It's almost too easy to get carried away while you're having fun in the sun. Despite the blistering heat, you might not recognize your skin sending you stress signals before you're red all over and officially sunburnt.
Sunburn, although extremely common in the summer and in tropical climates like ours, is a serious condition that needs special attention. "Most sunburns are first degree burns but when severe can cause swelling and even fluid-filled papules called vesicles or blisters," explains Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas of BeautiqueMD.
Hence if you’re heading to the beach or simply love your time in the sun, here's a derma-approved guide to treating sunburnt skin:
How to know if you're sunburnt
You're sunburnt when your skin turns red, feels warm, and becomes painful after being under the sun. According to the dermatologist, other symptoms can manifest internally as well. "Oftentimes those who have sunburn involving large areas of the body may feel feverish. Some experience the chills, headache and body weakness," she says.
How to treat it
First of all, Dr. Gaile says that you have to act fast. Find shade immediately (or even better, stay indoors) to avoid further sun exposure and high tempratures. Treat your skin from the inside out by doing the following:
1. Drink lots of water.
2. Take a cool bath or shower.
3. Apply cold compresses to sunburnt areas.
4. Apply gentle soothing creams and moisturizers such as ones that contain aloe vera.
What NOT to do when you sunburnt
In your haste to get better, you might opt to try different things to speed up the healing process. Here are a few things that the dermatologist recommends you avoid:
1. Avoid using products that could further irritate the skin. (Products with heavy fragrance, alcohol, etc.)
2. Stay away from direct sunlight and heat exposure.
3. Wear soft, non-abrasive clothing such as cotton or silk.
4. Once your start peeling, let your skin shed naturally and avoid pulling at it.
How to calm down sunburnt skin and prevent irritation
What you do after first aid is equally crucial to healing burnt skin. You may visit your dermatologist for some extra help, and Dr. Gaile shares that they may prescribe you with topical steroid creams for inflamed areas. If your sunburn feels particularly painful still, you may attempt taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen, which will reduce discomfort and swelling.
As you do all this, she also recommends to wear protective clothing (long sleeves, jackets, etc.) and sunscreen when you step outside. Don't forget to keep your skin moisturized with emollient creams as well to give it a protective film that prevents further irritation through dryness.
This story originally appeared on Preview.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Femalenetwork.com editors.
