Soothe a bad sunburn by taking immediate action to cool and hydrate your skin, and then using the right topical treatments.
Immediate Actions:
- Get out of the sun: The first step is to move to a cool, shaded area or indoors.
- Cool the skin: Take a cool (not cold) shower or bath, or apply cool compresses to the affected area. This helps reduce inflammation and pain.
Effective Treatments:
- Moisturize: Apply a light lotion or gel moisturizer. Avoid petroleum-based products, as these can trap heat and worsen the burn. Opt for products containing aloe vera or soy, which have antioxidant properties that promote healing. [Source: Dr. Zubek, 07-Sept-2023]
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. [Source: Mayo Clinic]
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help your body recover. [Source: Mayo Clinic]
Things to Avoid:
- Petroleum-based moisturizers: These can trap heat and make the sunburn worse. [Source: Dr. Zubek, 07-Sept-2023]
- Breaking blisters: Leave blisters intact to prevent infection. [Source: Mayo Clinic]
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While most sunburns can be treated at home, severe burns require professional medical attention. Seek help if you experience:
- Severe blistering: Extensive blistering indicates a second-degree burn.
- High fever: A fever could suggest a more serious infection.
- Signs of infection: Increased pain, swelling, pus, or red streaks from the burn area signal a possible infection.
Remember, prevention is key! Always protect your skin from excessive sun exposure using sunscreen with a high SPF, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
