HOW TO SOOTHE YOUR CLIENT’S SUNBURNED SKIN

SUNBURNS: HOW DO THEY AFFECT THE SKIN?

A sunburn is a type of radiation burn caused by excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. When these rays damage skin cells, the cells release inflammatory mediators that trigger an immune response, leading to the characteristic redness, swelling and pain associated with sunburns. Sunburns are generally categorized into three degrees:

1. First Degree: This is the most common and mildest form of sunburn, characterized by redness, pain and tenderness in the affected area.
2. Second Degree: In addition to the symptoms of first-degree burns, second-degree sunburns may also cause blistering, swelling and intense pain.
3. Third Degree: The most severe type of sunburn, third-degree burns can cause extensive damage to the deeper layers of the skin, resulting in blistering, scarring and potentially serious health complications.

Skin type can also affect the severity of a sunburn. People with fair skin are more susceptible to sunburns, while those with darker skin are more likely to suffer from pigmentation disorders. Other factors that play a part in photosensitivity include age, medications, previous sun exposure and family history of skin cancer.

HOW TO ASSESS THE CONDITION OF SUNBURNED SKIN

Before providing any sunburn relief, it's important to assess the severity of the wound. Each symptom signifies a different degree of sunburn, so it's crucial to pay attention to these signs:

• Redness: Mild redness is generally associated with first-degree sunburns, while more severe reddening and swelling may indicate second or third-degree burns.
• Pain: First-degree sunburns are usually accompanied by tenderness and discomfort, while second and third-degree burns can cause intense pain.
• Blistering: The presence of blisters is a sign of a second or third-degree burn and may require medical attention.

Peeling: As the skin begins to improve, peeling is common in all degrees of sunburns.

Skin temperature and texture can also indicate severity. If the skin feels hot and is accompanied by fever or chills, it may be a severe sunburn that requires immediate medical attention. Take the time to discuss your client's discomfort levels to tailor your sunburn relief treatment accordingly.

STEPS FOR IMMEDIATE SUNBURN RELIEF

As a skincare specialist, you have the knowledge and skills to alleviate your client’s sunburn. However, it's also important to set realistic expectations. While you can provide sunburn relief, the wound may take a few days to fully recover. Be upfront and honest about the recovery process to avoid disappointment or frustration.

Here are some steps to perform in-clinic that can provide immediate relief.

1. COOL AND CALM THE SKIN

The first step is to cool down the affected area to soothe the burning sensation. Apply a cold compress to the area for 15 – 20 minutes. You can use a clean towel soaked in cool water or wrap ice cubes in a cloth. Make sure to avoid direct contact with the skin to prevent further irritation.

Next, cleanse the skin with a gentle, cooling cleanser to remove any dirt or oil that may have accumulated. GlyMed Plus Foaming Cleanser with Amino Acids is a great product for this step. With soothing aloe vera, balancing botanicals and powerful amino acids to combat environmental damage, this product will refresh and nourish your client's skin.

2. TARGET INFLAMMATION

Once the skin is clean, you can use treatment products to target inflammation. However, make sure to avoid any harsh or abrasive products as they can irritate the already-sensitive skin. Instead, look for recovery products like Rejuvenating Peptide Masque. This masque uses Vitamin C and an amino acid complex to combat inflammation and antioxidant protection to prevent further damage.

3. HYDRATE AND MOISTURIZE

When skin is sunburned, it loses hydration rapidly due to damaged cells and increased permeability. This moisture loss can exacerbate discomfort and delay recovery. After treatment, balance the skin with Comfort Cream with Aloe Vera. This moisturizer will immediately soothe the skin while also providing hydration and essential nutrients.

Hydrated skin is not only more supple and resilient but also supports the skin's natural barrier function, helping to fend off potential infections. This step is crucial and can also help reduce peeling.

ONGOING CARE AND MAINTENANCE

After in-clinic treatment for sunburn relief, your clients can also find ways to reduce discomfort at home. Here are some tips you can share with them:

• Avoid Further Sun Exposure: Advise your clients to stay out of the sun or cover up before going outside.
• Use Gentle Cleansing Techniques: Encourage your clients to use a gentle cleanser and avoid hot water or scrubs as these can further irritate the skin. Any harsh exfoliants should also be left out of their routine until the sunburn has recovered fully.
• Utilize Advanced Professional Treatments: Once the skin has improved, you can offer advanced treatments such as microdermabrasion or chemical peels to help reduce peeling and restore the skin's texture and tone. Just make sure to wait until the sunburn is completely gone before performing any abrasive treatments.
• Keep The Skin Hydrated: Moisturizers and hydrating products aren't just for in-clinic treatment. Encourage your clients to hydrate their skin throughout the summer with products like our CBD Therapeutic Balm. This body balm soothes and cools the skin while also providing deep hydration and nourishment.
• Continue Applying Sun Protection: After the sunburn has subsided, it's essential to continue using sunscreen daily to protect the skin from any further damage.

WHAT LEVEL OF SUNSCREEN DO CLIENTS NEED?

Choosing the right level of protection is vital for preventing sun damage. Advise your clients to use broad-spectrum sunscreens, which protect against UVA and UVB rays, and to select an SPF of 15 or above if they spend extended periods in the sun. Additionally, remind them to reapply sunscreen every two hours for full effectiveness.

For maximum hydration and protection benefits, recommend GlyMed's broad-spectrum SPF products. Each is FDA-approved and also formulated to moisturize the skin. For example, Hydrating Protection Gel with SPF 30 boasts powerful antioxidants and soothing botanicals to provide preventative anti-aging benefits while Oil-Free Protective Moisturizer with SPF 15 hydrates and protects the skin, leaving a lightweight matte appearance.

Providing sunburn relief and professional care to your clients should be a top priority. By following these steps and using our pharmaceutical-grade products, you can help your clients ease the discomfort of their sunburned skin. 

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