How to prevent sunburn peeling

We all know the pain of sunburn and the dreaded peeling that follows. But worry no longer because we've pulled together our tips and tricks to keep your skin looking smooth and flake-free. Below, we discuss some easy and effective ways to prevent sunburn from peeling. From hydrating your skin with refreshing drinks to indulging in soothing aloe vera – we've got you covered. So read on to get holiday ready, and let's dive into the world of sunburn prevention and say goodbye to peeling!

What causes your skin to sunburn and peel?

Sunburn and peeling occur when your skin is exposed to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These harmful rays penetrate the skin, damaging its DNA and ultimately triggering an inflammatory response. As such, this leads to redness, pain, and, eventually, the shedding of damaged skin cells. Once peeling has begun, it’s a sign that your skin needs to heal, and the necessary precautions must be taken to prevent further skin damage.

What does sunburn look like?

Sunburn typically appears as red, inflamed skin that feels hot and tender to the touch. The affected area may become increasingly painful, and in severe cases, blisters may form. Sunburn also becomes incredibly itchy and will begin to peel as the damaged skin tries to heal itself.

That said, the level of sun damage that occurs is dependent on the individual's skin type and the level of sun exposure. It's important to recognise the signs of sunburn and take immediate steps to soothe and treat the affected skin to prevent further discomfort and damage.

How to prevent your sunburn from peeling

Peeling can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but with the right prevention strategies, you can reduce or even prevent it altogether. By taking proactive steps such as protecting your skin with sunscreen, seeking shade during peak sun hours, staying hydrated and using soothing aftersun treatments, you can help your skin heal and maintain its healthy appearance. Take a look below at our top tips for preventing sunburn.

Apply moisturiser or aloe vera

To prevent your sunburn from peeling, immediately provide your skin with the nourishment and hydration it needs. One effective way to do this is by applying our coconut body butter or aloe vera gel to the affected areas.

But how does body butter and aloe vera help sunburn?

These products are a superb way to help replenish lost moisture and promote skin healing, while aloe vera has soothing properties that can reduce inflammation and provide relief. Regularly applying these nourishing products to your sunburned skin can keep it hydrated and minimise the peeling process. For the most effective relief and recovery, always opt for moisturisers or aloe vera gels specifically formulated for sunburned skin.

Drink water to hydrate your skin

Getting sunburnt is one of the leading causes of dehydrated skin, causing dryness and increased peeling. One simple and effective way to prevent your sunburn from peeling is to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. In fact, hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to peeling. So, ensuring you drink enough water throughout the day can help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

As an extra precaution, make it a habit to carry a water bottle with you, and aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily.

Take a cool shower or bath

Taking a cool shower or bath is another soothing and effective way to prevent sunburn from peeling. This is because the cool water helps lower the skin's temperature and reduce inflammation, consequently providing relief to sunburned areas. It also helps to hydrate the skin and prevent excessive dryness, which can contribute to peeling.

That said, when taking a cool shower or bath, always avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs that can irritate the damaged skin. Instead, opt for gentle, moisturising cleansers and pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

Apply an anti-inflammatory cream

A quick solution to preventing sunburn from peeling is to apply an anti-inflammatory cream to the affected areas. These aftersun creams contain ingredients that help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, minimising the chances of peeling. Opt for our creams that contain ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile or hydrocortisone, which have calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

Avoid irritating the skin

Once sunburn has occurred, it’s crucial to avoid further irritating the skin and causing more damage. Resist scratching, picking or peeling off any loose or flaking skin, as it can prolong the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

Additionally, refrain from using harsh soaps, exfoliants or products containing alcohol, as they can strip the skin of its natural moisture and exacerbate peeling. Instead, opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers specifically formulated for sensitive or sunburned skin. You have to treat your skin with kindness and patience to promote a faster recovery and minimise peeling.

Cover your skin to prevent further sunburn

But perhaps the more obvious and self-explanatory option is to keep your skin covered with lightweight, loose-fitting clothing or accessories – to prevent further burning. Clothing acts as a physical barrier between your sunburned skin and the sun's harmful rays, helping to protect it from further damage.

And while wearing more clothing out in the sun may seem uncomfortable, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that provide coverage without trapping heat. Or, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

How long does sunburn peeling last?

The duration of the peeling stage depends on the severity of the sunburn, as well as individual factors, including skin type and how fair one may be. Typically, peeling occurs within a few days to a week after the initial sunburn. Then, the peeling process may last for around one to two weeks. If your sunburn has blistered and is considered very severe, this process may last much longer.

That said, it's important to note that peeling is a natural part of the healing process, as the damaged skin cells must shed in order to make way for new, healthy skin. Taking the necessary steps is a highly effective way to reduce the irritation of this stage.

Peeling is a deeply frustrating and painful experience that is bound to taint the end of the holiday. However, by staying hydrated, applying our moisturisers or aloe vera, avoiding further skin irritation and practising gentle skincare, you can support the healing process and reduce the likelihood of excessive peeling. So, prioritise sun protection and take care of your skin to maintain its health and radiance for years to come.