Spending too much time in the sun can lead to sun-damaged skin, which can cause pain, discomfort, and lasting damage.

Whether you’ve ended up with a sunburn or just a little bit of redness, it’s important to take action to help repair your skin and protect it from further damage. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what causes sunburn and sun-damaged skin, how to soothe and heal your skin after sun exposure, and how to protect your skin in the future.

What Causes Sunburn?

Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This radiation causes damage to the skin cells, leading to redness, pain, and irritation.

The severity of sunburn depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of time spent in the sun, the time of day when the exposure occurred, and the skin tone of the individual.

It’s important to note that even a small amount of sun exposure can lead to damage, so it’s crucial to protect your skin every time you go outside, especially during peak UV hours.

Soothe Sun-Damaged Skin

If you’ve spent too much time in the sun and are experiencing pain, redness, or discomfort, there are several things you can do to soothe your skin and help it heal more quickly. Here are a few tips:.

Cool Down

If your skin is feeling hot and painful, try cooling it down with a cool compress or a cold shower. This can help reduce inflammation and provide some relief.

Hydrate

Drink plenty of water to help rehydrate your body and boost the healing process. Dehydration can worsen sunburn symptoms, so it’s essential to stay properly hydrated.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has long been used to soothe sun-damaged skin. Apply aloe vera gel or lotion to the affected area to help reduce inflammation, soothe pain, and promote healing.

Cold Milk

Cold milk can be another effective way to soothe sunburned skin. Use a clean cloth to gently apply cool milk to the affected area, taking care not to rub too hard. The lactic acid in milk can help soothe sunburn and reduce inflammation.

Heal Sun-Damaged Skin

While it’s important to soothe your sun-damaged skin, it’s also crucial to take steps to help it heal properly. Here are a few tips to promote healing:.

Moisturize

Using a moisturizer can help keep your skin hydrated and promote healing. Look for a product that contains ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides, which can help soothe and repair damaged skin.

Avoid Irritation

Avoid using harsh soaps, lotions, or exfoliants on sunburned skin, as these can further irritate the skin and delay healing. Stick to gentle cleansers and moisturizers, and avoid picking at any peeling or flaking skin.

Take OTC Pain Relievers

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Protect Your Skin

The best way to deal with sun-damaged skin is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips to protect your skin from further damage:.

Stay in the Shade

When possible, stay in the shade during peak UV hours (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM). This can help reduce your risk of sunburn and other types of sun damage.

Wear Protective Clothing

Cover up with long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats to protect your skin from UV rays. Choose clothing made from lightweight, breathable fabrics to keep you cool and comfortable.

Use Sunscreen

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every time you go outside. Be sure to apply enough to cover all exposed skin and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Conclusion

If you’ve spent too much time in the sun and are experiencing sun-damaged skin, it’s important to take action to soothe and heal your skin and protect it from further damage.

Use the tips and strategies outlined in this guide to help soothe your sunburned skin, promote healing, and prevent future damage.