Sunburns can happen in the blink of an eye, and once they do, your skin can feel hot, painful, and irritated. If you find yourself with a sunburn, don’t worry! There are several ways to help soothe and heal your skin. Here are four simple steps you can follow to provide relief and start the recovery process right away.
1. Take a Cool Shower
The first thing you should do when you realize you’ve gotten a sunburn is to take a cool shower.
Avoid hot water, as it can further irritate your skin and make the burn worse. Instead, use lukewarm or cool water to gently cleanse your skin. This will help reduce the heat and discomfort of the sunburn.
2. Don’t Dry Out Your Skin – Moisturize While Damp
Here’s a key tip for soothing sunburned skin: Don’t completely dry out your skin after the shower. While your skin is still damp, apply a moisturizer to lock in moisture and prevent further dryness. Afterward, apply aloe vera gel—this will provide extra cooling relief and help soothe the irritation. Aloe vera is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent option for sunburn relief.
Repeat this process as needed throughout the day whenever you feel discomfort. Your skin will thank you for the extra hydration and care.
3. Take Ibuprofen for Swelling and Pain Relief
Sunburns can cause swelling and pain, but ibuprofen can help. This over-the-counter pain reliever not only helps with pain but also reduces inflammation, making it an effective tool in easing sunburn symptoms. Just make sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
When you get a sunburn, your body is losing moisture, so it’s important to hydrate. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help replenish lost fluids and support the healing process. Staying hydrated will also help your skin recover more quickly.
Sunburns are no fun, but with these four steps—cool showers, moisturizing while damp, ibuprofen for relief, and staying hydrated—you can help soothe your skin and speed up the healing process. And of course, the best way to avoid sunburns is to practice safe sun habits, like wearing sunscreen and seeking shade when the sun is strongest.
If you find that your sunburn is severe or accompanied by blisters, excessive pain, or fever, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare
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