A Sunburn is a form of radiation burn affecting the skin and is a result of overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Its normal symptoms include redness of the skin, general fatigue and mildness dizziness. Other symptoms include edema, itching, peeling skin, rash, nausea, fever, and chills.
Sunburn can occur in less than 15 minutes and the skin may turn red within 30 minutes or at the most from 2 to 6 hours. Long-term exposure to sunlight also causes premature ageing of the skin.
Variations
Minor sunburns cause just slight redness of the skin. In more serious cases, blistering can occur. Extreme sunburns can be painful and can lead to hospitalization.
Home treatments for mild sunburns:
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever: Ibuprofen and aspirin are popular options. These help in reducing pain, but do not give these medicines to kids. Instead, opt for acetaminophen.
- Apply soothing lotions that contain aloe Vera or an anti-inflammatory paste
- Take a bath: Set the temperature of water below lukewarm and relax for 10 to 20 minutes. The water will ease the irritation. After this take shower. Avoid using soap or oils. Do not dry your skin with a towel. If you can’t take bath, use cool clothes on the sunburned areas.
- Apply cortisone cream to treat inflammation: Cortisone creams contain a small dose of steroids that reduce skin inflammation.
- Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Taking care of your sunburned areas
- If you are going outside, then try and cover the affected area with clothes. If the area cannot be covered, then apply a thin layer of aloe Vera on the burn, and out 45 SPF sunscreen on it.
- Use umbrellas to safe yourself from the rays of the Sun.
- Apply unscented moisturizer to your skin as it starts to heal over: This will prevent peeling and irritation.
If you feel nothing is affecting you or you feeling dizzy or extremely thirsty, pale, and nauseatic, visit a doctor immediately.
