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Soothing the Burn: Effective Treatments for Sunburn Relief
Published: Feb 01, 2024
While prevention is key, sometimes sunburn happens. Knowing how to treat it can speed up healing and provide much-needed relief.
Cool It Down
The first step in treating sunburn is cooling the skin. Take a cool bath or shower, or apply cool compresses to the affected areas. This helps draw heat from the skin, providing immediate relief. It's like giving your skin a refreshing drink of water!
Moisturize and Soothe
After cooling, apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel. This helps prevent dryness and peeling. For extra relief, try refrigerating your moisturizer before applying. It's like giving your skin a cool, comforting hug!
Pain and Inflammation Management
For pain relief, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help. These also reduce inflammation. Start taking them as soon as you notice symptoms for best results. Think of it as sending in reinforcements to help your skin's defense system!
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Sunburn draws fluid to the skin surface and away from the rest of the body. Drink extra water to prevent dehydration. If you have blisters, don't pop them - they're your body's natural bandages. Hydration is like replenishing your body's internal cooling system.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, these can trap heat and worsen the burn.
No, it can damage the skin further. Use cool, not cold, compresses.
If you have severe blistering, fever, or signs of heat stroke.
Yes, it increases skin cancer risk and can cause premature aging.
Typically 3-7 days, but can vary based on severity.
Time Heals
While these treatments can provide relief, remember that sunburn takes time to heal, and prevention is always better than cure.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology. How to treat sunburn. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/treat-sunburn
- Faurschou A, Wulf HC. Topical corticosteroids in the treatment of acute sunburn: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Arch Dermatol 2008; 144:620.
- Rhodes LE, et al. The sunburn response in human skin is characterized by sequential eicosanoid profiles that may mediate its early and late phases. FASEB J 2009; 23:3947.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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