Sometimes, sunburn can result in light or dark patches on the skin, sticking together and forming large lesions that appear to have no pigment or resemble a very dark skin tone. Seeing a dermatologist may be the best initial course of action, but if you can't go to the emergency room or see a doctor right now, there are home treatments to prevent “sunspots” on your skin.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Treating blemishes
Step 1. Use vitamin E oil
It is necessary to use oil, not vitamin E lotion. Apply it to the skin morning and night.
- Since vitamin E oil is easily absorbed through the epidermal layer of the skin, it is a good choice for treating damage caused by ultraviolet rays.
- Continue treatment for one year whenever you go out and stay in the sun. Any residual points (under the skin) that were not seen will be healed, protecting you in the future.
Step 2. Use creams with sulfur or selenium
These ingredients can help treat the fungus “tinea versicolor” (causing pityriasis versicolor), which is most responsible for white patches on the skin.
- This fungus is actually a microorganism that acts as a “sunscreen” for the skin; prolonged exposure to sunlight can make it more visible. However, there is no need to worry, as all people naturally have yeast on their skin, turning it into a very common fungus.
- Selenium is found in many anti-dandruff shampoos, while sulfur creams – which are mostly cheap – should be prescribed by dermatologists. Apply the product to the skin, leave it for five to ten minutes and remove.
Step 3. Try antifungal creams
As these blemishes are usually caused by yeasts on the skin, simple antifungals – such as those used in the treatment of athlete's foot – should be enough to minimize the yeast and blemishes, consequently.
Another option is to apply a hydrocortisone cream (1%) to antifungal creams. Some people report greater efficiency through this method
Step 4. Apply self tanning agents to white spots
Since these spots have less pigmentation, applying artificial pigments can help them blend in with the rest of your skin.
Try applying self-tanners with a cotton swab, filling stains more accurately
Step 5. Go to a dermatologist
A procedure called Intense Pulsed Light can be used to treat not just the white spots, but the entire sun-damaged region, allowing the skin tone to become more even.
If you do not have a dermatologist, ask for a referral from a general practitioner or look for a professional associated with your health insurance
Part 2 of 3: Treating sunburns and sunspots
Step 1. Stay hydrated
As with any sunburn, it's critical to keep your body hydrated. Drink water or sports drinks to replenish electrolytes.
- Dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, headaches and little need to urinate are some of the signs of dehydration. It is even more possible in children, so take your child to the doctor if he has these symptoms.
- Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Drink more when out in the sun, and beware of heat stroke.
Step 2. Go to the doctor
The white spots that appear after sunburn are – in some cases – guttate hypomelanosis, something totally harmless, being just a simple discoloration of the skin, caused by sun damage. Doctors may prescribe topical steroids that eventually improve the condition of the blemishes.
Step 3. Use home remedies
Many are surprised by the usefulness of various easily acquired items in the treatment of uncomfortable sunburns. Cooked and cooled oats, yogurt and tea bags dipped in cold water are all options that can be applied to burned skin, providing relief.
Applying coconut oil directly to sunburn not only alleviates the symptoms, it also helps it heal
Part 3 of 3: Preventing blemishes from appearing
Step 1. Don't be out in the sun
This Step also helps to treat blemishes that have already appeared after being exposed to the sun. The symptoms of prolonged exposure to the sun usually go away within seven to ten days, but the best “defence” against them is to stay out of exposure and actively protect yourself against the sun's harmful rays.
Ultraviolet rays are more intense between 10:00 and 16:00. It is important to avoid the sun during this period
Step 2. Use sunscreen every day
If you can, buy the broad spectrum products with at least 30 FPS. Broad-spectrum shields block type A and type B ultraviolet rays; apply it at least 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Sunburns can occur after just 15 minutes in the sun, turning the application of sunscreens into something very important, especially when being proactive in relation to taking care of the sun's rays.
- White spots cannot be 100% “fixed” as the pigment has been removed from the skin. The best option is to prevent them from spreading, protecting the skin before being exposed to the sun.
Step 3. Wear clothing that protects your skin, including caps, hats and glasses
The more the skin is covered, the less exposure to harmful sunlight.
Many people are not even aware of the following fact; the sun can also damage the eyes. About 20% of all cataract cases are directly related to ultraviolet exposure and damage. In addition, the sun also causes macular degeneration, one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States
Step 4. Review your medications
If you are taking medication, read everyone's package insert. Some drugs are known to cause even more sensitivity to ultraviolet A and B rays, leaving the patient at greater risk for burns and blemishes by failing to protect the skin.
- Some of these remedies include certain types of antibiotics, antidepressants, acne-fighting, and even diuretics. These are just some examples; always read the medicine package insert.
- If you no longer have the medicine package insert, ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you.
Tips
- Taking multivitamin tablets can also help keep your skin healthy.
- It is important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with protection from ultraviolet A and B rays, reapplying frequently when exposed to the sun.
- Consult a pharmacist and ask which oils and multivitamins can help improve your skin.