Saturday, 26 June 2010 | Author: Catherine Horgan | 
Quite often we reference the importance of protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. However, we have yet to discuss the best ways to treat a sunburn, should you be so unfortunate.
Sense + Soothe
If your skin starts to feel hot or tender to the touch, you are burning. Get out of the sun immediately. You may be tempted to reach for a spray that claims to be formulated for sunburn relief. However, if it contains benzocaine, your skin could have an adverse reaction. Instead, spread aloe-vera gel on the sunburned area. You can also soak a washcloth in cold black tea to help bring down inflammation or pour vinegar on the affected area.
Nourish + Nurture
Stay out of the sun for a few days and drink a lot of water. Your body can lose a lot of fluid when you are burned, so it's important to keep your body hydrated. In addition, you should topically hydrate parched skin by applying a moisturizer several times a day.
If you happen to peel, do not pick at it or try to scrub it off, as difficult as they may be. It will only make matters worse. Once the sunburn has subsided, consider using a moisturizer with Vitamin C in it, as this will help repair damaged skin cells.
Avoiding Future Sunburns
Planning to be in the sun for an extended period of time? Re-apply your sunscreen every hour on the hour to keep safe from UVA and UVB rays ... and from the dreaded sunburn. And don't forget those neglected body parts — feet, knees and ears!
Sense + SootheIf your skin starts to feel hot or tender to the touch, you are burning. Get out of the sun immediately. You may be tempted to reach for a spray that claims to be formulated for sunburn relief. However, if it contains benzocaine, your skin could have an adverse reaction. Instead, spread aloe-vera gel on the sunburned area. You can also soak a washcloth in cold black tea to help bring down inflammation or pour vinegar on the affected area.
Nourish + Nurture
Stay out of the sun for a few days and drink a lot of water. Your body can lose a lot of fluid when you are burned, so it's important to keep your body hydrated. In addition, you should topically hydrate parched skin by applying a moisturizer several times a day.
If you happen to peel, do not pick at it or try to scrub it off, as difficult as they may be. It will only make matters worse. Once the sunburn has subsided, consider using a moisturizer with Vitamin C in it, as this will help repair damaged skin cells.
Avoiding Future Sunburns
Planning to be in the sun for an extended period of time? Re-apply your sunscreen every hour on the hour to keep safe from UVA and UVB rays ... and from the dreaded sunburn. And don't forget those neglected body parts — feet, knees and ears!
