Does Drinking Water Help Sunburn Go Away?
Sunburn can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. It occurs when the skin is overexposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, causing damage to the skin. This damage can cause redness, swelling, and even blisters.
What causes sunburn?
When our skin is exposed to the sun, it produces a pigment called melanin, which helps in protecting our skin from UV radiation. However, when we are exposed to too much UV radiation, our skin cannot produce enough melanin, resulting in a sunburn. People with lighter skin tones are more susceptible to sunburn as they have less melanin in their skin.
How can we treat sunburn?
Sunburns can be painful and can take several days to heal. Some home remedies, such as applying a cold compress, aloe vera, or taking a cool bath, can help soothe the pain and inflammation. However, one simple and effective way to help sunburns heal faster is by drinking plenty of water.
How does drinking water help sunburn go away?
Drinking water is essential for our overall health, and it also plays a crucial role in healing sunburns. When our skin is sunburnt, it loses a significant amount of water, causing it to become dehydrated. This dehydration can make the sunburned skin look dry, flaky, and even more painful. Drinking water helps to replenish the lost fluids in the body and promotes the healing process. It also helps to cool down the body and reduce the discomfort caused by sunburn.
Moreover, staying hydrated allows the skin to maintain its elasticity, which is vital for the healing process. It also helps to flush out toxins from the body that may contribute to inflammation caused by sunburn. Drinking water also helps to keep the skin hydrated from the inside out, making the healing process more efficient.
How much water should you drink?
The amount of water needed varies from person to person, based on factors such as body weight, activity level, and climate. However, the general recommendation is to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. For sunburns, it is advised to increase your water intake to help your body heal faster.
Other tips to help soothe sunburns
In addition to drinking plenty of water, there are some other tips that can help alleviate the discomfort caused by sunburns. These include:
- Applying a cold compress: Placing a cold, damp cloth or a pack of ice on the sunburned area can provide instant relief from the discomfort.
- Moisturizing: Applying a gentle moisturizer, such as aloe vera, can help to keep the sunburned skin hydrated and promote healing.
- Taking pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help to reduce the pain and inflammation caused by sunburns.
- Wearing loose, breathable clothing: Tight clothing can irritate sunburned skin, so it is recommended to wear loose, lightweight clothing until the sunburn heals.
- Staying out of the sun: It is crucial to avoid further exposure to the sun until your sunburn has completely healed. If necessary, use a sun protection product with a high SPF.
In conclusion
In short, drinking water is essential for our overall health and also plays a crucial role in helping sunburns heal faster. It helps to replenish lost fluids, flush out toxins, and maintain skin elasticity, making the healing process more efficient. It is also essential to take other necessary precautions while treating sunburns, such as staying out of the sun and wearing loose clothing. Remember to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if your sunburn is severe.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your healthcare provider for any specific questions or concerns regarding sunburns and hydration.
