How to quickly cure a sunburn. What to do if sunburned: sunburn treatment. How to reduce pain and discomfort

Hello dear readers. After a long winter, we are all happy for warm days and spring sun. I want to bask under its rays for a long time. But this is dangerous, unprotected skin will definitely burn. With a skin burn, after a long stay in the sun, everyone is familiar. As many people think, such stress for the body is not at all harmless. But, how to anoint a sunburn, if such a situation occurs. What is the best remedy for sunburn? This topic is now more relevant than ever, believe me, you will learn a lot of interesting things.

What to do if the skin is sunburnt

First of all, you should know that sunburn is divided into four degrees, which depend on the damage to the skin. In case of slight reddening, no sun will bring danger to the body. After a few days, a tan will appear, and the redness will subside.

A second-degree burn occurs after prolonged exposure to the sun or in violation of the rules of tanning. Blisters appear on the skin, the head starts to hurt.

The third type has the following consequences:

• blisters with liquid (burnt skin does not just turn red, water bubbles appear on it that cannot be pierced, infection may develop);
• fever, fever;
• headache;
• pain all over the body.

When more than 60 percent of the skin is burned in the sun, the functioning of the kidneys and heart is disrupted, dehydration of the body appears. The fourth degree can be so severe that it can be fatal.

It is important to know what symptoms sunburn causes

1. Redness of the skin. With a long stay in nature, the shoulders, nose, and arms are most susceptible to this.
2. Pain when touching the body.
3. Dry skin and fever.
4. General weakness and dehydration.

Children, with a long stay in the sun, become lethargic or, conversely, too excitable.

Do not forget about the elementary rules: wear a hat, drink plenty of water, use a protective cream and preferably wear a T-shirt that covers your shoulders.

The main rule of tanning is not to be in the sun from 12 noon to 4 pm. During such a period, the sun is most active, the skin can be seriously affected.

If, nevertheless, it turned out that it was not possible to protect yourself from exposure to the rays during this period, and burn symptoms appeared, then you should immediately choose a shaded area, take an ibuprofen tablet and drink as much water as the body allows. This will prevent dehydration from appearing.

First aid for sunburn

The very first sign is redness of the skin of the face, do not expect more serious symptoms (pain when touched or blisters).

If it is present, you should hide in the shade and adequately assess the condition of the skin. In the case when the face is burned, you should not go out into the open sun.

If the general condition of the body is not affected, first aid should be given to damaged skin.

First aid for burns

1. Moisten with cool water a clean cloth or gauze, previously folded in several layers, apply to places that have been exposed to the sun. Be sure to cover your forehead in this way. After heating the fabric, re-moisten with water and put back in place. Hold for at least 20 minutes to cool the skin.
2. When most of the body or the entire back is burned, it is considered more effective to wrap yourself in a wet sheet. This kind of lotion will not only reduce the heat, but also prevent the skin from drying out.
3. A cool shower without the use of gels and washcloths is effective after exposure to the sun. Water will help reduce the burning sensation on the skin.
4. Plentiful drinking of water. You need to drink water without any additives, the more the better. The main rule is not to add ice, it should be a little cool.
5. In the presence of pain: headaches or throughout the body, take a painkiller tablet. Best of all, ibuprofen, it will not only relieve discomfort, but also relieve inflammation on the skin. You can use analgin, baralgin, aspirin, but there will be no proper effect from taking paracetamol.

With mild sunburn, such measures will be quite enough, but if the condition worsens, then you need to call an ambulance.

Do not ignore:

• severe headache;
• nausea or vomiting;
• dizziness;
• fever
• chills;
• weakness.

It is worth remembering that the next day, even if all the symptoms of overheating have passed, the redness on the skin has subsided, you should still not go out in the sun. For a comfortable state while the skin is recovering, you will have to wear loose clothing made from natural fabrics that will not squeeze the body.

Severe sunburn of the face or neck can be very serious. In some cases, they lead to swelling in the larynx and difficulty breathing. If you feel short of breath, call an ambulance immediately.

How to smear a sunburn - folk remedies and medicines

After overheating in the sun, you can soothe the skin with the help of traditional medicine tips. Herbal and home remedies for sunburn work just as well as store-bought creams. These recommendations can be used if it is not possible to get to the pharmacy.

1. Tea (tea leaves and bags)

To relieve pain when the eyelids are burned in the sun, a good effect is achieved with the help of compresses from tea bags soaked in water at room temperature.

They must be applied to closed eyes for at least 15 minutes. If the sachets heat up quickly, you need to re-wet them and wring them out a little.

Burning from areas that are severely burned and reddened, relieves the compress well using strong tea leaves. First, it will need to be cooled, apply a cloth soaked in brewed tea to the skin for 30 minutes.

2. Potato

Raw potato juice can be used at home to help after prolonged exposure to the sun. Apply it directly to the affected skin or make a compress.

To do this, you need to grate it on a fine grater, wrap the resulting slurry in three layers of gauze. Apply to the skin for 15 minutes.

If the face is burned, a mask of grated raw potatoes, combined with flour to a pasty state, is applied to it. This recipe will soothe the skin and reduce redness.

To reduce pain and eliminate itching, potato starch is applied to the burnt places. It can be used as a lotion, for this you need to add water.

Potatoes with sour cream will help heal a sunburn. Before applying to the skin, it will need to be boiled and mashed, add sour cream. Gently apply the resulting mass on damaged skin, hold for 30 minutes. Wash off with warm water without using soap. This recipe is suitable for the face, reduce the time to 15 minutes.

3. Dairy products

One of the most famous folk ways to soothe sunburned skin is dairy products: sour cream, cottage cheese, yogurt or kefir.

Apply any of them to the affected areas several times a day. These products have a positive effect only on the skin on which blisters have not appeared.

Pain relieves cottage cheese, applied to places where there is redness after a long stay in the sun. To cool the skin and make the recipe easier to use, place it on a thin cloth or towel.

Apply this kind of compress to the right places, hold until a comfortable state occurs. Cottage cheese, if necessary, is easily replaced with thick sour cream or natural yogurt.

4. Herbal decoctions

With intolerance to dairy products applied to the skin or their absence, you can use herbal decoctions. Compresses from them help soothe sun-damaged skin, eliminate pain.

Burning with small burns and redness is well removed by wet dressings soaked in a decoction of celandine, string, chamomile or oak bark.

Cooking is done according to the instructions that are printed on the box with the selected plant. Another plus of this recipe is that the broth can be prepared several times, stored in the refrigerator in a glass container with a tight lid.

Before use, warm the cold decoction to room temperature and moisten a clean cloth or gauze.

It is necessary to apply such a remedy on the skin for 15 minutes. After each application of the herbal compress, apply a moisturizer to the skin. During the day, carry out three to four procedures. The duration depends on the condition of the skin, stop only after the disappearance of redness and pain when touched.

The best remedy for sunburn

At the moment, many products have already been developed that can soothe the skin after exposure to sunlight. Preparations of this spectrum are distinguished by unique components that are suitable for different skin types. For the correct selection of the remedy, which will be the best for a particular person, it is worth having an idea of ​​what they are.

1. Panthenol

It is creams and sprays that contain panthenol that are the most common when getting a sunburn. If you are still wondering how to smear a sunburn, use Panthenol.

The product is based on panthenolic acid, which soothes the skin, promotes its regeneration, relieves pain.

Preparations based on it are available not only in pharmacies, but are also sold in all supermarkets. Given the cost, the cream is affordable for everyone, it can be applied to children's skin. The components are not toxic, the effect is achieved quickly enough.

The cream has a cooling effect on sun-damaged skin. Thanks to the combination of the antiseptic chlorhexidiine and the active substance called dexpanthenol, the burnt skin is quickly restored.

The treated burns heal faster, complications do not develop, the infection will not be able to penetrate the damaged areas due to the presence of an antiseptic in the cream.

Update: October 2018

Almost everyone has experienced sunburn. It costs a little to lie in the sun or just get under the sun's rays at the peak of their activity - and now the skin begins to "burn" and acquires a typical reddish tint (see).

