At Koa, we are all about preventing sunburns by using high-performance mineral sunscreens. However, we know that sometimes we can end up outside without adequate sun protection, and may get sunburned. For those situations, read on for 5 essential tips to treat sunburned skin and restore skin’s health after a burn.
1. Cool Showers and Baths
When skin is sunburned, it craves instant relief. Simple cold temperatures will help. Take cool showers or baths to soothe burnt areas. Avoid hot water, as it can strip away natural oils and worsen the condition. After showering or bathing, gently pat skin dry with a soft towel, leaving a thin layer of moisture to prevent dryness.
2. Calming Moisturizers
A sunburned complexion needs gentle hydration. If you burn your face, opt for a face moisturizer with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or cucumber extract. These natural compounds nourish skin and reduce inflammation. If your body’s burnt, look for a soothing body lotion with similar ingredients. Apply hydrating cream generously and reapply as needed throughout the day.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a sunburn superhero with its powerful healing properties. Invest in a high-quality aloe vera gel or extract fresh gel from an aloe plant. Apply aloe generously to sunburned skin for cooling relief and accelerated healing. Allow the gel to absorb fully before applying any other products.
4. Hydration from Within
Sunburn can dehydrate the body, so it's crucial to replenish lost fluids. Drink plenty of water and hydrating fluids like coconut water or herbal tea to promote healing from the inside out. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day to maintain optimal hydration.
5. Sun Protection
Prevention is key to avoiding future sunburns. Protect your skin by wearing wide-brimmed hats, lightweight clothing with UV protection, and using broad-spectrum sunscreen. Opt for SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, especially when spending extended time outdoors. Shielding your skin from harmful UV rays is the best way to prevent sunburns and further damage to skin.
Treating sunburned skin requires a combination of gentle care, soothing ingredients, and adequate hydration. Follow the Koa Field Guide’s five essential skincare tips to alleviate discomfort, speed up the healing process, and ensure your skin stays healthy and protected for your next outdoors adventure. Remember, prevention is the best defense against sunburn, so make sun protection a daily habit for healthy, radiant and resilient skin.
