So you neglected to apply sunscreen and wound up spending time in the sun, or perhaps you intended to tan well but somehow overdid it. Although sunburn usually stinks, the aftereffects are much worse. The good news is that from now on, you’ll probably always wear sunscreen. Let’s clarify things in the meantime. Here are some common misconceptions about sunburn treatment and the truth.
Don’t try to treat a serious sunburn on your own. There are different levels. Mild redness and discomfort are both minor in nature. You should seek medical assistance if it covers a sizable portion of your body, contains blisters, and is accompanied by discomfort, fever, nausea, and chills. If not, the skin will begin to peel, flake, and heal in about seven days.
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Proper Way To Treat Sunburn
AVOID using mentholated cream
To help calm the skin, certain skincare products contain menthol and camphor. These consist of shaving cream, moisturizers, and even lotions. Additionally, they may contain hydrating components like shea butter and glycerin, which can be soothing on dry, flaky skin.
Technically, using it on a small area of sunburned skin can soothe it, but it can also irritate it and aggravate the situation. Additionally, according to the National Institutes of Health, many items include scents that might cause allergic contact dermatitis.
DON’T use Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel use is advised by the American Academy of Dermatology to soothe sunburn. Aloe vera’s humectant qualities can aid in attracting additional hydration to the skin’s surface to hasten healing. However, using aloe vera-containing products that have been dermatologist-tested is preferable to using the plant directly. Perform a patch test if you plan to use the plant to rule out allergies.
AVOID covering it in petroleum jelly
There appears to be a petroleum jelly trick for everything these days, except for sunburn. Pure petroleum jelly is an occlusive that clogs pores, hence the NHS highly discourages using it on sunburned skin. Yes, it can aid in keeping moisture in on skin that is healthy.
On burnt skin, however, it traps a variety of substances, including heat and sweat, which causes infections and slow recovery.
BE SURE TO SHOWER
Get out of the sun as soon as you begin to experience sunburn symptoms and cool off. Drinking water will help you stay hydrated, and taking a cold shower will help you feel more comfortable. The Red Cross claims that cold water helps ease pain and swelling. However, avoid using water that is too cold. The charred tissue could sustain more harm.
NOT Applying sunscreen on sunburns
By applying it when you least need it, sunscreen cannot make up for being ignored. Zinc oxide, a component of sunscreen, has anti-inflammatory effects that can help to lessen swelling.
It’s not the only item on the list, though, as other substances can irritate a sunburn. Apply a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic lotion in its place.
To prevent further damage to your skin, follow the safe sunburn treatment instructions. And the following time, use sunscreen immediately to avoid being burned.
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