If you are badly burned in the sun, the first symptoms begin to bother you after half an hour, and in a day a complete clinical picture develops, including:

• focal or general reddening of the skin, the skin is hot and dry to the touch
• swelling, soreness and hypersensitivity of the skin
• blisters on the skin of different diameters
• hyperthermia
• fever, chills
• skin infection (secondary infection)
• headache
• up to shock

For children, especially small ones, a change in behavior is characteristic - weakness and drowsiness or increased excitability. If a person has a sunburn, treatment should begin as soon as possible.

Degrees of sunburn

There are 4 degrees of sunburn:

1. Redness of the skin without blisters.
2. Reddening of the skin with papules, blisters and general symptoms - headache, hyperthermia, fever.
3. Violation of the structure of the entire dermis with damage to 60% of the skin.
4. Complete dehydration with inhibition of kidney and heart function up to death.

What not to do if burned

Treatment of sunburn in the vast majority of cases is carried out at home and independently. If the injured person acts correctly, then the unpleasant symptoms will soon remain only a memory, but inept actions can significantly complicate the situation when one cannot do without the help of doctors.

1. A common mistake is to lubricate damaged skin with ice cubes. Temporary relief will turn into a sad picture of the death of the epithelium and a long recovery period, possibly with cosmetic defects in the future.
2. If the skin is burned in the sun, you can not wash the damaged areas using alkaline soap, which destroys the protective skin layer, and also rub the skin with a washcloth or clean it with scrubs, since any maceration enhances the inflammatory reaction.
3. With a sunburn, treatment should not be carried out by applying alcohol-containing products to damaged skin, because. alcohol causes additional dehydration.
4. Do not treat burns in the acute period with Vaseline-based products, because. such products close the pores and do not allow the skin to breathe. It is also not advisable to apply mutton, pork fat, etc. in the acute period.
5. In no case should blisters and papules be pierced, because. this is a direct route to skin infection.
6. During the entire recovery period, you should not sunbathe or be in direct sunlight with unprotected skin (if necessary, only in closed clothes).
7. You should not drink alcoholic beverages, strong coffee and teas, as this aggravates the state of dehydration.

First aid for sunburn

The first measures that save the skin and the body should be immediately started with any degree of burn, especially since the degree of skin damage cannot be initially determined. The general first aid plan is as follows:

• If your face or other part of your body is burned in the sun, you should immediately take cover from direct sunlight. Ideally, if it is a cool room, but in the absence of such, the shade of trees or a canopy is also suitable.
• Assess your condition appropriately. If you feel chills, severe headache and dizziness, nausea and weakness, you should call an ambulance, as these symptoms indicate a severe burn and possible
• If the general condition is not affected, you should actively help your skin and body cope with the damaging effects of the sun:

Gently put sterile gauze or clean pieces of cloth soaked in cool water on the damaged areas of the skin and change them as they heat up after 15-20 minutes. You can wrap yourself in a wet sheet. Actions should be gentle, without pressure and maceration. Such lotions have a double effect - they reduce pain and burning, and also moisturize the skin, preventing further destruction of its layers.

• If conditions are available, a shared cool shower can be taken.
• If the burn is local, you can use a bath with cool water and lower the damaged part of the body there by immersion.
• In parallel, it is necessary to take a sufficient amount of liquid to prevent dehydration, for example, non-carbonated mineral water or ordinary drinking water, but in no case ice cold.
• To relieve pain, you can drink an anesthetic, for example, analgin, baralgin or aspirin.

Further actions are related to therapeutic measures and are aimed at preventing infection of damaged skin and its speedy recovery. In some cases, with mild overheating, the above measures are sufficient to improve the condition. But even if in the morning there is no trace of yesterday's redness, you should not rush to the beach, because the skin is still under stress and needs protection from the sun.

You can independently cure a sunburn of the back, face and ultraviolet damage of other localization with a satisfactory general condition and burns of 1-2 degrees. In all other cases, you can not do without the help of doctors. All therapeutic measures can be divided into the following groups:

• Therapy with drugs for internal use;
• Treatment with external means (creams, ointments, sprays, etc.);
• Folk ways.

Preparations for internal use

Drug group	Action	How to apply
Vitamins, especially from the group of antioxidants (A, E, C)	Contribute to the speedy regeneration of the skin, prevent malignant degeneration of cells	Reception according to the instructions within 10-30 days.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen,)	Reduce the severity of the inflammatory reaction, relieve swelling and eliminate pain	1 tablet every 4-6 hours during the acute period
Antihistamines (Loratadine, Phencarol, Tavegil)	They reduce itching and burning, relieve swelling, and also prevent a possible allergic reaction to external therapy (see)	According to instructions

How to smear the skin - ointments, creams, sprays

Dexpanthenol Panthenol (spray for sunburn 160 rubles, cream 200 rubles), Bepanthen (340 rubles), D-Panthenol (170-250 rubles), Dexpanthenol (90 rubles) Pantoderm (170 rubles). Panthenol Vialine after sun(milk price 280 rubles), it includes, in addition to panthenol, which restores damaged skin, vitamin F (linoleic and linolenic fatty acids), softening the skin, allantoin, a wound-healing effect, and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, which has a wound-healing, anti-inflammatory and protective effect. Promotes the formation of a new skin layer and its regeneration. Application: 2-4 times a day on damaged skin until recovery. In the presence of infected areas, pre-treat with an antiseptic	Panthenol Vialine after sun
Livian aerosol Livian - combined drug - 210 rubles. The composition includes linetol, fish oil, lavender oil, sunflower oil, a-tocopherol acetate, anestezin, cyminal, a mixture of freons. It accelerates metabolic reactions, has an antiseptic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. Apply: One spray on damaged skin during the day until recovery
Elovera ointment Elovera extract and vitamin E It improves cellular metabolism, tissue trophism, activates skin regeneration and prevents the development of peroxide reactions. Contraindicated in children under 18 years of age. Aloe Barbados, included in the composition, is a biogenic stimulant that improves trophism and tissue regeneration. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, fat-soluble vitamin. Application: 2-4 times a day in a thin layer on the affected areas until recovery
Carotolin solution, extract (betacarotene) Carotolin regulates cellular metabolism and neutralizes the damaging effect of free radicals. Betacarotene protects cells from damage, has antioxidant properties, protects the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. Application: 1-2 times a day on sterile wipes, and then applied to damaged skin until recovery
Vinylin balm (polyvinyl butyl ether) Vinylin (price 50 gr 200 rubles, 100 gr 300 rubles). It has anti-inflammatory and bacteriostatic effect, accelerates the regeneration and epithelialization of wounds. It is used as an antiseptic - a disinfectant. Apply : 2-4 times a day in a thin layer directly on the affected areas or on sterile wipes until recovery
Zinc Ointment (Zinc Oxide), Desitin, Calamine Lotion Desitin (200-230 rubles), Calamine (780 rubles), zinc paste 40 rubles, ointment 30 rubles. It prevents infection of damaged skin, has a drying, slightly astringent effect, therefore it is used as a protective and anti-inflammatory agent for minor burns. Used: 2-3 times a day on damaged skin until healing
Sea buckthorn oil Sea buckthorn oil Altayvitamina (100 ml 250-350 rubles), Cosmetic sea buckthorn oil 40 rubles. It has an antibacterial effect, activates reparative processes and promotes healing. It has a tonic effect, cytoprotective, antioxidant. Apply : 2-4 times a day on sterile wipes until recovery
Olazol aerosol (combined preparation) Olazol (price 170-200 rubles) The composition includes: boric acid, benzocaine, chloramphenicol, sea buckthorn oil. It has a bacteriostatic effect, stimulates regeneration and promotes skin healing. Apply: before use, the spray can with a spray from burns should be shaken well, sprayed 1-4 times a day on damaged skin until recovery
Solcoseryl gel and ointment (biological preparation) Solcoseryl (160-200 rubles). Composition - deproteinized dialysate from the blood of dairy calves. Stimulates collagen formation, accelerates the growth of granulation tissue. Gel: 2-3 times a day on cleansed skin until tissue granulation; Ointment: 1-2 times a day for healing burns until complete healing
Psilo Balm (diphenhydramine) Psilo-balm (160-200 rubles), Reduces hyperemia, pain and itching, reduces swelling, reduces increased capillary permeability, has a local anesthetic effect, has a pleasant cooling effect. The gel base leaves no residue and protects the skin. Apply the gel: 3-4 times a day on the affected surface until the skin heals. It helps if the skin itches after sun exposure.
Actovegin ointment (biological preparation) Actovegin ointment 90-120 rubles, cream 110-140 rubles, gel 150-180 rubles). Stimulates skin regeneration and improves local blood circulation. At the beginning of use, slight pain may be felt, which then disappears. Apply: Twice a day for healing burns, duration of use 10-12 days
Flucinolone - glucocorticosteroids (hormonal ointment) Sinaflan (price 40 rubles) Flucinar gel and ointment 200 rubles. Reduces inflammatory and allergic reactions, has antipruritic effect. Since this is a hormonal drug, its use is possible only as directed by a doctor, in a short course, with the gradual withdrawal of the drug. It is used: 2-4 times a day on disinfected skin areas or on dressings for no more than 5 days.
Floceta (gel price 150-200 rubles, spray 250-300 rubles), in the composition, chamomile extract, aluminum acetotartrate. Eliminates itching and redness of the skin, has a bactericidal and wound-healing effect, cools the skin. Apply : 2-3 times a day
Eplan (price 150 rubles). The drug has a regenerating, softening, wound healing, antibacterial, analgesic, protective effect. Accelerates the healing of wounds, thermal burns, is made on the basis of polyhydroxy compounds and lanthanum salts. Application: lubricate the affected area of ​​the burn as it is absorbed and dried several times a day.
Radevit (price 320 rubles) Ingredients: ergocalciferol, retinol palmitate, α-tocopherol acetate. Improves the protective function of the skin, has an antipruritic, reparative, softening effect. Application: thin layer 2 times a day.
Fenistil gel (250 rubles), the active ingredient Dimetinden, is an antihistamine, has antipruritic, antiallergic, analgesic effects. The action of the gel occurs a few minutes after application to the skin. Apply 2-4 times a day.
Sudocrem has a complex composition: lanolin, synthetic wax, citric acid, lavender oil, liquid paraffin, benzyl cinnamate, benzyl benzoate, zinc oxide, benzyl alcohol, linalyl acetate, propylene glycol, butylhydroxyanisole. It is used in burns as a wound healing, anesthetic, emollient.

