Health Tips

Scared to move out in the sun because of your skin’s sensitivity towards sun? A few precautions can save the day for you.

Sunburn is basically a skin condition due to over-exposure of UV rays of sun. Sunburn can be a source of premature aging or even skin cancer.

There are three types of sunburns namely first degree burn, second degree burn, and third degree burn. First degree burn consists of redness and pain, second degree burn constitutes redness, pain and water bubbles, and third degree burn has all the previously mentioned symptoms along with white patches of skin.

It is advisable that you should always apply a sunscreen with a high SPF level before you step out of your home. A high SPF level works as an effective layer of protection against the harmful UV rays for a longer time.

Intake of either aspirin or ibuprofen, as soon as sunburn is noticed, can ease inflammation and control pain. Pain of the sunburn skin can be controlled even with cool soaks for about 20 minutes. Avoid application of heavy ointments including oil based products, as they block the pores and may aggravate skin irritation, causing infection. Abstain from excess of sun exposure until healing is complete. Lavender and Aloe Vera gel act as effective aromatherapy agents to treat sunburn. Home remedies such as use of chamomile, cool showers can also prove beneficial to treat mild sunburn. Fluid replenishment by an isotonic drink is recommended as sunburn can cause dehydration.

Topical treatment may be advised by your doctor depending upon the intensity of the sunburn. Oral steroid therapy like cortisone medication may also be given in case you are coping with a severe case of sunburn.

Sunburn may cause mild fever, severe blistering, severe pain, and headache. If you experience sunburn for an extended period, seek immediate medical assistance.

This information should not be substituted for doctor’s prescription.