Today, we are going to focus on a somewhat… painful subject! And yes, you spent the day at the beach, hiking, and you didn't take all the necessary precautions? In the evening, in the shower… Surprise! Does the pain come? Hmm, it's probably a sunburn...
In this article, we will focus on sunburn, and the different methods to relieve it.
What are the different types of sunburn?
First of all, a sunburn can be defined as a heat burn; however, it is not due to direct contact (barbecue-type hot source, etc.) but to indirect solar radiation.
It follows that the burn is less intense and shallower than a heat burn.
A sunburn can cause different types of burns.
First degree burns
Causing redness of the skin, without blistering, and which generally occurs between 6 and 24 hours after exposure. They are often linked to vasodilation of the superficial cutaneous vessels. Generally, this type of burn disappears within a week without leaving any pigmentation or scarring. On the other hand, if it is a slightly more important sunburn, it will be at the origin of desquamation; that is, the skin will peel.
Superficial second degree burns
Causing the appearance of blisters with a red area, filled with a transparent liquid, immediately after exposure. This type of burn will heal spontaneously in two weeks, without sequelae, but may leave some dark traces, which are slow to disappear.
Deep second degree burns
Severe burns that cause blisters this time surrounded by white since the vessels have been affected and may leave scars.
What to do after a sunburn?
There are different actions to take in case of sunburn. However, it is important to remember that in the event of an extensive second-degree burn (therefore with blisters), it will be essential to consult your doctor.
The first thing to do is to immediately stop exposure to the sun (and if this is not possible, cover up).
Cool the burned area with tap water (between 15 and 25°C) for about fifteen minutes, until the pain disappears. The cold will relieve pain and reduce local inflammation, ideal for sunburn!
Remember to rehydrate yourself internally and externally ! Indeed, the sunburn caused an evaporation of the water on the surface of your skin.Externally , aqueous formulas will be ideal, for example, a water-based body milk or a linen gel! To be applied without moderation; as soon as the skin has finished absorbing it well, do not hesitate to put on a layer. Be careful though, in this case, avoid putting an oil on it thinking that it can hydrate the skin since it will have a harmful effect: it will cause an impermeable layer preventing the accumulated heat from dissipating through the pores.
For first degree burns, do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist who will recommend a sedative cream to apply locally. For superficial second degree burns, the skin should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and a dermal antiseptic to avoid any risk of infection. Above all, do not pierce the blisters !
Grandma's tips!
There are also grandmother's remedies to relieve sunburn:
- A thick layer of Greek yogurt : indeed, the lactic acid contained within it; has anti-inflammatory properties and can therefore soothe sunburn.
- Aloe Vera gel orgel of linen.
- A grated potato with lemon juice, all mixed with a tablespoon of olive oil . The potato will absorb the fire linked to the sunburn and the honey/lemon mixture will reduce the pain.
- Cut a cucumber into thin slices and place them on the sunburn, this will reduce the burning sensation by its cool effect!
There you go, you have all the keys in hand to reduce your sunburn. However, we can never remind you enough, the most important thing is to protect yourself well beforehand! Prevention remains the key to having a peaceful summer.