by kelly
/ June, 22 2016 01:30
It's officially summer and with warmer weather comes more time spent outdoors in the sun. While I'm sure you are all lathering up on the sunscreen - sometimes we may forget - and we can get a sunburn. Painful! So here are five tips to help relieve some of the pain.
Want more tips? Check out our Suncare Smarts series.
First things first - at the first sign of a sunburn get out of the sun and preferably head inside, then try one of these tips recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the Skin Cancer Foundation.
1. Cool It Down
You'll want to counteract the heat from the burn with a cold compress, a cold shower or a cold bath. Just be careful. Don't take too long of a shower or bath or use a harsh soap because they could dry the skin which might further irritate the burn.
2. Moisturize
After you get out of the shower or bath gently pat dry but leave some water on the skin. Then apply a moisturizer to help trap that water. Use a moisturizer with aloe vera or soy to help soothe the sunburn.
If an area of skin is particularly sensitive you can apply hydrocortisone cream.
3. Reduce the Inflammation
Consider taking aspirin or ibuprofen to decrease any swelling, redness or discomfort.
4. Drinks Lots of Water
A sunburn draws fluid away from the rest of the body and to the skin’s surface. As a result you may become dehydrated. Drink extra water to rehydrate your body (like this little puppy in the photo).
5. Take Extra Care
Try and stay out of the sun and wear loose, soft, breathable clothing so it doesn't rub against your sunburn.
If you have blisters on the skin don't scratch or pop them - allow the blisters to heal. Seek medical help if you have severe blistering, fever, chills, are woozy or are confused.
Your skin will eventually heal from the sunburn but don't make getting them a habit. I mean who would want to? Plus repeated sunburns increase your risk for premature skin aging and skin cancer. Stay protected this summer - find easy sun protection tips in our blog post: Top 5 Sun Protection Tips.
