Summer is here, which typically means more time in the sun. If you find yourself in the position that you forgot to re-apply your SPF protection consistently throughout the day and you are now suffering from a red, sore sunburn, here are a few ways to treat and soothe your skin.
1.) Drink cold water. Drinking cold water will lower the temperature of the body and internally hydrate. This is important to remember because your body loses fluids when it becomes overheated.
2.) Apply a lightweight lotion that contains antioxidants. Sunburn is the ultimate cause of inflammation and skin damage. Using a lotion with antioxidants will help reduce damage that a sunburn can cause deep beneath the skin, encouraging repair. A clear, fragrance free aloe vera gel will relieve and reduce irritation from the burn, while soothing and softening the skin. The aloe will help restore moisture and lost nutrients that were removed by the sun. In addition, it can be re-applied continuously to moisturize the burn without causing more damage to the skin.
3.) Don’t over moisturize with standard lotion. If you apply too much lotion (without healing power) to your sunburn, the heavy oils in the lotion have the potential to act as a barrier and trap heat, causing the skin to remain red longer.
And finally, let this be your lesson – remember to reapply SPF consistently throughout the day, wear a protective hat, and stay under the shade whenever possible.
