Avoid and treat a sunburn

Learn how to prevent and treat sunburn so common in summer!

by Margarida Gamboa

They are common themes but it is always important to remember. With summer coming, sunburn from overexposure to the sun on the beach, in the pool, or even on a simple walk is frequent. We remember that sunburns lead to premature aging of the skin, are very dangerous and a possible cause of melanoma (cancer of the skin). On the other hand, it is super important for the human body, from a physical and mental point of view, to sunbathe. How to do it safely? How to treat sunburn?

How to avoid sunburn?

. Avoid the sun during the hottest period and when the ultraviolet rays are more violent - usually between 11 am and 4 pm. Always check the local weather and if it is a day with a UV level 10 (maximum level), adjust this time to 10 am - 5 pm.

. Always use sunscreen, suitable for your skin type. As a rule, the sunscreen should be at least 30. Children should have an age-appropriate sunscreen, at least 50. The sunscreen should be replaced in all areas exposed to the sun every two to three hours (don't forget areas such as the ears, neck, hands or feet).

. After sunbathing, always apply solar moisturizer for quick skin recovery.

. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential to maintain skin hydration which also helps to prevent the skin from burning so fast (being healthier, the skin is naturally more protected).

. You must be especially careful with all the spots and signs that you have on your skin. Make regular appointments with the dermatologist and, if you notice any change in a sign or spot, do not postpone this visit to the doctor.

. Do not stay in water for too long: you can remove the sunscreen, in addition to the fact that it does not feel so hot in the water and therefore the sun will burn without you noticing it. As soon as you leave the water, apply sunscreen again.

. Wear hats on your head and also protect your eyes with polarized sunglasses, with protection against ultraviolet rays.

. Do not forget your lips and protect it with lipstick with sun protection.

. Sunburn doesn't just happen on the beach or in the pool. Be careful when going for a walk in the open air, going to a concert / festival or even driving for a while.

What are the signs of a sunburn?

A sunburn is very easy to identify, because it causes pain or, at the very least, discomfort in contact with clothing. The severity of the burn varies its appearance, but it always leaves the skin red. If it is more severe it may have small bubbles or even a purple color.

How to treat a sunburn?

To relieve a burn, apply a skin cream specifically designed for this purpose, consulting your doctor or pharmacist. In addition to creams, there are also some tips that you can apply at home that will relieve pain and help your skin recover:

. Cool the burned skin immediately with warm water. If it is a long burn, take a shower or put damp clothes on the skin.

. You can relieve the burn by using cold milk. Dip a piece of cotton wool or a gauze pad in cold milk and apply to the burnt areas.

. When bathing, choose to fill the bathtub with water with a cup of fine oatmeal. It will relieve the pain and itching that the burn creates.

. Hydrate the skin with a cream with vitamin E or with Aloe Vera, ideally.

If you have a fever, headache, dizziness, nausea or blisters start to see your doctor immediately.