Tips for safe fun in the sun!
It's important to wear sunscreen. But sunscreen may not always be enough. Try combining any of the following tips to find a method that works for you. These steps can help you protect your skin, even on overcast days:
Avoid or limit your time in the sun.
Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, we recommend, Elina Organics Sun Day Sunscreen spf 35.
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
Stay in the shade when the sun is the strongest (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.)
Cover up with clothing.
Wear a hat and sunglasses.
Make sure you do not burn.
In the unfortunate event you or your loved ones do get burned, here are some tips and items you may want to pack:
Elina Organics Skin Recovery Protective Healing Cream.
Standard Process Calcium Lactate - Among other things this wonder supplement reduces inflammation and supports normal function of cells and cell membranes.
Standard Process Cataplex F Tablets - These tablets are loaded with essential fatty acids helping to transfer calcium to tissues aiding and preventing sun burn, sun sensitivity and sun poisoning.
Aloe Vera gel or liquid with no additives - apply several times a day to unbroken skin and allow to dry.
Apple Cider Vinegar- Add 1-2 cups to tepid bath water and soak for 30 minutes. Alternatively, combine 1 part ACV to 7 parts water and use this mixture for a compress.
Essential Oils- Peppermint essential oil is cooling and analgesic, making it a great choice for painful, burned skin. Lavender essential oil supports a healthy inflammatory response and microbial balance, and can speed healing. Consider other oils such as Rose geranium, helichrysum, and chamomile. Dilute oils prior to application. Consider using aloe gel or creating a spritz by combining 20-40 drops of essential oil with 1 tablespoon ACV and 5 ounces of water in a spray bottle.
Herbs- Soothe sunburn with herbs that are cooling, soothing, high in tannins, and promote wound healing. Consider green and black tea, plantain, comfrey, Calendula, St. John's wort, witch hazel, chamomile, and lavender. Use these herbs in compresses, sprays, salves, and infused in vinegar.
Baths- Baths with common household ingredients can also alleviate redness and burning. Try an oatmeal bath by placing 1-2 cups finely ground oatmeal into an old sock, tying it off, and soaking with it in tepid bath water for 15-30 minutes. Baking soda is another option. Pour 1-2 cups baking soda into a tepid bath and soak for 30 minutes.
These methods work well alone and in combination. Cold compresses and baths are helpful in the early stages for immediate relief. Once the burn has cooled, salves and lotions can be great for healing skin.
To support healing from the inside out, eat plenty of foods high in the antioxidant Vitamin C, such as fruits and veggies, to combat free radical damage. Finally, stay hydrated to replenish lost moisture and support recovery.
Safe and Healthy Travels! ~ Keeley Lore, Owner of Naturally Radiant & Naturally Radiant Practitioner