Treating a sunburn
Hopefully, you practiced good sun safety this weekend and didn't end up with a painful sunburn. Staying in the shade, avoiding the hottest part of the day, wearing protective clothing, and slapping on the sunscreen are all good ways to keep your skin safe from the hot summertime sun.If you did forget the sunscreen or stay out a little too long, however, it's always good to know how to soothe that painful burn. About.com has some good advice, including:
- Take a cool shower or bath.
- Check for blisters, which indicate second degree burns. If the burn covers a large portion of the body (like a whole arm), seek medical attention right away.
- Apply aloe to the affected area -- NOT butter or oil.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief.
- Wear natural, loose, breathable fabrics like cotton until you heal.
- Stay out of the sun, which will only make your burn worse.
Sunburns are painful and, in severe situations, can be serious. Refresh yourself on sun safety rules before the hottest days of summer arrive, and find a sunscreen that's right for you at the Environmental Working Group's database.
Gallery: Sunscreens recommended by the Environmental Working Group
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