Everybody Needs Some Sunshine In Their Lives
by Sheila McCormick on July 8th, 2009
Loading ...When the weather turns warm and it is only natural to step out into the sunshine and soak up the soothing rays. A certain amount of sunshine is good for us because it triggers a biochemical process in the body that leads to the production of Vitamin D. Too much sun, however, can lead to serious discomfort and permanent damage to the skin.
Unfortunately, the commercial sunscreens on the market that are meant to protect us are loaded with toxic chemicals. To avoid exposing yourself and your family to these chemicals, choose natural sunscreen products. Mango butter, aloe vera gel, emu, coconut and sesame oils are all effective in preventing sunburn when used properly. Look for natural alternatives to chemical sunscreens.
In addition to sunscreen there are some common sense measures that will go a long way toward sunburn prevention. Avoid being outdoors in direct sun when the sun is strongest, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you can’t avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day, seek shade. (Bear in mind that invisible rays can reflect up toward you from the ground so you will still need to use some skin protection.) Be especially careful if it is windy. Balmy breezes may disguise the fact that you are getting sunburned. Wide brimmed or floppy hats will help prevent sunburn on sensitive facial and neck areas.
If despite your best intentions you do get sunburned, use natural substances to relieve the pain. Dampen a washcloth with cool water and apply it to the area, or take a cool bath or shower. Adding some baking soda to your bathwater can help to soothe your skin. Pure aloe gel is also very soothing to sunburned skin. The fresher the gel, the better it works. You can even use a real aloe plant. Cut off a spear, split it open, and rub the clear gel from the inside of the leaf on the sunburn. You can also mix 10 ounces of non-fat dry milk, 2 tablespoons salt and 25 ounces water. Saturate a cloth with the mixture and apply to sunburn for 20 minutes. Drink plenty of water. Sunburn can be dehydrating, causing fluid loss through your skin.
Leave blisters alone, if they form. The fluid inside acts as a protective agent for your skin. Breaking the blisters will slow healing and increase the risk of infection.
In recent years, some people have become irrationally afraid of the sun because of dire warnings in the media. Don’t let the fear of getting sunburned keep you from benefiting from Mother Nature’s healing rays. Mentally and physically, everyone needs some sunshine in their lives!
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