The UV rays from the sun can cause a radiation burn that affects living tissue. When you get a sunburn from overexposure to the sun’s rays, the skin’s DNA is damaged which causes type 1 cell-death. The damaged areas have to be replaced but the old skin has to be peeled away first. That doesn’t mean, however, that there aren’t things you can do to help alleviate the problem.
It’s important to remember that it can take less than 15 minutes for the skin to burn when exposed to the sun. However, you won’t turn red until 30 minutes to 6 hours after a burn. Damage to the skin can continue for up to 3 days and the skin usually peels between 3-8 days later. Here are eight ways you can made your own best treatment for sunburn to prevent peeling.
First of All, Be Prepared
The best way to counter the effects of exposure to the sun is to be aware of the time you’re spending there and take preventative measures. Clothing, especially hats, are the preferred method to protect the skin even when at the beach. A bathing suit cover-up is also a great investment. When combined with sunscreen that has a high UV protector and limited direct exposure, moderate tanning without burning can be achieved.
1. Mother Nature’s Remedy
Another best treatment for sunburn to prevent peeling is to moisturize with aloe vera or soy immediately upon coming indoors. Natural aloe vera leaves come from a cactus extract that has been proven to reduce inflammation, fight pain, aid healing and prevent infection. Open the leaves to remove the gel and store it in a lotion or gel bottle for use when needed. Although not as effective, another option is to use a hydrating moisturizer that contains soy.
2. Directly From the Earth
It’s important when treating a sunburn that you alleviate the pain and reduce swelling as that will exacerbate the problem. Potatoes are a great option since they contain enzymes that also reduce redness. Even the peels promote healing since they have many nutrients the skin needs when in a recovery mode. Although you can apply slices of potatoes directly to the burn, it’s much more convenient to create a paste. After washing two potatoes, just grind them up or grate them peels and all. Apply the juice generated during the process with cotton balls or gauze bandages. You’ll feel the results almost immediately.
3. Here’s One From Folk Lore
Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries to cure everything from strep throat to leg cramps. Its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and pain reducing properties help make it another best treatment for sunburn to prevent peeling. Simply fill a spray bottle with apple cider vinegar and apply it to all sunburned areas. If you feel any stinging or if you find the odor too strong just dilute it with water. You should allow the solution, whether full-strength or diluted, to dry naturally and don’t wash it off or towel dry.
4. Create Your Own Remedy
You may find that the best treatment for sunburn to prevent peeling is a concoction of your own making consisting of ingredients straight out of your kitchen. For example, 1 tablespoon of witch hazel, 2 tablespoons of water, 1 teaspoon of aloe vera scraped out of the plant leaf, 3 teaspoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of peppermint oil and the juice from 2 cups of fresh mint leaves are a perfect combination.
There are many other combinations you can also come up with. Just check their properties first before trying it. They will create a cream that will hydrate the skin, relieve sunburn pain and replace depleted nutrients in the skin when needed.
5. Tea Is More Than Just a Drink
Although we often think of a nice, relaxing moment when we drink tea, it is also classified as a best treatment for sunburn to prevent peeling. Just steep six bags of Earl Grey tea in water, dump it into a bowl and then allow it to cool to room temperature. Soak a clean towel in the bowl, wring it out and apply it directly to the skin. Leave it on for 1/2 hour but don’t wash it off after removing the towels.
By the next morning you’ll notice reduced redness, less pain and a heightened tan. That doesn’t mean that you can’t use other types of tea such as Green Tea, it’s just been found that Earl Grey works best.
6. Cool Down Inside and Out
The skin is hot to the touch after a burn. To minimize the damage it’s important to cool it down inside and out. Bathing in cold water and colloidal oatmeal for 20 minutes then rinsing in cool water is a good way to begin. The oatmeal will help promote healing, reduce long-term damage and prevent scarring. You also need to cool the skin from the inside by drinking lots of cold water. Healthy skin starts with hydration because water fuels the skin’s restorative system repairing damage and reviving itself.
7. Trust Science
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation while decreasing the possibility of peeling. Another alternative is to purchase a hydrating moisturizer that is especially designed to prevent peeling after acquiring a sunburn. Anti-inflammatory drugs along with cold showers and extra water are highly effective. Additionally, those suffering from a sunburn are encouraged not to scratch since it can encourage the peeling process to begin. If you get itchy just apply ice wrapped in a soft cloth to the area.
Summing Up
The sun is such a wonderful thing. It contains Vitamin D which is essential to a healthy body and mind. Unfortunately, as many people have learned, too much of a good thing can be bad. Fortunately, finding the best treatment for sunburn to prevent peeling has never been easier.
Image Source: DepositPhotos
