Summer brings longer days and the temptation to bask in the sun. But with great joy comes the potential misery of sunburn. Dr. Hana Patel, an expert in dermatology, shares invaluable tips on how to comfortably sleep with sunburn. Surprisingly, it starts with extra pillows.
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The first thing Dr. Patel recommends is to cool down the affected areas before bedtime. Taking a cool shower or bath can help reduce the heat in your skin. She suggests avoiding harsh soaps and opting for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers. After cooling down, gently pat your skin dry rather than rubbing it.
Applying a good aloe vera gel or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can work wonders in soothing inflamed skin. Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling. Dr. Patel advises storing your aloe vera gel in the refrigerator for an added cooling effect when applied.
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Hydration is key when dealing with sunburn. Drinking plenty of water helps to rehydrate your skin from the inside out. Dr. Patel points out that sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body, so it’s crucial to replenish those lost fluids.
Avoid wearing tight clothing to bed. Opt for loose, breathable fabrics like cotton to minimize irritation. Tight clothes can rub against your sensitive skin, increasing discomfort and delaying the healing process. Dr. Patel emphasizes the importance of letting the skin breathe to facilitate recovery.
Temperature regulation in your sleep environment is crucial. Keeping your bedroom cool can help you sleep more comfortably. Dr. Patel suggests using a fan or air conditioner to maintain a cooler temperature, which can reduce the itching and burning sensation.
Pillows can be your best friends when trying to sleep with a sunburn. Dr. Patel advises using extra pillows to elevate the burned areas. Elevation helps reduce swelling and can ease the throbbing pain associated with severe sunburn. She recommends positioning yourself in a way that places the least amount of pressure on the affected areas.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Taking a dose an hour before bedtime can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, Dr. Patel cautions against relying on medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
It’s also important to stay out of the sun while your skin is healing. Sun exposure can aggravate the burn and delay the healing process. If you must go outside, apply a high-SPF sunscreen to all exposed areas and wear protective clothing and a hat.
Finally, Dr. Patel reminds us that prevention is better than cure. The best way to avoid the discomfort associated with sunburn is by taking preventive measures. Regularly apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, seek shade when the sun is at its peak, and wear UV-protective clothing.
By following these expert tips, you can make your nights more bearable and help your skin recover faster from the damage caused by sunburn. Remember, your skin needs time to heal, so be patient and take all necessary steps to ease the discomfort and promote healing.
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