflammation if there are signs of inflammation or heat. Continue to apply cool compresses to reduce discomfort, and wear loose, soft, breathable clothing to avoid further skin irritation. Avoid the sun completely until the sunburn has healed.

Replenish water and electrolytes

When you get sunburned, your skin becomes dehydrated. It is important to drink fluids, including water, juice, and sports drinks that replenish electrolytes, immediately after your skin has been damaged and even after it has begun to heal.

To prevent sunburn, doctors recommend that people avoid sun exposure between 10am and 4pm. UV rays are strongest during these hours, so try to schedule outdoor activities for other times. If this is not possible, limit your time in the sun, seeking shade when possible.

Also, use a sunscreen, water-resistant lip balm with an SPF of at least 30, and a broad spectrum, even on cloudy days. Broad spectrum products help protect against ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.

Apply sunscreen liberally to clean, dry skin about 30 minutes before going outside. Cover all exposed skin surfaces with the sunscreen, except your eyelids. If you are using a spray sunscreen, spray it into your hands and then rub it into your skin. This will help avoid breathing in the product.

When you are outside, other items such as an umbrella or a wide-brimmed hat can protect you in addition to sunscreen. Dark clothing provides more protection. Wear sunglasses when outdoors, preferably the type that fits tightly around your face.

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