First degree burns are only harmful to the skin's surface, the epidermis, therefore they involve minimal tissue damage. Nevertheless, they are red and painful to touch. The skin's surface is painful, red, and swollen. Sunburn is a good example of a first degree burn, and the most common case. Although these burns are not too dangerous at this level, they are able to cause more extreme problems over time, for example cancer. It is important to avoid these types of burns, however, if you find yourself victim, it is necessary to recognize the symptoms and treat the burns properly.

Symptoms of Sunburn and other First Degree Burns

*Reddening of the skin is the first visible sign, however, it usually doesn't show until the next day.

*Dry Skin occurs due to the skin being stripped from its lipids. It is imperative to hydrate first degree skin burns.

*Skin is painful to touch. The pain can last for 48-72 hours and then decreases.

*In the middle stage of the healing process, peeling occurs.

Tips for Sun Burns and other First Degree Burns

If the skin is not broken, put the burn into cold water. You can do this periodically using a cold compress, or by running cold water over the affected area. This response can decrease inflammation and lessen pain. It can also be very soothing to use a spray bottle to spritz the affected area with cool water. Also, it is important to drink plenty of fluids.

Avoid exposure to the sun at all times. This is the most important as to not damage the skin further. After a burn your skin is extremely vulnerable and sun exposure could lead to more tissue damage and eventually other problems such as premature aging.

Avoid the sun as well as apply UV protection with an SPF of 35 or higher. Reapply sunscreen every 3-4 hours if you find yourself out in the sun. It is recommended to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your facial skin, the most delicate and vulnerable to permanent damage. Avoid pressure and friction on the affected area during the healing process. This will prevent further pain as well as allow the skin to breathe and react naturally to the burn. When the area becomes itchy because of peeling, do not scratch it. Excessive scratching during the peeling phase of the healing process could damage new healthy skin cells being produced beneath the burn. Instead you can wash the area and apply a moisturizing cream.

Because of the commonality of sunburn, there are many options in treatment. Aloe Vera gels are a common soothing remedy. These gels can help reduce inflammation and pain. Other natural skin care products that are suggested are creams that contain the secretion of snails. This product is effective in the process of healing as it triggers skin rejuvenation.

An effective sun damaged skin treatment has been produced by Bioskincare. Bioskinbalm is a skin care cream that is able to rejuvenate skin by reducing damaged cells and working with antioxidants. Moisturizing and rejuvenating skin cells are the most vital treatments when dealing with first degree burns, both of which are available in this skin repair cream.