A SKINCARE expert has shared their tips for relieving a sunburn.
A one-ingredient soak can take the stinging burn and pain of your skin away.
Angela Rosoff, a beauty expert at Luvly, shared the DIY remedies.
She explained that immediate action goes a long way in the healing process.
“Should you spend a little too long in the sun, head inside and take a cold shower to wash away any skin irritants such as chlorine or salt water,” she said.
“Then fill your bath with eight to ten black tea bags — or a cup of oats— and wait for the water to turn dark amber.
“With the water full of natural compounds known for reducing inflammation, a quick soak will make your skin feel better in no time. If that doesn’t work? Try green tea, matcha powder, or rice water.”
Another thing that speeds up the healing process, she added, is keeping the skin moisturized.
“While your skin is still damp, apply a moisturizer containing aloe vera directly to the burn, allow it to soak in, then seal it in with a layer of fast-absorbing jojoba oil,” Rosoff advised.
“Packed full of water and anti-inflammatory compounds, aloe vera is a powerful remedy against the aches and pains of sunburn. Keep a healthy stock in the fridge during the summer months, and reach for it whenever your skin gets hot, red, or dry.
“For the intimate areas that can’t be slathered in cream, such as your eyes or lips, don’t underestimate the soothing abilities of the humble cucumber slice.”
Other steps sunburn victims can take to alleviate their pain are to take pain medication, such as Ibuprofen, and to stay hydrated.
“Sunburn often coincides with symptoms such as a dry mouth, fatigue, or lightheadedness,” she said.
“These are sure signs of dehydration, caused by moisture being drawn out of your body to treat the burns on your skin’s surface.
“A supply of ice-cold water and the occasional sports drink will help to rehydrate your body and replenish your electrolytes, easing your symptoms and speeding up your recovery.”
Body temperature maintenance is also critical in the few weeks to come, especially in hot and humid weather.
“If you have access to air conditioning, switch it to its coldest setting and point it directly at the burned area for extra relief,” Rosoff advised.
“If it’s too hot inside, you might be tempted to sit out in the open air. Don’t. Even if you’re in the shade, the slightest bit of sun exposure will set your recovery back.”
Rosoff warned those in pain to avoid popping their inevitable blisters, which will only worsen things.
“Your skin is bound to blister and peel. It’s your body’s way to keep the healthy skin underneath hydrated while it rids itself of the damaged cells,” she explained.
“It’s essentially your own natural healing system — so, as uncomfortable as it is, you need to let your body get on with the job.
“Popping the blisters will only make the recovery more painful and expose your body to all sorts of harmful bacteria.”
