How To Prevent And Treat Sunburn: An Expert Skincare Guide

Janhvi Kapoor often shares her statement-making style or movie shoot pictures on social media but this time, it was to share how things can go wrong for a star like herself too. The Bollywood actress shared a picture on Instagram which showed how a day in the sun wrecked havoc. Across her arms and back is visible signs of sunburning in what seems to be the shape of the cutouts of her top.

(Also Read: 5 Essential Beauty Tips to Prevent Sunburn on Your Next Beach Vacation)

Photo Credit: Instagram/@janhvikapoor

It may be 2025 but sunscreen is still not as essential as it should be; for the face and the body too. Many believe that tanning is the only downside of skipping sunscreen. Besides just tanning however, non-application of sunscreen increases the chance of pigmentation, wrinkles, skin cancer and sunburns.

People with lighter skin tend to get sunburned quicker than those with darker skin, as seen in Janhvi Kapoor's picture. However the chance of sunburning shouldn't make an individual fear the sun. With the hotter seasons close at hand, take note of this expert advice on how to prevent and treat sunburning.

What Causes A Sunburn?

The sun gives out UVA, UVB and UVC light. While UVC doesn't reach the earth, UVA and UVB light damage the skin. Additionally, they can also can alter DNA and thus, prematurely age the skin and over time, even contribute to skin cancers.

How Quickly Does A Sunburn Occur And What Does It Look Like?

Sunburning is a sign of short-term overexposure to the sun. One's skin type, the sun's intensity and time exposed to the sun determines how long it will take for a sunburn to develop, says the experts at WebMD. Sunburns leave a painful sensation over the skin, accompanied by itchiness, redness, blisters, swelling and sometimes, even flu-like symptoms.

How Can You Prevent A Sunburn?

Sunscreen is paramount to keep sunburns at bay. Says Dr. Charu Sharma, Head of Dermatology at Cureskin, "The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) denotes a sunscreen's ability to shield the skin from UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn. While SPF 50 provides marginally greater protection, SPF 30 is sufficient for most daily activities. However, individuals with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or prolonged sun exposure should consider using SPF 50 for added protection."

What's The Right Way To Apply Sunscreen To Prevent Sunburns?

"The effectiveness of sunscreen heavily depends on the amount applied. Typically, most adults need about one ounce (equivalent to a shot glass) to adequately cover their entire body. Don't forget to apply sunscreen to commonly overlooked areas like the ears, neck, and tops of the feet. It's crucial to reapply sunscreen, especially after swimming, sweating excessively, or drying off with a towel. As a general guideline, reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, or more frequently during periods of intense sweating or water exposure", recommends Dr. Charu.

You've Already Got Sunburned, How Can You Treat It?

If you find yourself in a pickle after a summer day like Janhvi Kapoor, here's how you can treat the skin with expertise from WebMD.

• Cool The Area: Apply cold compresses to your skin or take a cool bath to soothe the burn.

• Treat The Skin: Gently apply a cream or gel containing ingredients such as camphor, menthol or aloe vera, ideally placed in the fridge for a few minutes before application to cool the product.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids so that you don't become dehydrated.

• See A Doctor: Depending on the severity of the sunburn, notify a doctor for the future course of treatment.

(Also Read: 4 Simple Steps To Cure A Sunburn Naturally)