Unpleasant or even painful skin inflammatory reaction, sunburn is unfortunately a must in the summer for some of us. Find out everything you need to know about sunburn!
What is a sunburn?
Also called solar erythema, sunburn is a more or less serious burn of the skin due to too long exposure to UV rays released by the sun. This is an inflammatory reaction that affects even more light, red or sensitive skin. Redness, tightness, itching, even blisters… A sunburn is quite unpleasant and can have consequences on the skin in the short and long term. While it is usually a first-degree burn, it also happens that a sunburn leads to second-degree burns, which is the case when blisters appear on the skin. Whatever happens, the skin reddens and becomes much more sensitive. The simple rubbing of a garment can become particularly uncomfortable and painful.
To find out if you have a sunburn, simply press the affected area with your fingers. If the skin is white when you remove your fingers and it very quickly resumes a bright pink or red color, then you have a sunburn… If the latter mainly concerns the skin, know that it is also possible to catch one on the eye! This is why wearing a pair of protective and suitable glasses is essential in the sun, especially near water or snow.
Why do we get sunburned?
Not all skins are equal in the face of external aggressions, especially when it comes to UV rays. Indeed, some skins are more fragile and more likely to get sunburns such as light, red or white skin. Matte skin has a much higher level of melanin, which is why it is less conducive to sunburn. Be careful, matte skin is not protected from UVB rays, so it is important to apply sun protection during exposure. A sunburn is an inflammation in response to external aggression. This confirms once again that too long exposure to UV rays is not good for the skin!
The short and long-term consequences of a sunburn?
The symptoms of a simple sunburn subside after a few days. All you have to do is moisturize your skin to help it heal as quickly as possible and avoid peeling. Be careful, if the sunburn is more important, it will be necessary to avoid any friction during this period. Indeed, peeling occurs because the layers of burned skin will come off in the form of flaps after 3 to 5 days, so avoid attacking the skin at this time. So avoid washcloths and other scrubs and opt for a superfat shower gel and a moisturizer for the body.
Generally, a sunburn can be treated at home. However, if you notice additional symptoms such as migraines, fever, dizziness, dizziness or nausea, you may be suffering from sunstroke! In this case, make an appointment with your doctor immediately or go to the nearest emergency department. Similarly, if you notice that a mole has changed its appearance or that your skin looks unusual a few days after a sunburn, see a dermatologist. Repeated sunburns increase the risk of skin cancer and destroy the elastic fibers of your skin, which can lead to premature aging in the long term. Here’s everything you need to know about sunburn and how to care for it.
How to take care of a sunburn?
The skin takes an average of a week to heal following a sunburn (depending on the intensity of course). In order to help him, the key word is: HYDRATION! Use a shower oil or superfat shower gel and apply a moisturizing agent to each shower outlet. If you have blisters on your skin, especially do not touch them, simply protect them with sterile dressings. Also, avoid exposing yourself to the sun until your skin has returned to its normal appearance.
Here are some natural tips to stimulate skin healing after a sunburn:
- Aloe Vera gel;
- St. John’s wort vegetable oil;
- The miEl;
- Essential oil of chamomile matricaire;
- Roman chamomile hydrosol.
Avoid sunburn: our tips!
Because the best way not to suffer from a sunburn is still not to catch it, here are our tips to avoid sun-related inconveniences:
- Take a course of beta-carotenes 2 months before exposure to stimulate the skin’s melanin production and prepare the skin for tanning;
- Avoid exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.;
- Protect your skin with sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 index;
- Wear a hat and covering clothing;
- Choose shaded areas for moments of relaxation: terrace, park, swimming …
- Drink at least 2 liters of water a day;
- Apply an after-sun product or moisturizer every day after showering to promote good skin healing.
