Be Smart When Treating a Sunburn

To help heal sunburned skin, take cool baths or showers to ease pain.  Pat yourself dry, leaving a bit of water on your skin.  Apply moisturizer, choosing one that contains aloe vera.  If an area feels particularly uncomfortable, you can apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.  (Note:  Do not treat sunburn with “-caine” products, such as benzocaine, as these may irritate skin or cause an allergic reaction.)

Consider taking aspirin or ibuprofen to help reduce swelling, redness and discomfort.  If your skin blisters, clean it gently and allow blisters to heal.  Don’t pop them.  Topical antibiotics may be necessary.  Drink extra water to help prevent dehydration.

Source:  American Academy of Dermatology