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Sunkissed glow can look like a god-sent gift, but a sunburn? Absolutely not! So what’s the good news? This article lists dermatologically recommended remedies to treat those nasty sunburns! Want to know how? Read on to know more.

What exactly is a sunburn?

Prolonged exposure to the sun can result in red and painful skin. However, individuals don't need to spend an entire day in the sun tanning or at the beach to get sunburned.

Simple activities like walking a dog or doing everyday activities like gardening can also cause sunburns. Individuals with sensitive skin are more prone to sunburn, too.

Symptoms of sunburn on the skin:

• Peeled skin
• Reddish skin (due to inflammation)
• Swelling
• Pain in the affected area
• Blisters
• Numbness in a specific area

Other symptoms (not on skin):

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Cramps
• Nausea
• Extreme fatigue
  

How to manage sunburn?

If you wish to treat a stinging and burning sunburn, it is important to do so as soon as possible. The first basic and most important step is to stay indoors, especially if the sunburn becomes too severe.

Let us look at some tips to manage sunburn:

1. Frequent cold showers or baths: Cold showers or baths can aid in quickly bringing down your body temperature and even reduce inflammation. If you are not a fan of cold showers, you can also apply cold compresses or ice packs to the area affected by sunburn. Avoid bathing using hard water, as hard water can contain minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can affect your skin barrier and cause more skin damage.
2. Moisturize the affected area: The area affected by sunburn can be dry. To reduce the pain and dryness, use a moisturizer in the affected area. It also minimizes skin peeling caused due to burns. A moisturizer that contains soy or aloe can be beneficial. You can apply the moisturizer immediately after the bath on damp skin to improve its absorption. Calamine lotion can also aid in reducing inflammation and soothing the sunburned skin. You can also place a damp cloth in the affected area.
3. Consume water: Consuming enough water can help prevent dehydration. Sunburn can drain your body off fluids. This can lead to dizziness, dry mouth, and fatigue. Hydrating oneself with water can prevent this scenario.
4. Take Ibuprofen or painkillers: Ibuprofen and Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) can bring down pain and inflammation. Make sure to seek medical attention before taking medications.
5. Do not pop the blisters: Avoid popping, rubbing, or repeatedly touching the blisters. Also, avoid peeling the skin. Your body can heal on its own.
6. Cover yourself up: Wear long-sleeved shirts or long pants to reduce excessive sun exposure. Cover the sunburned areas with the cloth to avoid being more exposed to the sun.
   

Remember that following these remedies can help in soothing sunburn quickly! Make sure to seek medical attention if your symptoms become too severe. Stay sun-safe and stay happy.