Folk remedies

folk method	Action and effect	Application
Plain wet wipes without perfume additives	Cools, protects the skin from drying out and reduces pain	At the first symptoms, wipes are applied to damaged skin and changed as they dry.
Ice or freezer food	Cool and soothe the skin, reduce pain and redness	Ice is placed at a distance of 5-10 cm from the damaged skin and held until relief occurs.
Egg white	Eliminates pain, soothes the skin, prevents drying of the skin	Apply chilled protein to damaged skin until dry, then reapply
Cool kefir, natural yogurt or curdled milk	Eliminates pain, soothes the skin	Apply to affected skin without drying out
Lavender oil (you can make your own by adding a couple of drops of lavender essential oil to any vegetable oil)	Eliminates redness, pain, prevents infection	Apply to a sterile napkin and apply to the burn for several hours
watermelon juice	Eliminates pain and itching, relieves swelling of the skin	Freshly squeezed juice is used as a lotion on damaged skin or soaked in napkins and applied to burns.
Lotions from the infusion of mint leaves (fresh or dry leaves of the plant are poured with boiling water and cooled)	Eliminate pain and itching, soothe and cool the skin, prevent infection
Gruel from grated potatoes (or carrots, pumpkins, beets)	Has an astringent effect, reduces pain and burning, eliminates itching	Apply to affected skin or apply as a compress
Lotions from the infusion of nettle flowers (a handful of flowers is poured into a glass of boiling water and cooled)	They have an antiseptic effect, promote skin regeneration	Apply to a sterile napkin and apply to the affected areas
Soda solution (1 tablespoon of soda per glass of chilled boiled water)	They have an antiseptic effect, eliminates itching and burning, reduces swelling	Lubricate the affected areas or apply in the form of compresses on sterile wipes
Lotions from fresh clover flowers (doused with boiling water and wrapped in gauze)	Eliminate pain and itching, prevent infection	Apply to affected skin until dry
Lotions from clay (clay is mixed with water to a liquid pasty state)	Pain reliever, promote skin regeneration and prevent blistering	Impregnate a clean cloth and apply to the affected areas, preventing the cloth from drying out.
Shilajit 2%	Prevents infection, promotes skin regeneration	Lubricate the damaged areas with a solution after 3 hours

Based on the foregoing, it is clear that if a sunburn has formed, what to smear is an individual choice for everyone. In any case, time will be an assistant in treatment, since not a single drug or folk method can help in a few hours.

Who shouldn't sunbathe?

• babies up to 1 year old
• To old people
• pregnant women
• people taking certain medications (antibiotics, corticosteroids, antidepressants, NSAIDs, etc.) that can cause photosensitivity (photodermatosis, see)
• persons sick), tuberculosis, cardiovascular diseases,.

Prevention

In order not to burn in the sun, it is enough to completely exclude contact with the sun's rays, but this is practically impossible and not necessary, because it is thanks to these rays that our skin is able to produce vitamin D. How not to burn in the sun and at the same time get a beautiful tan - this issue is especially relevant in summer season.

Initially, you should proceed from the capabilities of your skin, since not a single cream will save if the skin is prone to sunburn and tans very badly. Such “aristocratic” skin requires constant protection with clothing and creams, and if you have to sunbathe, then you need to do it in the shade, under the reflected rays. For people who tolerate the sun well, the advice of safe tanning is no less relevant, since it is they who most often become victims of the sun, burning imperceptibly and not feeling the symptoms of burns for a long time.

When choosing a tanning cream, the main purpose of which is to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, you should look at the protection factor, since it is he who is decisive, and not the brand of the cosmetic product. Children and people with pale skin should choose creams with a protection factor of 30-50 SPF, and only then switch to products with 15-30 SPF protection, which are recommended for tanning the general population.

The cream should have a blocking effect for ultraviolet radiation. There are also screening creams, but they are less protective and often cause allergic reactions. It is important that the cream adheres well to the skin and does not wash off at the slightest contact with water.

A bottle of drinking water not only saves you from thirst, but also prevents dehydration, so you should not forget about the drinking regimen.

The most important recommendation is moderation. Contact with the sun's rays should begin with a small time interval of 5-10 minutes and gradually increase it, avoiding hours with high solar activity (12-15 hours of the day).

May your tan be beautiful and your skin healthy!

In most cases, treatment sunburn symptomatic. This means that remedies are used that can reduce the symptoms and manifestations of the disease. Most sunburns go away on their own and without any treatment at all. However, patients are still advised to be careful about such skin lesions. There is a risk of long-term cosmetic defects, and sometimes a variety of complications.

How to treat sunburn:

• With light sunburn of a small area ( 1 - 2 palms) no treatment is required. The skin will regenerate on its own. If desired, moisturizing creams or balms with analgesic effect can be applied to reduce symptoms.
• With severe itching, severe swelling or rash, ointments with an antiallergic effect should be used. It is also worth contacting a doctor for a preventive consultation.
• For minor burns of a large area ( entire back, stomach and chest, both legs, etc.) it is best not to give a load on the body for several days. Ointments and creams with analgesic and soothing effects are also used. If swelling in the legs, nausea or vomiting, it is better to consult a doctor, although these common symptoms usually go away on their own. Sometimes such patients are prescribed painkillers in the form of tablets or injections. In the presence of chronic diseases of the kidneys, the cardiovascular system or other organs, it is imperative to consult a doctor. Even a mild sunburn of a large area can exacerbate more serious pathologies.
• Severe burns cause blisters and other visible damage to the skin ( cracks, peeling of the skin, etc.). In these cases, there is a risk of complications, cosmetic defects and infection. Such burns require more careful care. The surface should be treated with disinfectant ointments or gels until an active healing process begins. If you have difficulty in caring for such a burn, it is better to consult a doctor.
• In case of complications, medical attention is almost always required. In each individual case, the patient will be prescribed a specific course of treatment ( cosmetic - with the appearance of moles or age spots, antibiotics - with the development of infection, etc.).

First aid after sunburn

Of great importance is first aid, which is provided to the patient in the very first hours after receiving a burn. Often at this point, no external signs and symptoms have yet appeared on the skin. However, the right actions at this stage can reduce the effects of ultraviolet radiation in the future, and the wrong ones, on the contrary, increase them.

