Sunburns are a common occurrence in the summertime. It is important to know that sunburns are caused by overexposure to UV rays from the sun. Still, it can lead to peeling and inflammation of the skin. The more time you spend in the sun, the higher your risk of getting sunburn. There are many ways that people can protect themselves from sunburns. Some of these include:
- avoiding direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours
- staying in the shade while outside
- wearing sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher
- wearing clothing such as long sleeves and pants to cover up as much skin as possible
- Use a hat with a brim wide enough to protect your neck and ears.
Did you know by eating, drinking, or applying some power foods you can cure sunburn? Take a look at these five effective foods and drinks.
Tomatoes:
Tomatoes are loaded with vitamin C, which has been shown to reduce sunburns by up to 50% when taken orally before exposure. These lycopene-rich foods can majorly reduce the severity of sunburn. Lycopene is a red pigment that gives tomatoes their color. It is also a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to protect against skin cancer and reduce the risk of heart disease. Antioxidant-rich foods like tomatoes work immensely well to optimize sun protection. Other than consuming it daily, a great way to use tomatoes for sunburn is to create a paste with tomatoes and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for about 10 minutes, and then rinse off with cool water.
Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil has antioxidant properties that can help heal skin cells, which can help protect against UV damage. It also helps keep your skin moist and hydrated, which will help keep it healthy as well as reduce inflammation on your skin that may result from overexposure to UV rays. The painful, itchy feeling and the constant peeling can be controlled by using coconut oil. It soothes sunburns by working on the skin cells.
Avocado:
Avocado is rich in vitamin E, vitamin D; essential fatty acids, protein, beta carotene, and lecithin which help reduce inflammation and redness from sunburns. It also contains zinc, which is an essential mineral for skin health. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats which help to moisturize the skin and keep it healthy. You can make yourself an avocado face mask by mixing half an avocado with two tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of lemon juice.
Green Tea:
Green is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. What’s more, to love this beverage is its photoprotective effects. EGCG or epigallocatechin gallate makes it a powerhouse drink to protect against UV exposure. The plant-based compounds help in DNA repair. This is a great indication of green tea acts as a protective barrier against extremely harmful sun exposure.
Watermelon:
With summers right around the corner, is another lycopene-rich food; watermelon. As much as we all love its juicy, sweet, refreshing taste, we cannot deny the benefits of protection against sun exposure. How about fusing it with fresh tomatoes to make a delicious punch? Double the antioxidant dose, better the protection. Not to forget, flawless, glowing, healthy skin is guaranteed. It’s a total win-win!
Sunburn Drink:
Sunburn Drink is designed specifically to give you protection from sunburn. Sunburns can cause a great deal of discomfort and inconvenience as well as a significant health concern.
Without the hassles of getting sunburnt, summer 2023 is going to be great. Use the help of each of these foods mentioned above and steer clear of sunburns for life! After all, what’s better than relying on nature’s bounty to treat and prevent the effects of harsh UV exposure?
