Mid-July, the sun is shining, we may even be on vacation in Europe, wherever possible, or on a balcony. No matter where we are spending this summer, it's not just the southern summer sun shining down on us with its UV rays. At the lake, beach or outdoor pool, I am seeing more and more sunburns on our skin. Here you can find out why sunburn can be quite dangerous for our skin and what we can do to help it recover or avoid the bright red discoloration in the first place:
1. sun-damaged skin - risk factor
2. too late for sun cream - 5 tips for sunburn
3. well protected throughout the sunshine year
1. sun-damaged skin - risk factor
We usually learn very early on that too much sun is not at all healthy for our skin. We also learn that skin cancer can develop from too much UV radiation. But what exactly happens when the skin is damaged by the sun and why does it turn red?
When our skin absorbs UV radiation, energy is released. In the first instance, the pigment cells in the epidermis react by producing more pigment, which is passed on to the skin cells in order to Protect. This is how the skin's own protection works. If UV exposure is too long, the burnt skin cells die off, the skin becomes thinner and inflamed - hence the red coloration. However, the skin's protective barrier also becomes thinner and moisture is lost as the cells die off.
Sun exposure not only causes inflammation, but can also cause DNA damage, which increases the risk of skin cancer. The connective tissue also suffers, as the collagen fibers lose their ability to function and die off. Summary: Sunburn should be avoided at all costs - but sometimes things turn out differently than you think.
2. too late for sun cream - 5 tips for sunburn
Aloe Vera Spray
As the picture above suggests, aloe vera is your helper in times of need! And the spray is perfect for in between! For an extra boost of freshness, you can also put the spray in the fridge and simply spray it on your skin and hair from time to time throughout the day, as they also lose valuable moisture in the hot summer sun. It's also a great way to cool down, whether you're sunbathing, strolling or working. The added moisture from the aloe vera revitalizes the skin and helps it to maintain its own moisture balance.
Don't forget to drink
A water bottle should be your best friend and constant companion, especially in warm temperatures. 3-4 liters a day are recommended. Sufficient fluid in our body ensures that the organs can work better, bodily processes run more smoothly and the skin is also better moisturized and can thus protect itself against viruses, bacteria and UV radiation Protect . But not so well that you could go out without sun cream. The regeneration of the skin in the event of sunburn can also take place more easily if there is sufficient moisture in the skin.
If you're like me and you forget to drink or simply don't feel that thirsty, it might help to fill water into carafes or bottles, add organic oranges and lemons, sprigs of lavender and mint with natural flavors. If it tastes good, it will be empty sooner than you think!
Aloe Vera gel
The #1 rule of sunburn care: cool & moisturize. Aloe vera gel is the perfect companion and a real fountain of moisture. In summer, you can store it in the fridge, just like the spray, to enhance the cooling effect. The supply of moisture from the outside can rebalance the skin barrier and stabilize the moisture balance on its own. Ideally, you should apply the gel generously to your tanned skin and leave it on. If you like and feel that your skin needs a little more, you can also apply it several times with some time in between apply.
Rosehip Seed Oil
An absolute hero when it comes to supporting skin regeneration. And supporting this regeneration process as well as possible is essential for sun-damaged skin. Rosehip Seed Oil Thanks to the vitamin A it contains, the skin cream boosts regeneration and protects the skin from DNA damage caused by sun exposure. Vitamin E and carotenoids ward off free radicals that can lead to cell damage and Treat antioxidative . The oil therefore helps to soothe sunburn, protect the cells Protect and provide the skin with important nutrients and moisture. You can also read more details about this in this article.
Top tip: Prevention!
Of course, it is important to prevent sunburn. Healthy and well-moisturized skin is the first step. A good sun cream with high UVA and UVB protection is the second. Our tip: Apply AM aloe vera gel to your skin before sun cream to give it a good dose of moisture first. This strengthens the skin's natural protective function and makes it easier to spread the sun cream on the still slightly damp skin.