In the first hours after receiving a sunburn, it is desirable to carry out the following therapeutic measures:

• stop sun exposure to the skin it is better to take shelter indoors, and not just move into the shade or cover the burn with a cloth);
• a shower with water at room temperature or a compress on the affected area ( a very cold compress or ice should not be applied, as this will cause vasospasm, disrupt the nutrition of cells with blood and lead to more severe tissue damage);
• take a shower for 5 - 10 minutes to normalize body temperature, the compress is also kept for 10 - 15 minutes;
• use of moisturizers you can even before the appearance of redness and severe pain).

For severe burns and rapid onset of symptoms ( blisters, cracks, peeling skin) apply antiseptic creams, gels or powders to the affected area. The burn itself is covered with a sterile bandage, but do not tighten it tightly so as not to impair blood flow. All these manipulations will reduce skin damage at an early stage. Burn symptoms are still likely to appear, but they will not be as pronounced.

Which doctor should I contact for sunburn?

In the vast majority of cases, sunburn affects different areas of a person's skin, so the obvious solution is to see a dermatologist. However, in the case of minor burns ( only local pain and redness) to the doctor, in principle, you can not go at all. Such burns go away on their own within a few days, creating only mild discomfort. In case of serious burns with the appearance of general malaise or other unusual symptoms, at the first stage, you can consult a doctor of any specialization. Based on the manifestations and symptoms, he will refer the patient to the right specialist.

In general, the following doctors can treat various sunburns:

• dermatologist;
• family doctor;
• allergist ( in case of allergy to the sun in parallel with sunburn).

Separately, it should be noted damage to the eyes ( sunburn of the eyes) that occur in some patients. Only oculists or ophthalmologists are engaged in examination of such patients. Doctors of other specialties will not be able to assess the degree of damage, nor prescribe the correct treatment.

How long does a sunburn last?

The duration of skin recovery after a sunburn depends on many factors. On average, mild burns disappear within 3 to 5 days, even without any medical assistance and special care. With the development of complications or additional harmful effects, the skin after a burn can recover for more than 2 weeks. In some cases, after burns, cosmetic defects remain ( spots, moles, etc.), which do not go away for a very long time without separate treatment.

The following factors influence the healing time of a sunburn:

• degree of burn depth of tissue damage);
• burn area;
• proper care of the affected area;
• patient's age;
• the presence of complications;
• the presence of chronic health problems;
• skin type.

Is it possible to take a bath, go to the bath or sauna if you get a sunburn?

In case of sunburn, it is not recommended to go to the bath or sauna. Even a mild sunburn is damage to the top layer of the skin, which gradually flakes off. In the bath and sauna, high temperature and humidity cause the process of sweating. The sweat glands are located in the deeper layers of the skin, but their excretory ducts are damaged due to the burn. As a result, fluid begins to accumulate under the damaged skin. A more intense peeling, blistering begins, and there is a risk of infection. In addition, with burns of a large area, high temperature will simply cause pain. Thus, even with mild sunburn, it is better for patients to refrain from going to the bath or sauna for the first few days until the skin recovers.

Bath or shower with sunburn is not contraindicated. The main condition is the correct choice of water temperature. A cold or contrast shower affects vascular tone and blood circulation. In the event of a large area burn, this slows down tissue repair. Hot water will create an effect similar to a bath or sauna. Therefore, the water temperature should not be lower than room temperature and not higher than 40 - 45 degrees. In the event of a severe burn with the formation of blisters or rupture of the bath, it is not recommended to take a bath, as an infection can get into the wound with water.

How long can you not sunbathe after a sunburn?

Receiving a sunburn usually indicates that the skin is not yet ready for active and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, even after a slight burn, sunbathing is not recommended for at least a few days. A person at this time can be in the shade in the fresh air. Scattered sunlight will not cause burns and will not interfere with the process of skin regeneration. At the same time, the cells will still produce melanin, the pigment responsible for tanning. This will prepare your skin for more intense UV exposure in the future. The main criterion for re-tanning is the restoration of the skin after a burn ( the surface layer has come off, and in its place a young skin of a pinkish color has formed). To protect the damaged area at first, it is better to sunbathe in the morning and in the evening using sunscreen.

What helps if the skin peeled off after a burn?

Detachment of epithelial cells after a burn is a normal stage of tissue repair. With light sunburn, the skin does not peel off immediately, but begins to peel off on the 3rd - 4th day after the burn, when young cells are already filling the skin defect. In this case, special treatment of the burn is not required, since the body is able to independently prevent the threat of infection. It is possible to use nourishing creams or balms that stimulate the restoration of the epithelium.

In the case of severe burns, the skin can peel off already a few hours after the burn. Then, in its place, a painful wound with a fairly large area is formed.
Intercellular fluid appears on its surface ( the surface is pinkish and moist), which subsequently forms a crust. A similar defense mechanism occurs in the case of premature opening of blisters at the burn site. The main difference is that with mild burns with gradual peeling, the surface of the wound is moist, not dry. In these cases, there is a risk of infection and other complications, so you need to pay attention to the treatment of the burn surface.

When peeling the skin after a severe burn, the following remedies can be used:

• dexpanthenol and other preparations based on this substance ( bepanthen, panthenol, etc.);
• baneocin, levomekol or other local antibiotic-based remedies ( to prevent infection);
• solcoseryl and drugs similar in properties ( to accelerate the formation of the epithelium).

In most cases, it is not recommended to apply several agents with different effects to the burn surface at the same time. It is better to apply a sterile bandage to the burn itself, which will protect the delicate skin without epithelium from superficial injuries and reduce the risk of infection. Before applying some products, it is necessary to wash the surface of the burn. This is done with warm boiled water.

Does homeopathy help with sunburn?

With sunburn, homeopathic remedies rarely have a pronounced therapeutic effect. A homeopath can be contacted for advice if there are some complications or residual effects after the burn. The healing process itself usually proceeds well and without additional treatment.

Medicines for sunburn ointments, creams, gels, balms, masks, lotions, tablets, etc.)

The pharmacological industry offers a wide range of different medicines and products that can be used for sunburn. Most of them are aimed at eliminating tissue damage and the speedy restoration of the skin. As a rule, these are local remedies - ointments, gels, creams, etc. Some drugs of general action ( pills, sometimes injections) affect the body as a whole. They are used to eliminate some of the serious symptoms and consequences of sunburn.

The vast majority of drugs that are needed to treat a sunburn are available in any pharmacy and are dispensed without a doctor's prescription.
However, in the event of a severe burn or unusual symptoms, it is best to consult a specialist. In rare cases, an allergy to ointments or creams is possible, and a number of tablets and injections may be contraindicated in the presence of chronic pathologies. The following is a list of pharmacological drugs that can be used to treat sunburn in various situations.

Panthenol, bepanthen and dexpanthenol

Dexpanthenol is a chemical compound that stimulates the regeneration of the skin and mucous membranes well. Dexpanthenol itself is a chemical compound, the active ingredient in many burn medications ( including panthenol and bepanthen). The range of application of funds based on this substance is very wide. Dexpanthenol can be used to treat sunburn of any severity.

Preparations based on dexpanthenol have the following therapeutic effects:

• ensure the delivery of essential vitamins and nutrients to the skin;
• stimulate cell division and growth, which accelerates the restoration of damaged tissues;
• Helps with sunburned eyes restoration of the corneal mucosa);
• reduces the risk of complications.

Many dexpanthenol-based burn remedies have been released under various trade names. There are gels, creams, balms and even injections with this substance. The specific spectrum and method of application are indicated in the instructions for the corresponding drug. For sunburn, dexpanthenol-based products are usually applied topically ( applied to the affected area).

Celestoderm

The drug is available in the form of an ointment or cream. The main action of Celestoderm is aimed at eliminating the allergic component in the development of symptoms. The cream can help relieve itching, local swelling, reduce redness. However, in general, its use in sunburn is limited. The components of the drug can effectively relieve symptoms and alleviate the patient's condition, but slow down the recovery of the skin.

