5 Summer Tips for Sun Burns and Skin Care
Mid to late summer always packs a punch of heat, which drives many Americans to the lakes and beaches. A mix of fun and long lazy days in the sun can do a number on your skin, especially if you're unprotected. Fortunately, there are a few ways to speed the healing process, and relieve discomfort from sunburns at home.
At QuickrxRefills, we hear our share of stories regarding skin damage due to the sun, and we want to help you protect and nourish your skin this summer season. Check out these 5 summer tips for sun burn and skin care at home, and try them yourself.
1. Prevention is Key: Of course, the number one way to deal with sunburns is to avoid getting them in the first place. Cover up by wearing a hat, and some form of wrap or light material over your bathing suit. If you plan to spend a long period of time on a beach, or in any sunny space outside, bring portable shade, such as an umbrella or tent.
Sunscreen is an essential protective element during the summer months, because it provides a barrier between your cells and the radioactive damage of the sun's rays. Most doctors recommend using SPF 50 or higher to guard yourself against skin damage and burns. Remember that as your skin burns, the cells are being damaged. This damage is painful, and can cause blisters, peeling skin, and even skin cancer.
Prevention becomes even more important once a burn has occurred. You'll want to be extra careful to cover up and stay out of the sun until the burn has healed. Burning on top of a burn will cause additional damage, more discomfort, and might even cause irreparable damage.
2. Hydrate the Skin: Hydration is crucial in the summer, and this goes double for your skin, which takes the brunt of the sun's attention. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water, and lathering up with an unscented moisturizer after bathing.
Unscented moisturizers tend to be less drying than scented ones, simply because of the additives in many scented products. The best time to hydrate with lotion is after a warm shower when your pores are open and will get the most from the process.
3. Oatmeal Bath: A cool bath can really help reduce the discomfort of a sunburn, but bathing in water alone will strip your skin of its natural oils and dry it out. Rather than soaking in a basic bath, try adding a cup of oatmeal and two tablespoons of baby oil to the mix. This will reduce itching and pain, and give your skin a glossy coat of much needed moisture.
Oatmeal isn't the only bath water additive to sooth a burn, you can also try adding chamomile tea bags or a cup of apple cider vinegar to sooth itchiness and alter the PH levels of damaged skin. Following a soak in the tub, try applying cool tea bags, blended cucumbers, or plain yogurt to the skin.
4. Topical Cream: Sunburns need to be cared for carefully, but after all the soaking and moisturizing you might still be in a bit of pain and discomfort. Aloe vera is a naturally occurring tropical plant, which has analgesic properties. You can buy aloe vera at most supermarkets and pharmacies in the form of a topical rub or spray. Liberally coat the affected area, and the aloe will soak into your skin, cooling and hydrating as it does so.
If aloe isn't doing the trick, there are a variety of topical anesthetics for sunburns to choose from. These work by infusing the affected burn with a small amount of medicated ointment which immediately depletes the sting and burning sensation. Lidocaine and benzocaine are typical ingredients in topical burn anesthetic.
5. Keep it Clean: Sunburns cause peels, blisters, and open sores, which can lead to infection if you're not careful. Keep your sunburns clean and dry, when it's not coated in a topical cream or anesthetic. Watch for bleeding, strange smells, oozing, or discoloration, which could all be signs of infection. If you do notice any strange look or smell coming from the sunburn, contact your physician immediately.
Sunburns are extremely sensitive, which usually puts your standard soap out of the running for use. Try a soap for sensitive skin, and be sure to rinse well so that no drying residue is left on your burn. Pat dry with a clean towel, rather than rubbing the skin, which could cause further peeling and discomfort. Remember to follow up with your moisturizing routine, and continue to stay hydrated.
Enjoying your summer vacation but forget your prescription at home? Our team of U.S. based doctors work one on one with you to determine your medical needs and supply you with a prescription, which is send directly to a local pharmacy in your current area. For affordable, convenient, and discreet prescription services, contact us today!
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