How to Treat a Sunburn

Sunburn is caused by exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Try to avoid extended periods in the sun without using sunscreen or other protection for your skin. However, if you do find yourself with a sunburn, there are many ways to treat the pain, inflammation and blisters of a sunburn.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Aloe vera
• Noxema
• Ibuprofen

1. Take a cool bath or shower as soon as possible after getting a sunburn. The cool water will open the pores of your skin and the heat will escape. Drip dry or use a very soft cloth to dry your skin. Using a towel may irritate sunburned skin.
2. Apply aloe vera directly to your sunburn. Aloe vera can be found in many lotions and creams, but it's best to use the aloe vera plant itself. Crack open a piece of the aloe vera plant, and rub the clear gel over your entire sunburn. The aloe vera will cool your skin and reduce inflammation. If your skin becomes blistered, apply aloe vera several times a day to help aid in healing your burned skin.
3. Get Noxema deep cleansing cream and apply liberally to your sunburn throughout the day. The cream will cool down your skin and help the burn to heal. If your skin begins to peel after a sunburn, Noxema will also help to stop the peeling.
4. Take Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin) to relieve any pain or discomfort. If your sunburn is severe, ask your doctor for prescription pain medication and anti-inflammatory pills.
5. Apply cold compresses to your sunburned skin for 20 minutes, three or four times a day. Do not put ice directly on your skin.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear loose clothing that does not touch your sunburn, if possible.
• Do not use soap on your sunburned skin if it is blistered.
• Do not put butter on a sunburn or any kind of burn. This treatment is an old wives' tale and may actually make your burn worse.