Balm "Rescuer"

Balm "Rescuer" is a common local drug that is widely used for various skin lesions. In the case of mild sunburn, the balm is excellent for relieving symptoms and speeding up tissue healing. This medicine contains mainly substances of plant origin, which reduce the inflammatory process, have an analgesic effect, and reduce swelling and itching. The balm is applied in an even layer on the burnt skin. Within 10-15 minutes, it spreads on the skin on its own and is gradually absorbed. The analgesic effect occurs within half an hour. The balm can also be used for severe sunburn, blisters, cracks or erosion on the skin.

la cree

Cream "La-cree" is one of the products specially designed for the treatment of burns. The main active ingredient here is dexpanthenol. An additional therapeutic effect is provided by plant extracts. The cream is recommended to be used in cases where the skin is burned, but has not yet peeled off. These are mild sunburns with redness or the healing stage of more severe burns ( when a layer of renewed cells has already appeared). "La cree" is not used, for example, immediately after opening the blisters.

Sunburn cream "La Cree" has the following therapeutic effects:

• skin hydration;
• antibacterial effect;
• acceleration of cell regeneration;
• removal of skin irritation;
• reduction of pain;
• reducing the risk of developing allergic reactions to sunlight.

The gel is applied 1-2 times a day. After it dries and absorbs, it is not necessary to wash the surface of the burn.

Zinc ointment

Zinc ointment can be used for mild sunburn to reduce symptoms. This remedy has an anti-inflammatory effect and prevents infection from entering the cracks and wounds that form during the healing process. The ointment is applied in a thin layer on the surface of the burn 3-5 times a day. You can also soak gauze with ointment and apply it to the surface of the burn. There are no restrictions on the use of this remedy, provided that the patient is not allergic to the components of the ointment.

Baneocin

Baneocin is a mixture of antibiotics in powder form. This drug may be used for sunburn when there is a risk of infection. For example, when opening blisters from severe sunburn, the powder is applied in a thin layer to the surface of the wound 3 times a day, and a bandage is applied on top. Baneocin is also used if the first symptoms of infection have already appeared ( there is erosion, sore, formation of an abscess is planned). Treatment is carried out for several days.

• with burns, the area of ​​​​which exceeds 1% of the skin surface ( patient's palm);
• during pregnancy and lactation;
• with chronic diseases of the liver, kidneys, heart disease;
• with individual sensitivity to antibiotics of the aminoglycoside series ( allergy risk);
• in acute and chronic diseases of the auditory and vestibular apparatus.

In the case of mild sunburn, when the skin does not peel off, there is no risk of infection, and the use of baneocin is not required.

Aevit

Aevit is a combined vitamin preparation, which is available in the form of capsules and injections. A set of vitamins in the composition of this medication helps to restore tissues with various injuries. In the case of a sunburn, this accelerates the regeneration of the skin. It is recommended to take 1 capsule 2-3 times a day for 3-5 days after the burn. Injections are usually not required. In the presence of chronic diseases ( heart, kidney, thyroid) or during pregnancy, the use of Aevit is not recommended.

Solcoseryl

Solcoseryl is a very common remedy that is used mainly for wound healing. The drug contains substances necessary to restore the skin, stabilize blood vessels, reduce the inflammatory process. It also facilitates local manifestations of an allergic reaction. For sunburn, this drug can be used in the form of a gel or ointment. The gel is applied in cases where the skin has peeled off or an opening of the blisters has occurred. After the skin begins to recover at the site of the burn ( the burn surface is dry, there is no sharp pain when touched), an ointment is applied to the wound instead of a gel. Both gel and ointment, it is recommended to apply a thin layer evenly over the entire surface of the burn. The procedure is repeated 2-3 times a day until complete healing. The drug is not recommended for use in burns in children, pregnant women and people suffering from frequent allergic reactions. There will also be a therapeutic effect in these cases, but there is a risk of side effects, so it is better to consult a specialist in advance.

Alcohol ( ethyl, formic, cologne and other liquids with a high alcohol content)

Most alcohols have an antiseptic effect ( destroy microbes), and some people rub it on burns to prevent infection. In fact, in case of sunburn, alcohol should not be used. This will not give a therapeutic or preventive effect, and in some cases can only aggravate the situation.

• alcohol and alcohol-containing substances quickly evaporate from the surface of the skin, so they do not have time to act on microbes, even if they are there;
• lubrication of the burn with alcohol increases pain ( in the absence of a therapeutic effect);
• evaporation of alcohol from the surface of the burn dries the skin, which already has almost no liquid ( regeneration slows down, the risk of exfoliation of the upper layers of the skin increases).

Thus, it is impossible to lubricate burns with alcohol, cologne or vodka.

Levomekol

Levomekol is an antibiotic that is produced in the form of an ointment for external use. For sunburn, it is used only when signs of a bacterial infection appear on the damaged skin tissue. If there is only redness on the skin after a burn, it is not worth applying Levomekol, as this will not give any therapeutic effect.

eplan

Eplan is a very effective remedy for sunburn of any severity. The ointment contains antibiotics to prevent the development of infection, as well as substances that help moisturize and regenerate the skin. Eplan is applied to the surface of the burn several times a day. The ointment is gradually absorbed and dries up. With light sunburn, when the skin does not exfoliate, the bandage can not be applied.

Miramistin

Miramistin is an antiseptic ( with antimicrobial effect), which is used as a liquid for sunburn. Usually the bottle of the drug is equipped with a special dispenser. The solution is sprayed on the surface of the burn 2-3 times a day to prevent infection. For mild sunburn without serious damage to the skin, this drug is usually not used.

Aspirin

Aspirin is rarely used for sunburn. This drug has a good anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and weak analgesic effect. It can be drunk in case of burns of a large area, when the symptoms cause great discomfort to the patient. The antipyretic effect is useful in case of fever ( mostly in children). Drinking aspirin with sunburn for a long time is not worth it. This drug does not stimulate the healing of the skin, but only reduces the symptoms of a burn. Usually it is enough to drink 1 tablet 1 - 2 days ( the first days after the burn).

Advantan

For sunburn, advantan ointment is sometimes used. This drug contains glucocorticoid hormones that effectively reduce inflammation. The disadvantage of advantan for sunburn is that the application of the ointment inhibits the process of cell regeneration. It is used in case of severe itching or swelling. For mild sunburn with moderate pain, advantan is usually not used.

Paracetamol

This drug is widely used in medical practice to reduce fever. It also has a mild analgesic effect. For sunburn, it is sometimes given to children who have a fever. With an increase to 37.5 degrees, paracetamol is not prescribed, as this is a natural reaction of the body to the inflammatory process. As a rule, with sunburn, the temperature drops by itself within 1 to 2 days as the tissues recover. The drug is available in the form of tablets, capsules, suppositories ( candles), solutions for injections.

Suprastin

Suprastin is an antiallergic agent, which is used relatively rarely in case of sunburn. The tablet can be taken if a rash appears, itching is severe, or redness spreads beyond the burn area. Suprastin will ease these symptoms. In general, this drug does not have a therapeutic effect on the burn itself.

Olazol

Olazol is available in the form of a spray can with a foamy substance. This drug is well suited for the treatment of severe sunburn with visible skin damage. It contains antiseptic substances that prevent the development of infection. Also, the drug has a weak analgesic effect. Sea buckthorn oil in the composition of the olazol promotes the speedy healing of wounds. The foam is applied several times a day in an even layer over the entire burnt surface. For a more even distribution of the foam, the can is shaken several times before use.

Fenistil

The drug is available in the form of drops for oral administration. Fenistil has a pronounced anti-allergic effect, and is not used in all cases for burns. This drug can effectively relieve itching, eliminate rashes, swelling and other associated allergy symptoms. It does not promote healing of sunburn and does not prevent infectious complications. Fenistil is best taken after prior consultation with a doctor.

Moisturizing cream

Among cosmetics, there are a large number of different creams with a moisturizing effect that can help with burns. They are usually used in case of light burns on the 2nd - 3rd day of treatment. When using these products, moisture is retained in the skin, which contributes to the restoration of cells. Such creams are not used in case of severe burns, skin cracks, infection or other complications. Also, such remedies are not used if there are signs of an allergic reaction, as this can aggravate the symptoms.

baby cream

Most baby creams from different manufacturers have a similar effect on the skin. They are rich in nutrients necessary for the skin. Also, many contain substances of natural origin that relieve irritation and eliminate dry skin. With ordinary sunburn, such creams may well be used not only by children, but also by adults.

Pain medications ( analgin, nimesil, etc.)

