Sunburns can take time to heal, but multiple ways exist to support the healing process. This article looks at the most effective ways to heal sunburn faster.
What Are the Healing Remedies?
To heal from first-degree sunburns, you need to give your body time to replace the damaged skin. First-degree sunburn only damages the outer layer of your skin. This makes it look red but begins peeling after a few days as your skin replaces itself. You can maximize your healing process by:
● Staying hydrated
● Moisturizing your skin
● Getting plenty of rest
Other tips for supporting your healing process include:
● Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID): This can help you reduce pain and inflammation
● Try an oatmeal bath: This can soothe your skin and reduce irritation.
● Apply hydrocortisone cream: This can treat your itchiness and swelling.
● Avoid extra sun exposure: If you have to go out, wear sunscreen and cover your sunburn with clothing.
Factors That Affect Healing
Sunburn is the result of overexposure to UV rays. The more you are exposed, the more likely your skin will burn. People with darker skin do not burn as quickly as those with paler skin. This is because they produce more pigment melanin, protecting themselves from UV damage.
The amount of time it takes your body to replace your damaged skin will depend on the severity of the burn. For instance, mild sunburn symptoms clear up in 3 to 5 days. However, more severe burns can take weeks to heal.
Conditions and lifestyle habits affecting your immune system can also slow the healing process. This includes:
● Smoking
● Malnutrition
● Obesity
● Chronic stress
● Poor circulation
Risks
The most significant risk factors to consider regarding sunburns are the intensity of exposure and how long you remain in the sun. Additionally, there are a number of factors that can increase your chances of getting sunburned. These include:
● Staying outside between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun is hottest.
● If you are located in an area with a depleted ozone layer
● If you are in high-altitude areas with little protection from UV rays.
Preventing Sunburn
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can prevent sunburn in the following ways:
● Always apply sunscreen
● Wear a hat and glasses when you go outside.
● Avoid the sunniest part of the day
Conclusion
Sunburn is caused by overexposure to UV rays. You can speed up your healing by staying
hydrated and applying moisturizer to your skin.
