Although the sun is essential for health, as we already know, unprotected exposure can have serious consequences. The ultraviolet (UV) rays They can deeply damage the skin, accelerating aging, causing spots and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions to enjoy the sun without compromising the health of your skin. With the arrival of summer and its high temperatures, we tell you how to enjoy the sun safely and how to treat sunburn with natural remedies.
To avoid burns, it is crucial limit time in the sun to 2 or 3 hours and apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside. If you are going to participate in water activities, choose a waterproof sunscreen, as the sun intensifies in water. Don’t forget that even on cloudy days, 85% of the sun’s rays are still effective.
Staying hydrated before, during and after being in the sun is essential to combat its effects. Avoid sun exposure between 12 and 4 p.m. and protect your eyes with sunglasses and your head with a cap or hat. “If you suffer a sunburn, it is important to act quickly to reduce discomfort. The ideal is to consult a health professional, but in the meantime, you can use soothing gels and refresh the skin with cold showers several times a day. It is also beneficial to apply moisturizing creams and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration,” say Nara Seguros, experts in health, life and savings insurance.
Avoid touching or breaking the blistersas they help in the healing process. Cleanse skin gently with soap and water and protect sunburned skin while it recovers. If your eyes are affected, a clean, cold towel may provide relief.
Home remedies that you probably didn’t know about
If you cannot access medical care or specific products, natural remedies can offer relief and reduce inflammation and redness. For example, placing watermelon rind with pulp on the skin for 15 minutes can provide hydration and relief. Melon pulp, applied with gauze for 10 minutes, can also help reduce inflammation. In addition, aloe vera gel, due to its moisturizing and repairing properties, is excellent for calming and healing the skin.
- The watermelon Not only is it refreshing, it also offers benefits for sunburned skin. Its high water content and vitamins A, C and B6 make it an excellent option to soothe and rehydrate the skin. Cut a slice of watermelon into pieces and place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to cool it. Then, apply it on the burned face for 10 to 15 minutes. The pulp of watermelon will help reduce inflammation and relieve burning sensations.
- He melon It is another effective natural remedy, thanks to its high water content and antioxidant properties. Its soft texture makes it ideal for applying to delicate facial skin. Mash a portion of melon and place it on a clean gauze or cloth. Apply the mixture to the burned skin and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Melon will help reduce redness and provide a feeling of freshness.
- He natural yogurt It has refreshing and repairing properties that can be very beneficial for burned skin. Its probiotic and lactic acid content helps soothe the skin and restore its natural balance. Apply a layer of natural yogurt to the affected skin and leave it on for 15 minutes. Then, rinse with warm water. Yogurt not only relieves pain, but also provides deep hydration that is crucial for skin recovery.
- The chamomile It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to soothe the skin. Prepare a chamomile infusion and let it cool completely. Then, soak a clean cloth in the infusion and place it on the affected area. Keep the cloth in place for 10 to 15 minutes. Chamomile not only relieves pain, but also helps reduce redness and promote skin healing.
- He cucumber It is another excellent ally to treat sunburn. Its high water content and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and inflammation. Cut a cucumber into thin slices and place them on your face. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes for immediate relief. You can also crush the cucumber and apply it in the form of a paste for greater effectiveness.
- He aloe vera gel It is known for its calming and restorative properties. This succulent plant contains antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that help reduce inflammation and accelerate the healing of damaged skin. To use it, cut an aloe vera leaf, extract the gel and apply it directly to the affected skin. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse with cold water. In addition to relieving pain, aloe vera helps keep the skin hydrated, essential for its recovery.