Preparations with a pronounced analgesic effect are rarely used for sunburn. Most often, balms or creams for local effects on the skin are enough to eliminate the pain syndrome. Analgin, nimesil and other common painkillers are prescribed in case of severe burns, when the healing process can last 1 to 2 weeks. This is necessary to ensure the patient's normal sleep and eliminate discomfort.

Other means for the prevention and treatment of burns

In addition to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics that help with sunburn, other methods can be used. There are many folk remedies, which are widely used to help with a burn if there are no effective special preparations at hand. However, these remedies must be used carefully, since not all of them are suitable for any burn.

What are folk remedies that can be used at home for sunburn?

Sunburn is a very common problem, so traditional medicine has gained a lot of experience in dealing with it.
Many plants contain components that have a soothing effect on the skin, which is an important factor. However, the use of folk remedies has certain disadvantages. Most of them are relevant for mild sunburns of a small area. With a severe burn, preference should be given to products specifically designed to restore the skin. Incorrect use of folk remedies in some cases can aggravate the symptoms and delay the healing process.

In general, the following folk remedies are common for sunburn:

• Potato juice. Young tubers are best suited for its production. They are finely chopped and crushed to collect the juice. A cotton swab or gauze is soaked in the juice, which is used to lubricate the burnt skin or apply as a compress. This relieves the unpleasant symptoms of a burn.
• Tea. Strongly brewed black or green tea can help with the pain and burning sensation of mild sunburn. The tea leaves are cooled to room temperature or a little cooler, gauze is moistened in it and a compress is put on for 15 - 20 minutes. This tool is not used for visible skin lesions ( peeling, cracks, etc.).
• Camomile tea. Dried chamomile flowers are poured with boiling water ( 1 tablespoon per glass of water) and insist for an hour. In the resulting infusion, a cotton swab is moistened and the infusion is applied to the burnt skin during the day. It soothes the skin, relieves symptoms and reduces inflammation.
• Sauerkraut. Sauerkraut is heated to room temperature and applied to sunburns of a small area for 10 to 15 minutes. It is better to carry out the procedure once immediately after the burn, while the skin has not yet become very reddened and has not begun to exfoliate.
• Cucumber juice. Juice is squeezed out of ripe young cucumbers and the burnt skin is moistened with it. This reduces itching and swelling. The tool is used mainly for mild burns.

It is not recommended to apply concentrated fats that are not intended for skin care on the skin. For example, sunflower oil applied to a burn is poorly absorbed and forms a film that prevents air from entering. As a result, the epithelium can exfoliate faster.

Is it possible to treat a sunburn with sour cream or kefir?

Regarding the treatment of sunburn with fermented milk products, there are different opinions. This is due to the fact that sour cream and kefir have a dual effect on damaged skin. First of all, it should be noted that the application of these products ( not cold but cool) reduces burning, itching and redness of the skin. On the other hand, an acidic environment does not allow tissues to recover normally. That is, the person will feel better, but in general, the burn will take longer to heal. Therefore, sour cream or kefir can be applied to the surface of the burn in the first hours, when the skin has not yet begun to peel off, for 5 to 10 minutes. After that, the remnants should be washed off with warm water and in the future do not repeat this procedure, but apply special creams and balms.

With severe burns with the formation of blisters and visible skin defects, sour cream and kefir are not applied, as this can provoke the development of an infection.

Can you water a sunburn with cold water?

Applying a cold compress or ice pack to a sunburn is a common misconception that can make symptoms worse. The logic of these actions is to neutralize the effect of high temperature with cold. In fact, cell damage in a sunburn is caused not so much by heat, but by the absorption of ultraviolet radiation. At the time of applying the cold, some of the cells had already died, and the tissues were already damaged. Pouring cold water, compresses or ice will cause severe vasospasm, and the blood will circulate worse in the “frozen” place. The only beneficial effect in this case will be the reduction of pain. However, as a result, the damage increases, and the burn will heal longer. That is why watering a sunburn with cold water is not worth it. It is better to normalize metabolic processes in damaged skin with water at room temperature, although this will not give such a pronounced analgesic effect.

Aloe

Aloe is a very common medicinal plant. For sunburn, you can use special creams or gels based on aloe extract, or simply apply incised leaves of the plant to damaged areas. This provides nutrients to the skin cells and stimulates their recovery. Aloe is only useful for light burns when there are no open wounds on the skin.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is rich in plant-derived fatty acids that are beneficial for burned skin. It is applied to the damaged area in a thin layer from the second day after the burn. You don't need to rub in the oil. Over time, it is completely absorbed and accelerates the process of tissue repair.

Jojoba oil

This oil contains a large number of useful substances that have a complex nutritional effect on the skin. It can be used for mild sunburn or during the healing phase of more severe skin lesions ( when the blisters have already gone, the crust has fallen off, and there are no open wounds). This will speed up recovery and reduce the risk of residual effects.

Egg white

Egg white is a common folk remedy for sunburn, but should be used with caution. Chilled protein is usually applied to the damaged area and allowed to dry. It relieves the main symptoms ( swelling, redness, burning sensation). But it should be remembered that egg white may contain a number of pathogenic bacteria, so it is not used in the presence of cracks, erosion, blistering. Rotten eggs should not be used to treat burns, as the risk of infection increases dramatically.

In addition, the protein can be used in the first hours after the burn once or twice. The molecular composition acts on the skin in such a way that it can draw fluid out of it, slowing down the recovery of cells. Therefore, after drying the egg white, it is better to lubricate the burn area with a moisturizer.

Essential oils

Most essential oils contain substances that are beneficial for skin cells. With burns, they are well absorbed, moisturize the tissues and stimulate the growth of new cells. It should be noted that the essential oils of many citrus plants have a phototoxic effect. They can be used to treat burns only on the second or third day, when the healing process has already begun. In addition, in the case of using essential oils, the patient should not be in the sun, as the skin becomes more sensitive and there is a risk of re-burning.

Sea buckthorn oil

Sea buckthorn oil is one of the best skin care products. It is widely used for the production of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. With burns, sea buckthorn oil accelerates the recovery of the epithelium, reduces inflammation, relieves pain, itching and other symptoms. This remedy can be used for light burns from the very first day, when redness first appeared. It is not recommended for use in the formation of blisters, cracks and other open damage.

Cacao butter

Cocoa butter contains substances that stimulate the healing of superficial wounds, which include sunburn. It is used mainly at the stage when the skin has not yet begun to peel off, and there is no severe damage. A number of pharmacological products ( balms, creams, etc.) with cocoa butter are also used in the case when the skin peels off, there are cracks or sores. But specific indications are usually mentioned in the instructions for the drug.

Badyaga

Badyaga is a drug ( powder), which is obtained from some types of sponges. It is widely used for bruises, joint problems, bruises or hemorrhages in soft tissues, but in case of burns it should not be used. Badyaga has a warming and irritating effect on tissues, stimulating blood flow. In the case of sunburn, this may increase pain and swelling, but does not stimulate the recovery of epithelial cells.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is obtained from some types of African nuts. It has a calming effect on skin cells in various diseases and injuries. In case of sunburn, oil can be applied to the skin immediately after the burn, when swelling, redness and epithelium have not yet begun to exfoliate. This will reduce symptoms and manifestations. For severe damage ( blisters, sores, etc.) the therapeutic effect will be less noticeable. It is most useful to apply shea butter regularly on the 3rd-4th day, when the healing process is already intensively underway. In this case, the risk of age spots, moles and other consequences of sunburn is reduced.

Olive oil

Olive oil is a fairly simple and reliable remedy for sunburn. It does not have such a pronounced therapeutic effect as pharmaceutical products, but it stimulates the most important processes. Firstly, the oil is well absorbed and moisturizes the skin. Secondly, its use will reduce pain and burning sensation. Thirdly, olive oil contains the nutrients necessary for the growth of new cells. The oil can be applied to reddened skin with a cotton swab or in the form of compresses. Since this product is not completely free of micro-organisms, it should not be used if the skin is rapidly flaking or cracked.

Prevention of sunburn

Symptoms and manifestations of sunburn can cause severe discomfort, and treatment can take several weeks. That is why people should be more careful about the prevention of such burns. This is most relevant in the summer, when the sun's rays fall perpendicular to the surface of the Earth, so the risk of getting burned is greatly increased.

To successfully prevent sunburn, you should remember a few simple rules:

• The appearance of a burn does not always depend on the ambient temperature. Sunburns also happen to people in the mountains, where there is snow on the ground. The main criterion in this case is the intensity of ultraviolet radiation.

