Tips for Sunburned Skin

Beach vacations should be memorable, but not in the wrong way. Nothing makes you regret a vacation and have stained memories more than having a sunburn or, worse, a sunburned kid. Unfortunately, we all know that sunburns happen sometimes no matter how careful we are trying to be. So, we better know how to care for our skin when it does. Here are a few tips:
If the sunburn really hurts, The American Academy of Dermatology recommends taking ibuprofen. It will help reduce any swelling, redness and discomfort. We often have trouble sleeping when sunburned because there is no comfortable position, so the medicine should help ease out the pain a little and, hopefully, help you sleep.

Drink water: And we mean, WATER, not just any liquid. You need to keep your body hydrated and water is the easiest way to do so. Caffeinated drinks like sodas, coffees and some teas (green and black tea, for example) don’t count. And alcohol, obviously, also doesn’t count as it has a diuretic effect and can lead to dehydration.

Cool off: keep your skin hydrated by applying a cooling gel that will help soothe your skin. It provides instant relief as it helps to lower the temperature of your skin a bit.

Lotion up: choose a lotion that is unscented or formulated specifically for burned skin. Stay away from perfumed or sparkly lotions that may further irritate your skin.

Remember that that these are all remedial actions. The best way to deal with a sunburn is not dealing with one. For that, make sure you lather up on waterproof sunscreen and re-apply often. Use hats, caps, sunglasses, a t-shirt or whatever you prefer to hide from the sun and try to stay in the shade as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.