Use sunscreen, but also keep these tips handy to prevent sunburns

Are you ready for a warm and sunny day? The summer season brings joy, but it also comes with its fair share of skin troubles. Spending time under the sun not only gives you a nice tan but can also lead to sunburns. Sunburns can be painful and take a long time to heal, so it’s crucial to know how to prevent and treat them effectively.

While mild sunburns may fade away in a few days, severe sunburns can cause long-term damage to your skin, such as wrinkles, spots, or dryness. Surprisingly, even if you slather on sunscreen, you may still end up with annoying sunburns. Wondering why? That’s because sunscreen alone is not enough!

You are reading: Use sunscreen, but also keep these tips handy to prevent sunburns

To shed some light on the subject, we spoke to Dr. Noopur Jain, an experienced dermatologist and the founder of Skinzest, a renowned center for dermatology, aesthetics, and cosmetic surgeries in Gurugram. Dr. Jain shared some useful tips to prevent sunburns and advice on how to treat them effectively.

Tips to Prevent Sunburns, As Suggested by Dr. Jain:

1. Don’t venture out in the afternoon

Avoid going out in the middle of the day, particularly between 10 AM and 3 PM. This is when the sun’s rays are most intense and can cause significant damage to your skin. Opt for other times of the day for outdoor activities to minimize your risk of sunburns.

2. Dress for protection

If you can’t avoid being outdoors during peak sun hours, make sure to wear clothing with tightly woven fabric. This will act as a barrier, preventing harmful sun rays from penetrating your skin. Remember, wearing full sleeves is essential for optimal coverage.

3. Shield your eyes with sunglasses

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Never underestimate the power of sunglasses! Make it a habit to wear sunglasses whenever you step out into the scorching sun. They provide crucial protection against harmful UV rays and minimize the risk of sunburns. Keep your sunglasses handy at all times, so you don’t forget them when you need them the most.

4. Seek shade whenever possible

The most effective way to prevent sunburns is to minimize your exposure to direct sunlight. Whenever feasible, stay in shaded areas to protect your skin from the sun’s intense rays. This simple step goes a long way in safeguarding your skin.

5. Embrace the wide-brimmed hat

When venturing out, consider adding a wide-brimmed hat to your ensemble. This will provide extra shade and protect your face from direct sunlight. By covering as much skin as possible, you significantly reduce the risk of sunburns.

6. Sunscreen, even indoors

Whether you’re outdoors or working from home, don’t forget to apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of your skin. Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, regardless of your location. Keep in mind that reapplication every two hours is necessary to maintain effective protection.

If you still find yourself dealing with a sunburn, don’t worry! Dr. Jain has some valuable tips to help you soothe and treat your sunburned skin.

Tips to Treat Sunburns, as Suggested by Dr. Jain:

1. Cool showers for relief

To find relief from sunburns, take frequent cool showers. However, avoid hot tubs and saunas, as they can further aggravate your skin. Also, it’s best to wait a while after sun exposure before taking a shower.

2. Stay hydrated for faster healing

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To aid in the healing process, it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, as this promotes faster healing of sunburned skin.

3. Embrace hydrating moisturizers

To keep your skin soft and glowing and to treat sunburns, apply hydrating moisturizers regularly. Opt for moisturizers containing ingredients like aloe vera or soy, as they help lock in moisture and soothe the skin. Avoid lotions with benzocaine, as they can potentially cause further irritation.

4. Harness the power of chamomile

Chamomile tea serves as an excellent home remedy to soothe sunburned skin. Soak a washcloth in cold chamomile tea and gently apply it to the affected areas for relief.

5. Seek medical advice if necessary

If you notice large blisters or experience symptoms such as nausea, chills, headache, fever, or swollen skin, it’s important to consult a doctor immediately. They will provide the necessary guidance and treatment based on your specific condition.

Remember, if your skin starts peeling or itching lightly, it’s a natural process of your body eliminating damaged cells caused by sunburns. So, don’t worry too much about it.

By following these preventive measures and effective treatment tips, you can enjoy the sun safely and keep sunburns at bay. Stay protected and cherish the joys of summer without worrying about the consequences of sun exposure.

Sources: https://ncvc.org
Category: Health