A major and extremely unpleasant issue that affects all women is getting a sunburn. A sunburn alters our skin’s smooth texture and key characteristics in addition to making it appear dark and unattractive.
The face, neck, and arms are the body parts most prone to sun tan. We try to get rid of the tanning by using chemical creams and lotions that protect against sunburn. The trips to the salon could reduce the tan, but they do not provide us with sufficient results. Homemade cures are what help the condition when physical and chemical methods of removing the tan fail.
Sunburn in other words is also known as photoaging. When the skin is exposed for a prolonged period of time to UVA and UVB radiation then there are chances of skin undergoing early degeneration.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SUNBURN?
When the skin is exposed to the sun red or erythematous skin is observed in that area. If not treated on time it can also be cancerous due to reduced production of mast cells that are responsible for immunity.
Sunburn can affect each and every person but its severity may vary. Generally, people with lighter skin tones are more prone to sunburns.
After exposure to the sun, you may experience the following symptoms;
- Hot skin
- Erythematous skin
- Burning sensation
- Itching
- Blisters
- Sensitivity to touch
In case of severe sunburn, the whole body can also be affected and can show the following symptoms
- fever
- chills
- body ache
- nausea
- vomiting
A person can also undergo heat stroke since sunburns are the initial symptom. If you notice the following symptoms you have high chance to undergo a heatstroke;
- dehydration
- giddiness
- rapid pulse
- low blood pressure
- difficulty in breathing
- hallucinations
Consult, the doctor immediately if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above as it a medical emergency. The body temperature raises above 104F and needs immediate cool down.
WHAT IS THE POSSIBLE TREATMENT FOR SUN BURN?
- Avoid being outside and instead go inside.
- Till the sunburn has healed, stay out of the sun.
- Use a moist cloth or towel to cool the skin, or take a cool bath.Use an after-sun lotion or moisturiser, such as aloe vera.
- To ease pain and reduce swelling, take over-the-counter medications such ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Apply hydrocortisone cream to soothe itching and inflammation.
- Increase your water intake to ward off dehydration.
- To lower the chance of infection, refrain from handling or breaking tiny blisters. Skin is protected by blisters.
- Do not pick, scratch, or remove peeling skin.
- Wear comfortable clothing as your skin heals.
WHAT TYPE OF SUNSCREEN SHOULD BE USED?
Commercial products called sunblocks and sunscreens inhibit UV rays when applied to the skin. Based on the sunscreen’s capacity to shield users from the sun, they are given an SPF rating. The greater the SPF rating, the more UVB ray protection one can anticipate, and the less likely it is that direct skin damage will happen.
Additionally, the sunscreen must to block UVA rays. Although UVA radiation does not burn the skin, it does speed up skin ageing and raise the risk of skin cancer. A lot of sunscreens offer broad-spectrum protection, which means they shield users from UVA and UVB rays.
Everyone should wear sunscreen with the following ingredients, according to the American Academy of Dermatology: water resistance and an SPF of 30+ UVA and UVB protection.
In order to apply sunscreen, people should:
- Use a lot to cover the body; the average person only uses 25–50% of what is required.
- Pay close attention to the neck, the tips of the feet, and other areas that are simple to overlook.
- 15 minutes before exposure, apply.
- Use on dry skin.
- Reapply after swimming or perspiring every two hours.
- Use lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.
- Before using, review any instructions on the packaging.
Some nations are now outlawing sunscreens that are not reef-friendly as environmental concerns increase. There are additional ways that sunscreens can hurt you, but some options are less dangerous.
When purchasing sunscreen :
choosing products with micro-sized or non-nanoparticles, as these are less toxic than nanoparticles, and using a lotion instead of a spray or mist sunscreen as lotions are less likely to be harmful to human health. Choosing a sunscreen with the least amount of plastic and packaging necessary.
TAKEAWAY
Spending too much time in the sun can result in sunburn. Skin burns might result from it. Sunburn can affect anybody, regardless of skin tone, while those with lighter skin are more vulnerable.
Home remedies can typically make people feel better, but if a person experiences fever, dizziness, or changes in consciousness, they need to see a doctor right once.
Limiting time spent in the sun and taking precautions like using sunscreen, hanging out in the shade, and donning body-covering clothing are some ways to help prevent sunburn.
