The Best Way to Treat Sunburn

The best way to treat sunburn is not to get one. What makes you think you’ll get one this year? You’re done something wrong. I have to repeat things that should be common knowledge, so bear with me. Don’t go out into the sun during the hours of its greatest intensity – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. I have a feeling this is a rule observed more in its breach. Always wear sunscreen with an SPF – sun protection factor – of 1.5. If you are very sensitive to sunlight, use one with an SPF of 30. Apply it 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply it at least every two hours. Each application requires about 1 ounce. If you go into the water or are sweating heavily, apply the sunscreen more frequently. With a sunburn, in about three hours after exposure, the skin reddens and becomes painful and hot. Taking aspirin relieves pain and can lessen the damage done to the skin. Don’t give aspirin to young children – they can take Tylenol. Cool baths or cool compresses make a person more comfortable. Apply a skin moisturizer, but don’t use butter or petrolatum. If blisters form, don’t break them. If they’re extensive, see a doctor.