Treating Sunburn – A Quick Guide

3 January, 2011 No Comment

Sunburn is the concerned with inflammation on the outer layer of the skin. It is caused due to overexposer to the sun. Sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer also. Sunburn is not restricted to summer season. Many people suffer from sunburn during winter season as well.

Causes of sunburn: Sunburn is mainly caused by intensive exposure to sunlight. Though it also depends on an individual’s skin pigmentation. A skin pigment called melanin is the natural defense against sunburn.

Fair-skinned people are more prone to sunburn because they have less melanin than dark-skinned people. Melanin absorbs the sun’s ultraviolet rays. There are some antibiotics and other drugs which can cause sunburn. They make the skin more sensitive to the sun.

Symptoms of sunburn: There are mainly three types of sunburn. One is mild, second is moderate and third is severe sunburn. If you find reddish spots on skin coupled with inflammation and irritation, it is sunburn.

In moderate sunburn, red skin can also come up with blisters, and you may feel itchiness. In severe sunburn, the skin becomes deep red to purplish. This may come up with or without blisters and may be accompanied by severe irritation.

Treatment options: If you have a problem of sunburn, then stay away from the sun between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun rays are strongest. Cover yourself up with clothing and a wide brimmed hat. Always use a good-quality sunscreen lotion whenever you go outdoors.

You can also opt some home remedies for treating sunburn. You can add a cup of finely ground oatmeal to a bath. It can help relieve pain and itching as well.
You can try another home remedy. Add a few drops of chamomile oil or lavender oil to your bathtub. You can also mix one tablespoon of almond oil with lavender oil and apply this mixture on the affected skin at least twice a day. These procedures are very affective in treating sunburn.

If you do not get the required items, apply aloe vera gel over affected areas of the skin. Dosage of 500 mg of vitamin C, 250 mg of Vitamin E twice a day can also help in treating sunburn. These vitamins act as antioxidants and control free radicals produced by sunlight. Fish oil can also reduce inflammation and fasten recovery.