• In the morning and evening hours, the sun's rays fall on the Earth at an angle. At this time, the skin tans well, but does not absorb enough ultraviolet radiation to get burned. At lunchtime, however, the risk is higher, since ultraviolet radiation hits the skin almost perpendicularly and is absorbed almost completely.
• If you are prone to sunburn, you need to use special sunscreen.
• After bathing, you need to wipe the skin dry and only then go to sunbathe. Drops of water on the body can act like a magnifying glass, and even before the person is dry, they can get sunburned. A similar danger exists if you sunbathe on air mattresses or in a boat ( the body is often splashed).
• Wearing sunglasses prevents retinal burns.
• People with various skin diseases and problems ( scars, vitiligo, moles, acne, etc.) cover problem areas while tanning or use a high-performance sunscreen to protect them.

In general, sunburns are always obtained due to one's own indiscretions. That is why before you go to the beach, it is better to think about methods for preventing burns in advance.

Sunburn. Sunburn treatment. First aid for burns. Means for the prevention and treatment of sunburn

Summer, sun, vacation, sea, beach, dacha… the list goes on, but the listed conditions are enough for a person to get a sunburn. For a whole year we sit in offices, someone spends day after day in factory floors or does household chores, and here it is, summer with sunny hot days. Lying on the beach or undressing, working in the beds is good, but do not forget that everything is fine - in moderation. We do not argue that tanning benefits the body, but if you get to the sun and lie under it for a whole day, you can cause serious damage to your health.

Sun damage to the skin can cause severe burns. There are visible rays - they are not so dangerous for the skin. Particularly dangerous are the invisible ones, which have different lengths, and the longer they are, the more damage they can cause to the papillary dermis. The skin, protecting itself from their effects, begins the production of melatonin. A person who knows the measure of sunbathing will get a beautiful tan. But one who does not know this measure, who wishes to receive a three-month dose of ultraviolet radiation in one day, will literally burn, get a sunburn.

Types of sunburn

Among the sunburns that are familiar to us, it is worth highlighting two that we sometimes do not think about. Burning the skin of the face can be obtained quite simply. Walking down the street in sunny weather, many people cover open areas of the skin, protect them with creams, often forgetting about their faces. Especially women, having applied decorative cosmetics on their faces, believe that the skin is protected under a layer of foundation or powder. But, no... Ultraviolet rays are able to overcome this barrier and do their job. This type of burn is fraught with an unpleasant consequence - withering and, as a result, premature aging of the skin. Experts call this phenomenon photoaging of the skin.

Even one burn that we can get from the sun is a burn of the eyes. Oddly enough, but in most cases this type of burn occurs in the winter, when few people think about protecting their eyes with special glasses. Ultraviolet rays, reaching the snow, are reflected from it and affect the retina of the eye. If in winter you feel a burning sensation in your eyes and notice their redness, it is most likely a sunburn. The consequences of it can be decreased vision and cataracts. Hence the conclusion follows - even in winter, on sunny days, you should not go out without wearing sunglasses.

Degrees and symptoms of sunburn

Sunburns are divided into four stages according to the degree of damage.

First degree . Probably each of us received a first-degree burn. After exposure to the sun, the skin swells, there is a slight swelling, tightness. Burns are hot to the touch and itchy.

Second degree . The skin is covered with watery blisters of various sizes, swells, and pain is felt when touched. Body temperature is slightly increased.

Third degree . A very severe form of burns, in which there is complete or partial tissue necrosis. Occurs rarely.

Degree four . Skin charring. It is extremely rare, but not excluded.

Color type and degree of risk

There are six skin types. Each of them has an individual sensitivity and susceptibility to ultraviolet radiation.

Most Receptive type one. It includes people with blond and red hair and white skin. Even being under the sun for thirty minutes, they can get a serious skin burn. The skin of people of the first type is never covered even with a light tan.

In people second type the skin is a little darker than the first. It also burns very quickly, but if you approach the sun exposure wisely, you can still get a light tan.

Third color type- European. The skin is slightly darker than the second type, it does not burn as quickly as in the representatives of the first two types. A beautiful light brown tan.

Olive skin tone have representatives fourth type. They have a low risk of sunburn. The skin can withstand prolonged exposure to the sun, and the tan is more intense than that of the third color type.

Fifth color type has dark skin, almost never burns in the sun. Tan color is dark brown.

The lowest sensitivity sixth type- People with black skin. Sunburn is completely excluded.

To whom tanning is contraindicated

There are several diseases in which it is absolutely impossible to sunbathe.

A disease in which a person completely lacks melatonin, which is responsible for the ability of the skin to tan, is called albinism. It is contraindicated for people suffering from this ailment to be under the sun's rays, even for a short time.

Exacerbation of manifestations systemic lupus erythematosus you are guaranteed if you do not protect your head and face with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. The "butterfly" will open its wings on your face.

porfiria also included in this prohibited list. The skin of a porphyria patient almost instantly becomes inflamed and blistered.

At vitiligo the skin of a sick person is covered with white spots, devoid of pigmentation. It is these spots that instantly burn in the sun.

People with xeroderma pigmentosa. Ultraviolet rays, acting on the skin, damage DNA, and these damages are irreversible and lead to skin cancer.

In addition to skin diseases, if you have problems with the health of the kidneys, respiratory organs, cardiovascular system, thyroid gland - you need to be very careful about sunbathing. The same applies to those who have high blood pressure, anemia and many moles on the body.

How to prevent sunburn

If you are healthy, sunbathing is good for you. But everything should be in moderation. There are a number of generally accepted rules, following which you will avoid burns and the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation on the body as a whole.

Morning sunburn will benefit from seven to eleven o'clock. After lunch, you can go under the sun from sixteen to seventeen.

You can not lie on the beach for a very long time on the first sunny day. You need to start from ten to fifteen minutes, while turning over from your back to your stomach, exposing the body to the sun from different sides.

The main thing is to know the measure

Add five to ten minutes of sunbathing daily. But the total time after the skin has become accustomed to ultraviolet radiation should not exceed two hours in the end.

Keep in mind that after swimming in a pond, your skin is most vulnerable, as moisture increases the penetration of UV rays. Therefore, immediately after leaving the water, no matter how much you want it, wipe yourself with a towel and only then lie down under the sun.

Before going to the beach, do not wash your body with soap or other detergents. Any hygiene procedure will wash away the natural protection of the skin. Also, do not go out under the sun hungry or, conversely, after a hearty meal.

And one more important warning. If the sun is hidden behind the clouds, you can still get sunburned, because the clouds are not a barrier to ultraviolet radiation! Protect your body with clothes and use sunscreen in the summer, choosing them according to your skin type.

Folk recipes

First, let's warn you about what you should never do.

After you feel that you are burned in the sun, do not use lotions, infusions on alcohol and vodka to wipe your skin!

Lubrication of the affected skin with any fatty and oily substances is also contraindicated.

At first glance, ice is what you need for a burn, it pleasantly cools and moisturizes the skin. But no! It also cannot be applied to the burn site.

If bubbles appear on the skin, do not rush to pierce them - this is fraught with infection!

Ointments, lotions, compresses

• On the skin affected by sunburn, apply a mass of grated raw potatoes. Grate potatoes on a fine grater, spread over the compress tissue and apply to the reddened areas for half an hour. Then rinse with water and pat dry with a soft cloth.

• You can make a compress from boiled potatoes. Boil potatoes without adding salt, crush them and use in the same way as in the previous recipe.
• There is an even simpler recipe. Sprinkle sunburned skin several times a day with potato starch.
• Another simplest and, perhaps, the most popular remedy is fermented milk products. Suitable for lubrication: yogurt, kefir, natural unsweetened yogurt or low-fat sour cream. Lubricate the reddened areas of the skin and leave to dry. This procedure will relieve pain and inflammation, as well as cover the skin with a thin film that does not allow moisture to evaporate from the surface of the already sun-dried skin.

• Beat the whites of raw chicken eggs and spread the skin with protein foam. Leave until completely dry. As soon as you feel the tightening sensation, take a cool shower, or wipe the skin with a soft damp cloth.
• Prepare an aloe milk remedy. Pound ten leaves of the plant to a mushy state, pour in a small amount of milk and coat with a lot of sunburn. After thirty minutes, wash, blot and brush with a light cream.
• Dilute the curd with buttermilk until creamy, apply to a cloth and apply to the skin. Keep at least an hour. The compress will anesthetize and cool.

