SUNBURN RECOVERY

Sunburn: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Sunburn is a common issue that occurs when the skin is exposed to sunlight for too long without proper protection. The effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause serious damage to the skin, leading to pain, swelling, redness, blistering, and even skin cancer. UV rays penetrate the skin, damaging cells and triggering melanin production (the skin's pigment). While melanin helps protect the skin from UV damage, excessive UV exposure forces the body to produce too much melanin, resulting in darkened skin and typical symptoms of sunburn. What Should You Do if You Get Sunburned? When sunburn occurs, it is crucial to act quickly to minimize skin damage and promote healing. Here are the steps you should take: Avoid further sun exposure: Move immediately into a shaded area or indoors. Avoid sun exposure for at least 24–48 hours until the skin begins to recover. Use a moisturizer: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to the sunburned skin to help maintain hydration and aid recovery. It's best to reapply moisturizer in the evening and before bedtime. Take pain relief medication: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help reduce pain and fever. Apply aloe vera: Ideally, visit a spa for a pure aloe vera wrap treatment. Pure aloe vera is essential for quickly and effectively alleviating sunburn. Aloe vera soothes the skin, reduces inflammation, and promotes faster healing. Avoid rubbing or scratching the skin: Rubbing or scratching sunburned skin can worsen damage and delay the healing process. How to Effectively Prevent Sunburn To protect your skin from sun damage and prevent sunburn, follow these measures: Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your skin 15–20 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming. Cover your skin: Wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses when outdoors. Limit sun exposure during peak hours: Try to stay indoors or in the shade during peak sunlight hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and support healthy skin. Use suitable skincare products: After sun exposure, use moisturizing and soothing products to repair and nourish your skin. Be aware of your surroundings: Surfaces like sand, water, and snow can reflect UV rays, increasing your risk of sunburn even when you are in the shade.