Human skin cells are constantly shedding and being replaced. When skin is damaged by excessive sun exposure, a large groups of damaged cells all shed at once, causing visible white sections of skin to peel and slough off. This can be visually unattractive and is also uncomfortable, since the surrounding skin is often burned, blistered and dry. The best way to prevent skin peeling after sunburn is to avoid sunburn in the first place by liberally applying sunscreen with a high level of protection. When sunscreen is forgotten or incorrectly applied and a sunburn appears, the skin has already been irreversibly damaged. But the pain and discomfort of peeling skin can be eased by keeping the sunburned area moisturized and free of irritants and by consuming a healthy diet.
1Shower or soak in lukewarm or cool water to mitigate peeling and rehydrate the skin.
- Adding oatmeal to cool bath water can help add moisture to the skin and further reduce peeling.
- Gently pat dry with a towel instead of rubbing.
2Moisturize frequently with a mild, unscented lotion.
- Look for a lotion that has aloe vera listed in the ingredients as extract from the aloe vera plant soothes sunburn. Many lotions designed specifically for sunburn relief include aloe vera. You can optionally mix 1 part aloe vera gel with 1 part plain lotion to create your own soothing treatment.
- Moisturize at least 3 times per day or whenever peeling is visible. When peeling skin is moisturized immediately it is less likely to spread.
3Consume a balanced and nutritious diet high in water, fruits, vegetables and lean meats.
- Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day, since hydration increases cell turnover, which causes your peeling to quickly heal.
- Eat plenty of protein, iron and vitamins A, C and E. These keep your skin healthy, which reduces the negative effects of sunburn and peeling.
4Avoid scratching, peeling or picking sunburned skin, since aggravation can cause infection and delay healing.
- Moisturize when itching skin is bothering you and if necessary, gently trim off peeling skin.
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- Avoid harsh soaps, hot water and exfoliating treatments when you have sunburned skin. These can irritate the skin and make it more dry, extending healing time.
- Gently rubbing grated cucumber over sunburned skin is a natural remedy for peeling irritated skin.
- When you have 10-15 minutes free get some aloe vera and vitamin E after sun and apply to face so it is thick and visible. Do so at least 5 times a day and keep topping up if needs be.
- Consult a physician if you have excessive peeling skin that is not the result of recent sun exposure, as there are some medical conditions that cause the skin to peel.
- Frequent sunburn can lead to cancer, premature aging and blisters. Unprotected sun exposure should be avoided at all costs. Always wear SPF 30 or higher lotion while outdoors, and frequently re-apply, especially if you get wet.
Categories: Sun and Sunless Tanning
Recent edits by: Abrogation316, Alabaster, Hailey Girges
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