Sunburn

Let's talk about sunburns, something that maybe some of us might overlook at times. The best way to avoid a sunburns is to pick a good broad spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate SPF rating and apply generously to all exposed skin. In the case you experience a sunburn here are some tips to treat it.

1. Cool the skin. Apply to the affected skin a clean towel dampened with cool tap water. Or take a cool bath.

2. Apply a moisturizer, lotion or gel. An aloe vera lotion or gel or calamine lotion may be soothing.

3. Drink water to prevent dehydration.

4. Don't break small blisters (no bigger than your little fingernail). If blisters break, gently clean the area with mild soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover the wound with a nonstick gauze bandage. If a rash develops, stop using the ointment and seek medical care.

5. Take a pain reliever such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) to help with the discomfort and swelling of sunburn. Some sunburn relief medications are gels.

6. Avoid more sun exposure while your skin heals from the sunburn.

7. Apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream if your sunburn is severe.

Don't hesitate to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or the skin gets infected. Let's stay safe out there.