Many of us are bound to experience sunburn at some point. However, dealing with sunburn properly is crucial to minimize its damage to your skin. In this blog post, we'll explore some expert tips on how to treat sunburn and prevent it from happening in the first place. So let's dive in and discover the best ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing
1. Recognize the Signs and Act Fast
As soon as you realize you're getting burned, it's essential to get out of the sun to prevent further damage. Taking an anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen can help slow down the inflammatory process and provide some relief.
2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Sunburn not only damages your skin but also leaves you dehydrated. Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated, as it aids in the healing process.
3. Cool Showers for Soothing Relief
A cool shower can help soothe the burning sensation and reduce inflammation. Avoid hot showers as they can exacerbate the discomfort.
4. Assess the Skin and Protect the Barrier
If your sunburn leads to blistering or peeling, your skin barrier is compromised. To aid the healing process, it's crucial to protect the skin and retain moisture. Opt for ointments like our Restore Healing Balm or plain Vaseline to keep the affected area moisturized and promote healing.
5. Avoid Harmful Products
While reaching for aloe vera might be a common instinct, gels can cause the skin to lose more water due to evaporation. Additionally, gels can be painful if applied to open wounds. Avoid products like Neosporin and Aquaphor, as they can trigger allergic reactions and hinder the healing process.
6. Antioxidants - Your Skin's Best Friend
Before heading outdoors, consider using antioxidant serums containing vitamin C. These serums help minimize free radical damage caused by sun exposure, offering an extra layer of protection for your skin.
7. Prevention is Key
Remember, prevention is the best cure. Just because you've endured sunburns in the past doesn't mean you should continue to do so. Your skin is always working to repair itself, and taking preventive measures now can significantly reduce the risk of future sun damage and skin cancer.
Taking care of your skin after sunburn is essential to minimize the damage and promote faster healing. By recognizing the signs of sunburn and acting promptly, staying hydrated, using appropriate products, and incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine, you can give your skin the best chance at recovery. Moreover, adopting sun-safe habits can protect your skin in the long run and reduce the risk of skin cancer. So, enjoy the summer responsibly, and take proactive steps to achieve and maintain healthy, glowing skin for years to come.
Remember, healthy skin is within your reach – make the most of it!
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These recommendations are not sponsored. They are the result of Dr. Heather D. Rogers, MD evidence-based research and extensive clinical experience.
Meet the Author: Heather D. Rogers, MD, founder of Doctor Rogers Skin Care, is a double-board certified dermatologic surgeon who sees patients full-time at her practice Modern Dermatology in Seattle, WA. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Rogers' year-long waitlist stems from outstanding results and her candor about what the skin really needs for life long beauty and health. She is a graduate of Stanford University, the University of Washington School of Medicine, and completed her dermatology residency and fellowships at Columbia University Medical Center in Manhattan. She is regularly quoted as the expert in national press and lectures internationally on skincare, aesthetics, surgery, and improving patient outcomes. Dr. Rogers is fortunate to be perennially listed as a Top Doctor in Seattle and among the top 1% most awarded physicians in the US.
