subject: The Pain Of Sunburn [print this page] There are certain pains that are quickly forgotten and sunburns are one of them. Far too many of us are very irresponsible in the sun. Perhaps it's because we're addicted to getting tanned and don't care what price we have to pay for it, perhaps we are dark skinned and convince ourselves that we don't get burnt, or perhaps we are just lazy. Either way, when the sun decides to burn your skin, it is painful and very uncomfortable.
Ways to deal with a sunburn include:
1. Taking a cold shower:
Hot water does not feel good on hot skin. When you come in from the pool or the beach it always feels nice to wash your body down with cool water.
2. Applying aloe vera:
Sunburnt skin feels tight and soar. Make sure that you regularly moisturise it and apply aloe vera to avoid skin tearing or peeling excessively. Aloe also cools your skin which gives a nice sensation when you are burnt.
3. Wearing loose clothes:
When your skin is burnt it hurts all over. Anything that touches it is aggravating, so it's best to minimise that feeling with loose clothing. Replace jeans with leggings, track pants or a dress, and switch the tight shirt for a baggier one. You might also want to put your bra on a loser strap if you wear one.
4. Drinking lots of water:
If you've been out in the sun you're bound to be a bit dehydrated, especially if you're burnt. Make sure to drink lots of water while you're outside and after you come back in.
Avoid the sunburn in the first place by:1. Wearing sunscreen:When planning a day at the beach or pool make sure to put on sunscreen. Waterproof sunscreen will keep you from having to recoat every time you jump in and out. At the very least you should protect your face as well as the parts of your body that aren't usually exposed to the sun, including your chest and stomach.2. Staying in the shade:It's fine to lie out in the sun for a short while, but try to avoid doing it at the hottest points of the day, and try not to stay out too long. Sitting under an umbrella or a tree periodically will reduce your chances of being burnt.3. Wearing a cover-up:If you're going for a walk on the beach or eating a meal outside, put on a light shirt or a sarong to give your skin a little break from the intensity of the sun. Your first objective should be to avoid getting burnt at all. If however, you fail to be responsible before you go out, make sure to make up for it when you come back in.by: Tamara Jacobs
