I hope you all had a fun and safe Memorial Day. It was such a nice weekend around here, lots of sun and blue skies… but unfortunately it also led to sunburns for some of us who forgot to reapply sunblock after being in the water.
So what do you do if you forgot to apply sunblock, or didn’t reapply (a very important step in sun protection) and now have angry red skin? Here are some tips to help soothe your sunburn.
1. Take anti-inflammatory support supplement like Pathway Cox 2 Support. The pain from a sunburn is usually worst between 6 and 48 hours after sun exposure.
2. If your skin is not blistering, moisturizing cream may be applied to relieve discomfort. Store the moisturizing cream in the refrigerator between applications as the coolness will aid in comfort to your skin. Aloe Vera Gel is wonderful and soothing. Apply liberally!
3. Apply cool compresses to the burned skin. Cold washcloths work well.
4. Avoid hot showers or bathes. Take a lukewarm bath instead with colloidal oatmeal , only if there is no blistering of the skin. It will aid in anti-inflammatory relief and act as a moisturizer for your skin.
5. Avoid the sun! Clothing is the best protection while healing – long sleeves, hats, etc.
6. Avoid products that contain benzocaine and lidocaine. They may actually create more itching and inflammation by causing an allergic contact dermatitis.
7. If your sunburned skin develops blisters, resist the urge to pop them. The blister cover is actually protecting your raw skin underneath.
If you are blistering or have a fever consider going to your doctor. Keep in mind that these steps will not prevent the risk of skin cancer… they will help soothe the pain and itching from a sunburn.
Source: Mayo Clinic
