Even the most religious devotion to your sunscreen make you totally immune to the suns harmful rays.
A sunburn is the result of your skin getting too much exposure to the suns ultraviolet rays. Especially the dangerous UVB rays. To many people a sunburn may be a part of summer. A temporary discomfort that just goes away. But, it can cause long term damage. Including wrinkles, skin cancer and sun spots.
Since sunburns are pretty common. It's easy to just think "Oh, it'll just go away. It's not a big deal". But, research shows that even one bad burn can have a significant impact on your skin.
Having blistering sunburns can increase your risk of Melanoma. One of the deadliest forms of skin cancer by 80%. In a perfect world you'd be so slathered in SPF that you would prevent your chances of getting a sunburn by 100 percent. And also your cjances of getting a tan.
So, what can you do about it?
1) HYDRATE
When you get a sunburn, UV light cause inflammation in the skin. Similar to a burn you would get from an oven. That's why it's important to hydrate the skin. The sunburn draws fluids from the body to the skins surface. To help repair it from the inside out. So it's important to stay hydrated.
For the most soothing effects, look for a product that contains aloe and helps calm the skin. Like Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Soothe Lotion. Or Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturizer .
2) DECREASE SWELLING
You can decrease swelling by taking an over the counter pill. And reduce the inflammation from the inside out. OTC anti-inflammatory pills such as Advil can help reduce redness and help deal with the pain.
3) Protect Any Blisters
If your burn blisters, it's important to keep them intact and not to rupture or pop them. Doing so can turn them into a second degree burn. So, take caution.
Not only will the burn heal more quickly, but it will prevent you from getting any infections. If your burn is severe, please see a board certified dermatologist. Some times a steroid cream can help speed the healing process.
4) Fight Free-Radical Damage
Most burns will heal in a couple days. But the damage done by UV rays is forever. UV light promoted the production of free-radicals. Which can harm collagen and elastin. As well as damage the DNA of your skin cells. This is turn causes the effects of early aging and your risks of skin cancer.
Applying a Vitamin C Serum can help. It won't undo any exposure. But can help minimize the harmful effects.
5) Prevent Any Further Damage
The best treatment is prevention. While your sunburned skin is healing, it is important to protect it from any further damage. Stay in the shade, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen.
Most people don't use enough. Or at all. Recommendations are to use a shot glass size portion of at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours. Whether it's Neon or Glitter, don't leave the house without it.
DISCLAIMER; this is not intended to be professional medical advise. As always speak to or seek professional care from your personal doctor or dermatologist.