Methods for Rapid Sunburn Recovery, Disclosed by a Skin Specialist
Healing Sunburn: Expert-Approved Methods for Overnight Recovery
Sunburn can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but with the right care, it can be eased and healed effectively. Here are some expert-recommended methods to help you recover from sunburn overnight.
Firstly, it's crucial to avoid alcohol while dealing with sunburn due to its potential to exacerbate symptoms, according to Carolina Goncalves, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmica. Instead, opt for alternative beverages.
When sunburn occurs, Goncalves recommends applying a gentle moisturiser containing aloe vera as soon as possible. This can help ease pain and inflammation. One such product is the Calypso Aftersun Gel, an intensive moisturiser with aloe vera and witch hazel that soothes sunburn quickly.
To cool the skin and reduce heat and inflammation, a cool compress or a bath with cool water can be used. This should be done without applying ice directly to the skin to avoid further irritation. Dr Kajal Babamiri, dermatologist and aesthetic doctor at CLNQ, also endorses the use of a cold compress to keep skin cool and reduce inflammation after sunburn.
Applying soothing moisturisers such as aloe vera gel or fragrance-free lotions multiple times, especially after cooling the skin, is also recommended. This helps maintain hydration and supports repair.
Gentle, fragrance-free cleansers should be used, and harsh rubbing or exfoliation should be avoided to prevent further skin barrier damage. It's also advisable to review one's skincare routine if needed to avoid using products that may worsen sunburn symptoms.
Staying hydrated is essential for sunburn recovery. This can be achieved by drinking plenty of water and consuming hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumber. Adding electrolytes to your water can also help.
Natural remedies such as diluted apple cider vinegar (1:1 with water) applied gently or added to a bath may balance skin pH and reduce inflammation. However, it's important to note that these methods are not a substitute for medical advice.
Avoid peeling or popping blisters to prevent infection and delayed healing; keeping the area moisturized can help ease flaking skin. Sleeping in a cool, breathable environment wearing loose cotton fabrics can also help minimize sweating and irritation overnight.
For blisters, applying topical vitamin E can help reduce inflammation and the chance of discoloration after healing.
If sunburn is severe (extensive blistering, fever, or intense pain), seek medical attention as these methods are for mild to moderate burns only.
Wearing sun-protective (UPF) or darker-coloured clothing can help protect the skin from further sunburn while healing. It's also worth noting that UV levels can still be high on overcast days in the UK, making it possible to get sunburned.
Remember, complete healing of a sunburn in less than 24 hours will be a challenge. Mild sunburns may start to feel better within a couple of days, but more severe burns can take several days to a week to heal fully. It's important to be patient and continue caring for the sunburned area even as it begins to improve.
By following these expert-approved approaches, you can focus on soothing the skin, preventing further damage, maintaining hydration, and reducing inflammation to facilitate healing overnight. Avoid alcohol, sugary foods, and abrasive products as they can increase inflammation or irritation.
- To maintain overall health alongside sunburn recovery, staying hydrated is crucial by drinking plenty of water, consuming hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumber, and even adding electrolytes to your water.
- As part of a comprehensive health-and-wellness routine during sunburn recovery, gentle, fragrance-free cleansers should be used, and harsh rubbing or exfoliation should be avoided to prevent further skin barrier damage.
- Incorporating skin-care products like aloe vera gel or fragrance-free lotions, applied multiple times, especially after cooling the skin, can help maintain hydration and support repair.
- In addition to skincare, focusing on proper nutrition and diet during sunburn recovery can also aid in overall health, with nutrition playing a vital role in promoting wellness.
- While recovering from sunburn, it's important to pay attention to your home environment, as sleeping in a cool, breathable environment wearing loose cotton fabrics can help minimize sweating and irritation overnight.
