We say it over and over again… wear sunscreen! Reapply! But still, someone will get a sunburn. And it will hurt and be uncomfortable. So what do you do?
For the pain, you can take anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve). However, do not give aspirin to children!
To cool your skin:
- Spray Avene Spring Water ($14) on the area. For an even cooler feeling, keep your spring water in the fridge until you are ready to use it!
- Take a cool shower or bath
- Apply cold wet towels to area
Other tips:
- You can put a little vinegar in bath or soak a washcloth in diluted vinegar and place on sunburn to soothe burning, store the soaked compound or wet towels in fridge so it is cool.
- Try an oatmeal bath
- Sprinkle sheets with powder or cornstarch to prevent chafing
- Completely avoid additional sun exposure
If large blisters develop, you may take a clean needle to poke a small hole for drainage, but do not disrupt the skin or peel the skin off the top of the blister.
As skin heals use a thick moisturizer (we love Elta Intense Moisturizer, $12) or something like Vaseline or Aquaphor to keep skin moist, soothe itching and prevent scarring. Avene Cicalfate ($28) is also a good option.
