Treating a Sunburn Now

Of the many easily acquired injuries we are likely to face, sunburns are among the most painful and debilitating. An untreated sunburn can cut a fun vacation short and make the simple act of wearing clothing an exercise in pain management. Yet there are a few methods of treating a sunburn that can greatly lessen the resulting pain and discomfort . If you're ready to treat your sunburn now, read on for several helpful tips that will have you enjoying your vacation again in no time.

The most important step in treating a sunburn is to act quickly. Enter and remain under shade or indoors as soon as you notice reddening of the skin. This prevents the burn from worsening and making treatment even more difficult later. Also, begin drinking as much cool water as possible. Not only will cool water help reduce your internal temperature, but it will also help prevent dehydration which often accompanies sunburn . Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as both tend to remove fluids from your system much more quickly.

Next, apply aloe vera extract immediately. Aloe is available in most stores , and is excellent to keep on hand if you anticipate spending lots of time in the sun. Rapid application of aloe will not only lessen the pain, but it might also help change the burn into a tan.

Anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen helps lessen inflammation caused by the sunburn. This both accelerates healing and provides some degree of pain relief.

Noxema facial cleanser is another product that is extremely effective at removing the heat and sting from sunburned skin. To use, apply liberally to burned areas and allow it to soak in. Re-apply this remedy as often as possible.

Other topical treatments reported to work are cool cloths soaked in either water and vinegar or vitamin D milk. Each helps remove heat and sting from the burned area.

Bathing is an effective way to treat sunburns . A cool bath is an excellent source of temporary and immediate relief from much of the associated pain. Various additions to the water can also help in the treatment regimen. For instance, bathing with green tea is helpful, as the tannin in the mixture has a healing effect. Baths with Epsom salt are also helpful, as the salt helps remove toxins present in the skin after burning. Avoid using soap as it might irritate the burn and slow healing.

While recovering from sunburn, avoid using lotions as these often either irritate wounded skin or clog pores. Avoid tight clothing, or anything not made of natural materials. Artificial materials can irritate healing skin and deprive it of the airflow it needs to heal. Continue to avoid the sun as much as possible, and keep as well hydrated as is possible.

It is best to avoid being burned entirely, but when sunburn strikes, it can ruin the best-laid plans of a much-needed vacation. By following the previous steps, you can treat a sunburn quickly and be having fun again in no time. Top