The sunburn, which is generally trivialized, is actually a real burn of our skin.
“”It is caused by UV rays which destroy the cells of the epidermis“Explains Dr. Gérald Kierzek. Result: the skin blushes, heats and becomes painful. How should you treat it and when can you be exposed again?
Sunburn, a lively reaction of damaged skin
Due to the damage it causes to our skin, the sunburn triggers an inflammatory reaction. In the most serious cases, blisters may appear. In response, the epidermis tries to defend itself. He thickens and then peeled: this step is called design.
The first reflex to have, in the face of a sunburn, the priority is to relieve the burning quickly.
“”Refresh the affected area with cold water or wet compresses soothes inflammation“Advises Dr. Kierzek. Then, it is advisable to apply an aloe vera gel or an unfovied soothing cream.
Beware of certain products, which our expert advises against
“Hydration is also essential: you have to drink a lot of water to help the body compensate for losses” Add our expert.
On the other hand, Dr. Kierzek warns against the use of fatty products such as oils or butter, which “imprison the heat” and aggravate the burn. In case of intense pain, paracetamol can be taken.
But if important blisters, fever or discomfort appear, a medical consultation is essential.
Slow healing, weakened skin
Healing of a sunburn takes time. “”It is necessary to wait for the complete healing, that is to say 5 to 10 days depending on the severity, before any new exposure “ insists Dr. Kierzek. As long as the skin remains red or sensitive, it must be strictly protected.
Once the visible signs have been disappeared, exposure to the sun must resume very gradually, applying a 50+ index sunscreen. The skin remains weakened for several weeks and remains more vulnerable to a new aggression.
Finally, in general, it is essential to protect yourself, during an exposure to the sun. Hat, T-shirt and sunscreen to put every two hours will be your best weapons, facing UV.