Youthful Skin: Sunburn Smarts

Not all UV rays are the same. UVA rays have a longer wavelength and are able to impact the deeper layers of skin. They're also a year-round concern and are the culprit of pre-mature aging. UVB rays are the ones that give us sunburns and skin cancer. Both UVA and UVB rays, however, cause damage to cells and must be avoided.
UV exposure alters the DNA components in the skin's cells very quickly and the corresponding damage and mutations are linked to skin cancer. Skin cancer is most frequently found on the areas that receive a lot of exposure, such as the face, hands and arms. Studies show that as little as one significant sunburn in childhood can greatly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. Murad Resurgence has a vast array of skin nourishing sunscreens to help shield your precious skin.

The symptoms of sunburn can take a while to appear. Redness, irritation and pain often show up 2 to 6 hours after being exposed, making it essential to monitor the skin for signs of burn. A sunburn is the worst in the first 24 hours. After several days, sunburned skin will begin flaking and peeling with most signs of burn disappearing within a week.
Severe sunburn is an entirely different type of sunburn that results in painful blisters and swelling. The blisters, which become red, hot and may ooze fluid, may become infected, leading to a secondary infection on top of the burn. Don't risk it: if sunburn results in blisters, seek treatment options from a doctor immediately.

You're burned and in pain- what can you do to soothe sunburned skin?
Aloe. Gels and lotions with aloe vera are the time-honored treatment for sunburn, providing cooling relief.
NSAIDs. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help relieve inflammation and pain when taken every four hours.
Cool compresses and baths. Cool water helps to take the sting out of the burn. For smaller areas, soak a washcloth in cool water and apply to affected areas for 20 minutes. Or, you can use milk, since the proteins present in dairy give skin a protective coating that prevents water evaporation. For larger areas, a cool bath can help, but don't use bath salts, perfumes or oils, which can irritate the skin.
Moisturizing Creams. Using a hydrating skin cream is essential for sealing in moisture and helping damaged skin heal. Apply at least three times per day and avoid anything containing irritating perfumes.
You should also stay hydrated by drinking lots of non-caffeine fluids to counteract dehydration.

Also, never pick at peeling skin as this can increase healing time and make the side-effects of the burn last longer. Along with this, you shouldn't exfoliate, which includes avoiding salicylic or glycolic acids or retinoids.