Sunburn Treatment

Tips to avoid sunburn

o A small amount of sun every day can be a good thing as it produces beneficial Vitamin D in the skin but we must emphasize the word small. Sunburn can occur in less than 15 minutes.
o If you are going to be in the sun for leisure or work activities, then you must wear protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Pay special attention to the back of the neck which can often be exposed.
o Use a sun block with a high sun protection factor as the higher the SPF number the more protection the sun block will have. Make sure you apply enough sunscreen, in thick layers, and that you reapply it at regular intervals. If you are swimming or sweating, the sun block is going to lose its effectiveness. Sunscreens are not waterproof.
o Make sure you have a watch so you can keep an eye on the time and recognize how long you have been in the sun. Try to avoid sun exposure during the hours of 10 am to 2 pm when the sun’s rays are most intense.
o The use of alcohol or drugs can make you less aware of the dangers of sunburn.
o If you are using certain medications such as antibiotics, antipsoriatics or acne medicines, you may be even more sensitive to the sun. And skin that has been scarred or injured is even more susceptible.
o Certain skin disorders such as herpes simplex, lupus and prophyria may become worse if you are exposed to the sun.
o Stay away from tanning beds as these can be dangerous.
o Remember that the eyes are very sensitive to sun exposure and preferably wrap around sun glasses which block UV light should be worn.

Tips for the relief of mild sunburn

o Take a pain killer as this can be useful to relieve some of the pain and discomfort.
o Take a cool bath but don’t use any bath salts, oils or perfumes because they may cause a sensitivity reaction. Don’t scrub or rub the skin and avoid shaving. Use soft towels to gently pat yourself dry and apply a light skin moisturizer but this should be fragrant free.
o You can use a cool compress with equal parts of milk and water on the affected areas.
o Keep out of the sun until all signs of your mild sunburn have disappeared.
o Continue to keep the skin moisturized.
o Drink plenty of liquids.

You should seek immediate medical advice for sunburn if any of the following symptoms arise:

o Severe headache, pain or blistering.
o Confusion.
o Fainting.
o Nausea or vomiting.
o An acute problem with another medical condition.