Effective help with a sunburn

Expert tips against sunburn
The first day on the beach and he's here - the sunburn. The skin itches, burns and is crimson. But it does not stay that way. Because: "If you protect yourself inadequately from the sun, it will permanently damage your skin," explains Werner Saxinger, chief physician at the Wels-Grieskirchen State Hospital, in an interview with "nachrichten.at". In the worst case, skin cancer threatens. Nevertheless, many sun worshipers on vacation want one thing above all else: a crisp tan. Saxinger gives tips for sun protection and explains what happens in the body during a sunburn.

Every sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer
The desire for tanned skin on vacation is often great. "Nevertheless, you should definitely pay attention to sufficient sunscreen," advises the dermatologist. "Because the skin remembers every sunburn. Anyone who carelessly deals with the sun has an increased risk of skin cancer in the long term and a wrinkled skin in the old days. "

(Image: Dan Race - fotolia)

Exposing our skin to strong sunlight causes an inflammatory reaction similar to burns. The blood vessels dilate and cause redness and swelling as well as itching and burning at the affected area.

In order to avoid a sunburn, one should stay predominantly in the shade. In addition, sunscreen is indispensable even in shady places. Clothing and headgear also provide protection from UV radiation.

Home remedies for sunburn
If you are still plagued by a sunburn, simple home remedies provide relief. So, plenty of water should be drunk, as the sunburn deprives the body of liquid. At the same time, it also prevents overheating or sunstroke.

A lukewarm shower can also provide relief. In doing so, a mild water pressure should be set on the shower head so as not to put additional strain on the skin. For shower gel, the use of a gentle, skin-neutral product makes sense, to prevent the skin from drying out too much.

An old and effective home remedy for sunburn is cottage cheese. Generously applied to tea towels, it can be placed as an envelope on the affected areas. The quark has a cooling and anti-inflammatory effect. Alternatively, yogurt or kefir are also suitable. Cloths soaked in buttermilk also provide relief. After use, all residues of the milk product should be thoroughly rinsed off to reduce the risk of infection. In the pharmacy there are also lotions and gels to relieve the symptoms.

In case of very strong sunburn go to the doctor
If the sunburn is very severe and blisters on the skin, you should go to the doctor. A treatment should then be carried out under no circumstances on your own. "Never open the bubbles yourself, there is a risk of infection," Saxinger warns. If the skin dissolves already flat, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. (Ag)