For obvious reasons, sunburn is by far the most dreaded condition as soon as summer approaches. The scorching heat is enough to tell just how worse the conditions have gotten. And right on cue, comes sunburn to double the trouble. So if you have got the worst sunburn of your life, you have got our sympathies and some tips on handling it. Nothing better than staying prepared and working with the right remedies and products to heal the burn. While we are in it, we will also answer some frequently asked questions about sunburn treatment. Take a look
But, first things first!
How long does sunburn last?
The thing with sunburn is that it affects the skin in various ways (symptoms). This is why it is categorized into different degrees. And while sunburn means skin burn due to the sun, it is a process where the body heals the sun damage. And that’s why the duration will entirely depend on the severity of the sunburn. This goes as follows-
- First-degree Burn
This is the mildest and therefore, the least harmful and the most common type of sunburn. This makes the skin appear red and feel dry. It can get slightly painful but mostly bearable. It can last for less than a week.
- Second-degree Burn
This affects the first two layers of the skin. It will pain terribly if touched or exposed to a hot temperature. Blisters are an uncertain symptom under this category. This implies that scarring is also a possibility. The burn can take anywhere from eight days to two weeks to heal.
- Third-Degree Burn
It is also known as a deep partial-thickness burn as it goes beyond the two layers of the skin and is severe. Blisters filled with fluids will appear. It could last for three weeks to heal and if it does not, then it will result in scarring.
- Fourth-Degree Burn
If you have not dealt with this type of sunburn then you are pretty much safe as this has to be the worst sunburn case. This is called the full-thickness burn and needs immediate medical attention. Any treatment done would be no less than surgery. This is because it penetrates deep inside the skin and reaches the muscles as well. Can eyes get sunburned? Absolutely. Severe skin discoloration can also happen in this case. It would take a long time to treat the burn let alone heal it.
You may not be aware that sunburn symptoms take about 4 hours to appear/affect. This does not mean you have to wait till those hours to identify the severity. You must act immediately. This brings us to…
How can I get rid of my sunburn fast?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Sunburn—a result of skin receiving too much exposure from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays—can cause long-lasting damage to the skin. This damage increases a person’s risk of getting skin cancer, making it critical to protect the skin from the sun. So, regardless of the severity, sunburns should be treated by immediately by-
- Taking cold showers immediately and frequently. This will help in relieving pain and discomfort. Make sure to leave the body slightly damp before you moisturize. This will lock in hydration in the skin.
- Pick the right moisturizer for yourself. Make sure it is with infused with cooling agents like aloe vera. This will help soothe the skin while providing keeping it hydrated. Get yourself a hydrocortisone cream if the irritation escalates. Steer clear of any product that has ingredients with “-caine” as the suffix, eg. benzocaine. This will only deteriorate the condition.
- While you keep your skin moisturized on the outside, it is important to keep your skin hydrated from the inside. This is why it would be best to drink more water than usual. Dehydration worsens sunburn and therefore, always keep a water bottle handy.
- Another great way to treat sunburn is by consuming Sunburn Drink. It is a refreshing drink made with all organic ingredients and essential minerals that protect and heals your skin. Given its efficacy, refreshing taste, and organic content, it is safe for kids to consume it.
- Beware of the blisters. This means it is a second or third-degree burn in the making. Never touch or pop them, it will only get worse. Blisters form to prevent infection and popping them will hinder the healing process.
- Consider medication if the symptoms get worse. Medicines like ibuprofen or aspirin can work well to reduce discomfort, redness, and swelling.
- Be extra cautious when stepping outside. Although it would be best to stay inside, make sure to stay covered when going outside. Cotton full-length apparel will do the work. It will keep you cool and protect the skin from further damage. Don’t forget to put on sunblock 15-20 minutes before stepping outside. Make sure to reapply it every two hours for the best protection.
How quickly can a sunburn go away?
Whether you have the worst sunburn or a mild one, you must start working on immediately. This way you will get faster and more effective results. So, can a sunburn go away in 2 days? That is possible if you are dealing with first-degree burns and take the right sunburn treatment. And if it is anything else beyond the first degree, then it is going to take a while. Still, the sunburn treatment process can speed up with Sunburn Drink. You will heal and recover faster. And there is no sunburn scare if you consume it before sunbathing.
So what are you waiting for? Worst sunburn cases do not stand a chance if you consume Sunburn Drink before stepping out. That’s how effective it is. As long as you follow the tips and remedies mentioned above, you have nothing to worry about. Sunburn can cause irritation and discomfort but if you remain prepared and act accordingly, you can effectively cure it.
