From Pink to Peeling: How to Relieve a Sunburn

Unfortunately, you may have missed the sunburn prevention post and now you're left with a red, sensitive sunburn from spending too much time in the sun. What can you do to relieve the pain and minimize peeling? Here are a few suggestions.

1. Apply a cooling substance, such as aloe gel (chilled in the fridge helps to magnify the cooling sensation), Solarcaine spray or cold compresses to the skin. These methods help reduce heat and inflammation caused by the sunburn.

2. Take some aspirin within the first 24 hours. Aspirin dulls the pain and reduces inflammation.

3. Shower in cold or lukewarm water. Hot water may aggravate the burn further and cause additional dryness to your skin.

4. Moisturize your skin. Lotions, creams and aloe gel can help keep skin hydrated and make the peeling process less irritating. A gentle, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion is the best option. Also, never pick your peeling skin. That can lead to further damage and scarring. Let the skin shed naturally.

5. Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Remember, your skin is your largest organ and it needs water to stay healthy, especially when damaged.

6. If you will be spending more time in the sun, be sure to wear clothes that cover the sunburned areas. Apply sunscreen to all other exposed areas and spend as much time in the shade as possible.

Lastly, if your sunburn is causing you intense discomfort and/or illness, and you develop severe blisters, please contact a dermatologist. He or she has the knowledge and ability to help you recover.

Be careful this summer and don't forget to wear your sunscreen.