By: Angela Yeo
During my young and reckless years, when I did not know better, I would bask under the sun for hours with nothing but tanning oil on hot summer days. It was the only way my pale skin would ever get a tan. After tanning, I become as red as a lobster and then I would feel THE PAIN! I remember heading home from Boracay in pain, carrying all my bags with my hands whilst avoiding to hang bags on my shoulder because of the sunburn – that’s something I would never do again. I am sure most of you have experienced sunburn before, so here are some quick remedies for sunburnt skin:
Aftersun lotion
The aftersun lotion is a moisturizer that contains aloe vera. It cools and soothes the skin and provides relief from irritation. If you do not have an aftersun lotion, you may use a moisturizer, and apply it after bath. Tip: chill it in the fridge before use for a cooling and soothing effect.
Cool Oatmeal Bath
Slip into a tub with cool water and ½ – 1 cup of oatmeal. Oats have anti-inflammatory properties that effectively heal dry and itchy skin. It is also a natural moisturizer.
Cool Towel or Compress
For quick relief, apply a cool compress or towel directly on the burnt areas. Rewet the towel often to keep it cool. You may apply as often as you need to alleviate the pain and discomfort.
Drink Water
Burnt skin is dehydrated skin. Replenish lost liquids by drinking a lot of water – this will also help heal burns. Drinking water helps cleanse and heal the body especially during hot sweaty summer days. You know you’re hydrated when your urine is light in color and almost clear.
Prevention
The best remedy is really prevention. Use sunscreen everyday especially during summer time and when you know that you’ll be outdoors for long stretches.
