Sunburn can happen after prolonged periods of exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or a tanning bed. Symptoms appear after several hours later. Superficial burns are reddened, itchy and sore while second-degree sunburn usually starts with the development of blisters within the initial 24 hours after being exposed. Severe sunburn can result to a permanent damage on the skin that progresses to skin cancer late in life.
Along with peeling, redness and pain, sunburn can cause itchiness. Sunburn will cause damage to the top layer of the skin which has plenty of nerve fibers that are responsible for the itchy sensation. The damage from the sun triggers the nerves to fire which causing itchiness until the burn is healed.
Treatment for sunburn
- Apply a cold compress or take a cool shower to lessen the symptoms of sunburn.
- Check the affected areas for the development of blisters.
- Spray the affected area using apple cider vinegar. The vinegar is a weak acid that is used as an antiseptic which helps balance the pH level of the skin for fast healing as well as relieving the itchiness. Fill a spray bottle with apple cider vinegar and spray on the affected skin and allow it to dry. Avoid rubbing the vinegar on the skin. If the skin starts to itch, spray again. If a spray bottle is not available, a cotton ball can be used by dabbing it on the affected area.
- Apply a moisturizing lotion or aloe vera on the affected skin and cover with a light bandage or gauze dressing.
- Oatmeal helps in moisturizing dry skin and normalizes the pH of the skin which is sometimes at a high level when the skin is dry and itchy. In a bathtub filled with lukewarm water, mix in ground oatmeal until it is completely dissolved. Soak in the solution for at least 10 minutes and rinse the body using lukewarm water. Take this bath at least 3 times every day. Pat dry but avoid rubbing the towel over the body.
Additional measures
- If there is severe itchiness that does not respond to treatment, take a hot shower as long as the body can tolerate. Avoid scrubbing and do not use soap. Continue with the hot showers at least 2 days until the itchiness subsides. The heat of the water will activate the pain nerves which suppress and minimize the itchy sensation.
- Apply witch hazel on the sunburn. Witch hazel has tannins that helps lessen the swelling, pain and itchiness. Use witch hazel at least 6 times every day to help relieve the pain and itchiness.
- Use the prescribed medications such as hydrocortisone which is a steroid cream that helps lessen the inflammation, itchy sensation and redness of the area. Apply the cream on the affected area at least 4 times every day by rubbing it on the skin.
FACT CHECK
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunburn
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/176441.php
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/sunburn