Natural ways to avoid sun burn

Sunburn can virtually affect any person at any time of the year and is not necessarily confined as a summertime beach warning. Sunburn can cause far more intense problems than just superficial pain or inflammation. Over a period of time, frequent exposure to the sun’s rays can result in premature ageing of the skin and may even lead to deadly skin tumors. It is important to follow simple steps in order to protect yourself from sunburn and keep your skin healthy and glowing.

sunscreen is a must at all times and is one of the most important steps in protecting yourself from sunburn. It is extremely vital in preventing the dangerous long-term effects of the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Sunscreen agents are available in a wide variety of creams and lotions and come in a range of sun protection factors. It is believed that the higher the sun protection factor of a sunscreen agent the greater is the protection from the sunscreen. Remember to apply sunscreen even though it is cloudy as the ultraviolet rays of the sun can affect the skin even on cloudy days. Remember not to let your guard down even on days when the sun is not shining brightly. Dress accordingly if you are planning to stay out doors for a given length of time as it is important in ensuring that sun exposure does not affect the skin. Even though sunscreen is effective in avoiding sunburn, clothing plays an equally significant role in preventing sunburn and blocking the sun rays from affecting the skin. Wearing a wide brimmed hat, a visor, carrying an umbrella or wearing sunglasses are some important steps in ensuring that facial skin is spared from the harmful effects of the sun rays. Stay away from tanning salons as they are known to have dangerous effects on the skin. Although tanning booths or the tanning industry claims that artificial tanning is safer and a healthier option compared to natural light, scientists are of the opinion that the controlled ultraviolet rays in tanning salons can be as dangerous as the ultraviolet rays of the sun.

It is important to moisturize the skin in order to prevent premature ageing and long-term damage from the sun rays. Moisturizing a sunburn is extremely useful in healing the sunburn rapidly, although it may not make the sunburn go away instantly. As far as possible, stay out of the sun between 11 PM and 3 PM. This is the time when the sun rays are at its strongest and can cause great damage on an individual's skin. If you must be outdoors during that time of the day, carry an umbrella or sun protective headgear and drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic fluids to prevent dehydration.

answered by G M

Alternative Treatment and Tips to avoid Sun Burn

Repeated sunburns prove deteriorating for the skin, as the skin becomes red and tender. Sunburn risks are greater in dark individuals also. Topical application of sunscreen on the exposed areas of the skin is an effective method of treatment. Pain associated with sunburn is greatest after 6 hours of exposure. Protecting the scalp, especially while swimming, is helpful.

Water proof sunscreens are available for swimmers. Application half an hour prior to exposure is recommended. Swimming before 10 in the morning and 4 in the evening prevents from maximum damage. Sunburns, during a walk or jog is prevented by wearing a sun block under the dress. Running or walking between 10 am and 4 pm is not allowed. Cloth dyes providing a high sun protection factor are available. Washing the clothes in this dye is done once a month. A wide brimmed hat is an effective way to prevent the sun from hitting your head and face.

Wrinkles, blackheads, broken skin and other forms of injury are common symptoms of excessive exposure to sun. Reapplying sunscreen, every 2-3 hours is considered, in case of severe outdoor working. Sunglasses are one of the most useful accessories.

answered by Dr C