How To Properly Prevent, Treat, And Heal A Sunburn

Get Out Of The Sun

Dermatologists routinely advise patients to get out of the sun as much as possible to prevent sunburns. In particular, it is important to stay indoors between ten in the morning and four in the afternoon; these hours are when the sun is especially strong. Even if they are not on the beach, patients can still be sunburned if they are doing water sports like swimming or sailing, because the water reflects the sun's rays. To minimize sun exposure, patients should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Doctors recommend selecting one with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least thirty. It should be applied roughly thirty minutes before sun exposure. Most adults need to apply at least an ounce, and sunscreen typically needs to be reapplied every two hours.

When using sunscreen, patients should ensure they apply it to all exposed areas, particularly the back of the neck, face, lips, and ears. Wearing clothing with built-in sun protection is advisable, and the use of a wide-brimmed hat can help deflect the sun. If possible, patients may wish to consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeved swim tops and long swim pants to minimize the amount of skin exposed to the sun. Patients currently healing from a sunburn should not go out in the sun while they are healing, as this can cause further pain and prolong the healing process. Individuals who have had a sunburn in the past are at an increased risk of skin cancer, and they may wish to consult a dermatologist to check whether it is safe for them to go out into the sun. Patients on certain medications may need to avoid sun exposure as well.

Take Cool Showers And Baths

Patients treating a sunburn can take cool showers and baths to help reduce their discomfort as often as needed. After getting out of the bathtub or shower, it is important to pat the skin dry with a soft towel; rubbing the skin could cause pain. When patting the skin dry, doctors recommend allowing it to remain a little damp. Next, the patient should immediately apply a moisturizer. Applying moisturizer directly after a bath can help trap more moisture in the skin, speeding up the healing process and reducing dryness. In addition to cool baths, patients may find applying a cool, damp towel to their skin for ten to fifteen minutes is beneficial for pain relief, and this can be done several times each day.