How To Treat A Sunburn
August 1, 2009 by Star Stevenson
Filed under Skin Care
Sometimes no matter how much effort you put into protecting your skin from the sun, you end up getting a little toasty or burnt anyway. So what do you do about that sunburn? There are a few sunburn treatments to help soothe and heal your tender skin.
(Image: Newscom)
1. If you think you’re about to get a sunburn or your skin is as that really red/pink stage, get out of the sun. Prolonging your exposure will only make things worse.
2. Inspect your skin for blistering. If you develop blisters on your skin that means that area of your skin has been completely damaged. Small blisters are usually fine to treat at home; just leave them alone and do not rupture them. However, if the area where the blister has formed is the size of your back or arms, it’s time to seek medical attention.
3. Apply a after-sun lotions containing cooling agents like aloe vera and hydrocortisone cream. Doing so will keep the skin moist, cool and help with peeling. Do not apply oil based products or regular lotions that can trap the heat and clog the area.
4. Take some OTC meds like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease the sting.
5. Wear loose clothing. Wearing skin tight clothing will only irritate your skin and cause additional pain.
6. If you notice any excessive swelling on your hands, feet or face, seek medical attention.
7. Keep the area of the burn cool. Use cool compresses such as a washcloth or towel damped with cold water. You can also take a cool shower to soothe your skin.
8. Drink water! When people get a sunburn they are usually also dehydrated.
9. Avoid soap or harsh soaps when you have a sunburn as they may irritate your skin.
10. If you develop a fever, seek medical attention right away. You might be suffering from heat stroke as well!
Getting a sunburn is not attractive. You’re usually in a lot of pain and not feeling your best. Who wants to deal with that when everyone else is having fun? So, before you go out ask yourself these questions.
Did you apply enough sunscreen prior to going out?
Did you re-apply your sunscreen after a couple hours or after you toweled off and/or were sweating?
If the answer to those questions is no, then you didn’t adequately protect your skin. Apply more sunscreen and keep the bottle or tube in your bag for touch ups!