• Prepare a decoction of ten grams of dry willow-tea in a glass of boiling water. Boil the grass flooded with water from the moment of boiling for a quarter of an hour. Cool, strain, soak a compress cloth in the decoction and apply to the burnt skin.
• Lotions and rubbing with a decoction of St. John's wort are effective in the treatment of burnt skin. Boil ten minutes a spoonful of dried St. John's wort in two hundred ml of water. Strain, cool and wipe the skin with a chilled decoction during the day.

• A decoction of chamomile is also used for rubbing and compresses. Pour one spoonful of dried flowers into two hundred ml of hot water and hold on low heat for thirty minutes. Use strained and chilled.
• Grind thirty grams of oak bark, pour in two hundred and fifty ml of hot water, bring to a boil and boil for ten minutes. Cool, strain. Make a lotion from the decoction on the affected areas of the skin.

• Lubricating the skin with pieces of aloe helps well. Tear off the leaf, rinse it, cut off a small piece, cut it lengthwise and wipe the skin with the pulp. Or squeeze the juice and immediately lubricate the skin with it.
• Summer is the time for watermelons and fresh cucumbers. Therefore, they can always be applied in case you overburned. Squeeze the juice from the watermelon and cucumber equally. Mix them together and use as a skin lotion.
• Apply and fix the cabbage leaf to the burned areas of the skin. Rinse it first and lightly beat it off.
• If suddenly there was no fresh cabbage at hand, sauerkraut will do. You can apply canned cabbage, but rubbing the skin with sauerkraut brine works just as well.

• With a small area of ​​the burn surface, lubricate the skin with apple cider vinegar. If you manage to burn yourself completely, then pour slightly warm water into a large container, add a bottle of apple cider vinegar, soak a cotton sheet in the solution and wrap yourself with it. Lie down for twenty minutes.
• Pluck psyllium leaves and apply them to sun-damaged skin. Suitable for such a compress and celandine. The leaves should be fixed on the body with thin bandages and held for at least an hour. From freshly picked plants, you can squeeze the juice and use it to lubricate the skin.

• Pumpkin regains lost ground and becomes a popular vegetable. In addition to nutritional value, it is an excellent remedy for the skin, incl. burned by the sun. Grate the pulp of the pumpkin and apply to the skin, securing with a thin bandage. Remove the pumpkin compress after two hours.
• Another simple and effective way is tomato juice. Rub a ripe tomato and wipe the body with the secreted juice. The analgesic and softening effect will be provided for several hours.
• It happens that none of the above is not in the house. But there is always tea. Brew strong black tea, cool it and, after soaking the cloth in the tea leaves, apply it to the skin for twenty minutes. A few tea compresses a day will quickly help relieve burn symptoms. By the way, before going out into the sun, wipe the skin with tea leaves, and you will protect yourself from sunburn.

• In summer, fresh herbs are in abundance, including parsley. Make a decoction of the leaves and use as a rubbing lotion or for compresses. If there is a lot of parsley, squeeze the juice out of it and wipe the sunburned areas.
• You can prepare in advance for sunbathing. After planting cucumbers, seeds remained - prepare a tincture based on them. For a glass of seeds, take ten of the same glasses of vodka. Mix everything and put in a cupboard for fourteen days. Then strain and store in a glass container in a cool place. Before use, dilute one part of the tincture with ten parts of boiled chilled water. Apply the cloth soaked in the product for ten minutes on the burnt skin. Use the same remedy to prevent sunburn, lighten freckles and age spots that have come out in the sun.

• The same property has tincture on cucumber peel. If you are peeling an overripe cucumber, do not discard the peel, but make a tincture from it in the same way as you would from cucumber seeds.
• Pound quince seeds to a mushy state, and pour in enough warm clean water to cover the slurry by about five centimeters. Close the lid tightly and shake the jar like a shaker for five minutes. Then strain and squeeze the seeds into an infusion. Twice a day, carry out the following procedure: Lubricate the affected skin with infusion of quince seeds, after fifteen minutes, lubricate again and so on for an hour. Repeat the same in the evening.

• Oatmeal is useful not only for breakfast, it refreshes and softens the skin of the face. It is also effective in the treatment of sunburn. Soak oatmeal in a little water until a paste forms. Apply it on the burnt surface and wait for it to dry. Rinse with lukewarm water and apply the mask again until dry.
• If you have oatmeal, then it is easier to prepare a remedy based on it. Just stir a spoonful of flour in two hundred ml of slightly warmed water. Wet a piece of cloth and apply to the skin. Leave until dry.

• Calendula is famous for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Prepare an infusion for compresses from it. Pour a glass of boiled water over a spoonful of dry calendula for twenty minutes. Keep the compress for half an hour three times a day.
• Prepare an infusion of rose petals with apple cider vinegar. You will get an ancient Greek remedy for sunburn. Pour a handful of rose petals with a glass of apple cider vinegar. After a week, strain and squeeze the petals into vinegar. Using an infusion to wipe the skin three times a day, you will get rid of irritation and get the desired cooling of the affected skin.

• In summer, apricots are sold in abundance on the shelves of shops and bazaars. If you get burned, crush three or four apricots and apply the crushed pulp to your skin for thirty minutes. Rinse your skin with warm water. Do not wipe, let it dry on its own.
• Mash a spoonful of rose hips, add a spoonful of coltsfoot to it and, pouring a glass of freshly boiled water, leave for an hour. Then strain the infusion and use for lotions on burned skin.

• Linden blossom has been used since ancient times for inflammation and softening of the skin. Prepare an infusion from a spoonful of crushed lime flowers and 100 ml of boiling water. After a quarter of an hour, strain and stir a coffee spoon of any honey into the infusion. Spread the burnt skin with the resulting product, sit quietly for half an hour and wash with water.
• First aid for sunburn - raw chicken egg yolk. Rub the yolk in the hands separated from the protein and spread it on the sore spots on the skin. Wait for the yolk to dry out on the skin and wash off without using soap.

• Very quickly relieves the symptoms of sunburn with a compress of mint infusion and linseed oil. Pour a spoonful of dried mint into a glass of boiled water. After a quarter of an hour, strain and stir two tablespoons of flax oil into the infusion. Three times a day, apply a cloth soaked in a mint-linen product to the burnt skin for a quarter of an hour.
• A mixture of raw chicken egg protein and grated carrots on a fine grater will perfectly remove all manifestations of excessive sun exposure. Apply the carrot-protein mixture on the skin for half an hour, and then rinse with water.

• Lemon lotion is another remedy that relieves skin inflammation well. Finely chop half a lemon, pour a glass of hot water and leave for several hours. Then strain and squeeze the lemon. Use to rinse the skin after cleansing.
• You can make any nourishing cream healing if you add juice squeezed from rhubarb root to it. One spoonful of cream will require the same amount of juice. It is necessary to smear the skin with such a cream twice a day - in the morning and in the evening.
• And if you mix two tablespoons of juice from rhubarb roots with a spoonful of low-fat sour cream and one yolk of a raw chicken egg, you get a very effective ointment for burns. Lubricate the skin affected by the sun with a thick layer twice a day, after half an hour wipe the skin with a damp cloth.

Baths

• Many healers, and even modern doctors, recommend baths with the addition of various decoctions and other substances. For example, with white wine vinegar. Pour a glass of vinegar into a bath filled with warm water. Immerse yourself in water for a quarter of an hour.
• An excellent bath option is soda. Dissolve half a pack of baking soda in prepared bath water. Bath time is a quarter of an hour. Do not wipe after taking. Let the skin dry naturally.
• One hundred and fifty ml of chamomile decoction can be added to the bath. Bath time is also fifteen minutes. Chamomile will have a calming and antiseptic effect.
• A milk bath is simply magical. Pour one liter of fresh warmed milk and a decoction of any herb into the prepared warm water. After twenty minutes, rinse your body with water and pat dry with a soft towel.
• If a walnut grows near your house, then make a decoction of its leaves, pour it into the bath and immerse yourself in healing water for half an hour. Excellent, but, unfortunately, not available to everyone.

Video - Sunburn treatment at home