But even the most diligent applier-and-re-applier of SPF has probably missed a spot at some point.
And thats when you need a quick fix, because sunburnsreally hurt.
But first, what exactly is a sunburn and why do we get them?
Stocksy
What Is a Sunburn?
Sunburn is an inflammatory reaction of the skins outer layers by UV rays.
It is characterized by redness, skin peeling, swelling, and blisters.
While sunburn can heal, some cells may have mutations that cannot be reversed and could turn cancerous.
Melanin is a skin pigment that protects the skin from damage sparked by the sun.
It works by darkening your unprotected sun-exposed skin.
The sun produces ultraviolet radiation that reaches the skin and damages skin cells.
Cool the Skin
Youll want to get some cooling relief to your burn ASAP.
But confirm you dont apply ice, or an ice pack directly to the skin.
Take a Milk or Oatmeal Bath
Draw yourself one of these sunburn-soothing soaks.
The cherry on top: cool colloidal oatmeal baths also help moisturize your skin and bolster skin repair.
Burned and no oatmeal in sight?
Try Hirschs equal parts milk and cool-water bath.
You dont need to soak for hours, she says.
The milk proteins and naturally-occurring lactic acid are very soothing, she explains.
So, make it a point to take the first dose right away.
As soon as you realize youre burned, its time to up your water intake.
Hirsch notes that there are other ways to up your hydration ASAP too.
Hydrate Externally as Well
After showering, use a gentle moisturizer to help lock in hydration.
If youre lucky enough to have access to an actual aloe plant, thats even better!
Mix Hydocortisone + Aquaphor
New York City-based board-certified dermatologist,Dr.
(Note: this is only for adult skin.)
Look for Products With Peptides
Youve probably seen peptides mentioned in high-tech anti-aging skincare products.
Turns out they have wound healing properties too.
“We know they also can permeate into the dermis and help boost collagen synthesis.”
We also like M-61s ultralight Hydraboost Collagen+Peptide Water Cream (which is a bit less of a splurge).
Don’t Pick or Peel
Let your skinbeand try not to pick while it heals.
Because popping a blister increases the chances of getting it infected.
Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours especially after swimming or sweating!
