Expert advice on how to treat and manage burn scars and sunburn | Health

Unfortunately, like many other wounds, burn scars can be difficult to remove, but with the right diet, medication, they can be healed over time. First and second degree burns can be treated at home, but with proper guidance.
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In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Rupali Sharma, Founder of Aegte Lifescience, said, “To prevent scarring, one can run cool tap water or use Aloe Vera gel, as it is of a natural antibiotic that can soothe and cool the skin, preventing further infections. Applying a silicone or petroleum gel helps reduce the size, stiffness, and redness of burn scars. Let the blisters heal on their own and cover them with a non-stick gauge to prevent infection. For pain relief, one can follow prescribed over-the-counter medications.
Since it takes about a week to heal a first or second degree burn, the skin expert suggested protecting the skin from sun damage, as UV rays can make scars prominent and visible . She advised: “Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the affected area at least twice a day to promote healing. Hydrate with an organic moisturizer to avoid itching. Take vitamins as prescribed to speed up the healing process.
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Since everyone reacts to burn scars differently, Rupali stressed that it’s important to give your skin the necessary healing time. She recommended: “Patients with minor burns can reduce scarring with home treatments, but severe burns require more intensive treatment. Therefore, be sure to consult a doctor in case of severe infections and burns.
In summer, it becomes difficult to fully enjoy our days and not worry about the sun. It’s not possible to control the sun’s harmful rays, but you can definitely protect your skin from burns and there are many options that can help keep your skin healthier and safer.
Rhythm Vats Bhardwaj, co-founder of Riyo Herbs India, has revealed some basic hacks and tricks you can try to protect your face from the sun. These include:
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1. Opt for sunscreen – Your skin is exposed to the sun all day where sunscreen becomes your best friend. With a good SPF 50 sunscreen to cover your skin, you can protect yourself from harmful UVB and UVA rays. You can even choose lip balms and cosmetics with SPF. You should apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out in the sun. It is well absorbed between this period.
2. Choose your sunscreen wisely – There are loads of sunscreens available in the market these days. Picking a cream at random without knowing its effectiveness and your skin types can be harmful. When skin type becomes a varied concern, the spectrum of sunscreen remains the same for everyone. You should choose a water-resistant product that contains an SPF of 30 or higher. It is best to use SPF 50 sunscreen spray or creams that can protect you from sunburn and tanning.
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3. Choose the right outfit – Choose your outfits wisely when out in the sun. It is recommended to go with long sleeve shirts, tops, long skirts and pants for better UV protection. Always opt for colors that offer better protection against heat and rays. Even if you’ve applied your SPF 50 sunscreen, don’t take your outfits lightly.
4. Don’t underestimate the night – Remember, unlike the sun, your whole day ends in night. Therefore, morning rituals alone will not save your skin from the sun. You should also follow certain nightly rituals to resolve the damage done in the morning. This ritual includes the obligatory use of a moisturizing facial cleanser before bedtime. Keeping your skin hydrated is crucial when it comes to taking care of your skin. You can also practice this habit before applying sunscreen in the morning.
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5. Stay hydrated – Generally speaking, the air is not as dry in summer as it is in winter. However, you should not give up on moisturizer – your skin can still dry out in the summer. That said, a heavy moisturizer can feel like it’s weighing your face down in hot weather. It is advisable to find a lighter one. It is recommended to get a moisturizer with an SPF to provide an extra layer of protection. Don’t put it on in the morning and think it can replace sunscreen all day. You need at least SPF 30 and reapply every 2 hours.