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Spending time in the sun and ending up with a sunburn is never ideal. As redheads, we know this well. Sunburns can cause pain, discomfort, and long-term damage to the skin. It’s best to avoid sunburnt by using SPF and proper sun protection, but if it does happen, how you treat it matters. We’ve told you how to treat a sunburn at home, but this usually applies to body sunburns. Here’s how you can treat some of the more specific sunburns redhead might experience this summer.
1. Lip sunburn
Sunburnt lips can often be mistaken for dry or chapped lips but need to be treated a little differently to ease discomfort and reduce damage. Like any other sunburn, you can use aloe vera on your lips to help relieve pain and improve hydration. Keeping your lips hydrated is vital in helping them heal. You can use a soothing lip balm, but avoid any with heavy oils until the burn has cooled. Hyaluronic acid is great for adding hydration to the lips. You can also use a skimmed milk compress to soothe the lips and reduce inflammation.
Additionally, protecting your lips from further sun exposure is crucial for healing. Wear a lip balm with SPF if you’re going out, and try to stay in the shade whenever possible. If your lips are severely burned or show signs of blistering, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional to avoid complications and ensure the ultimate care for your sun-damaged skin.
2. Scalp sunburn
Your scalp is quite sensitive and can quickly become burnt if you’re out in the sun without a hat or hair SPF. The best way to treat a scalp burn is to avoid excess heat or cold, so take a relaxed or room-temperature shower. Use minimal hair products, as some may irritate a burnt scalp. You also want to avoid hard brushing or tugging on the hair. You can soothe the scalp with aloe vera, a cool compress, or a soothing rinse with witch hazel or rose water. Avoid heat styling your hair, especially blow drying. You should also avoid chemicals like bleach or dye added to your hair until the burn is gone.
In addition to these treatments, it’s essential to keep your scalp protected from future sun exposure. Wearing a hat or a scarf can help shield your scalp from further damage while it heals. Opt for a broad-brimmed hat to provide maximum coverage, and consider using a sunscreen specifically formulated for the scalp if you’ll be outside. If the burn is particularly severe or you experience persistent pain, blistering, or signs of infection, seek medical attention to ensure proper care and prevent complications.
3. Facial sunburn
When you get sunburnt on your face, you want to be very careful to avoid excess damage or scarring. You may have to alter your skincare routine until the burn heals. Your primary focus should be on hydrating products to add moisture. You will also want to skip anything irritating the skin, such as exfoliants, some acids, or retinol. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should avoid most products that end in ‘-caine,’ such as benzocaine, as these creams can “irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction.” Products high in antioxidants, such as topical vitamins C and E, may help reduce redness and itching from a sunburn. If unsure, quickly search and see if your skincare is sunburn-safe.
Also, please make sure to protect your face from further sun exposure by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF when going outside. Hats with brims can provide extra protection for sensitive areas. If your sunburn is severe or you experience symptoms like severe blistering, intense pain, or signs of infection, it’s important to seek medical advice. Proper care and avoiding further irritation are essential for promoting healing and minimizing potential scarring.
4. Eye sunburn
Sunburnt eyes often clear up on their own and don’t need much intervention, but you can take a few steps to help ease any discomfort. Avoid the sun and wear UV-blocking glasses when going outdoors, use eye drops to keep your eyes hydrated, and avoid wearing contacts until your eye sunburn has subsided. It’s also essential to avoid getting anything foreign in your eye, like skincare, dirt, or cleansing products such as facial cleanser or shampoo, as these may cause further irritation.
You can apply a cold compress over your closed eyes for additional comfort to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation. Could you use a clean cloth to avoid introducing new irritants? Suppose your eyes feel gritty and sensitive to light or experience significant discomfort. In that case, it’s advisable to consult an eye specialist to ensure no severe damage and receive appropriate treatment. Proper protection and care are crucial to full recovery and prevent complications.
Rock it like a Redhead!
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