Home Remedies for Sunburn
Sunburn results from too much sun or sun-equivalent exposure. Anyone who visits a beach, goes fishing, works in the yard, or simply is out in the sun can get sunburn. Improper tanning bed use is also a source of sunburn. Although seldom fatal (sun poisoning), sunburn can be disabling and cause quite a bit of discomfort.
What can you do to prevent sunburn?
- Simply get out of the sun, cover exposed skin, get out of the tanning bed, and use a sunblock lotion.
What to do when you get sunburned?
- Apply cool compresses with equal parts of milk and water may suffice. You may also use cold compresses with Burow solution. You can buy this at a drugstore. Dissolve 1 packet in 1 pint of water. Soak gauze or a soft clean cloth in it. Gently wring out the cloth and apply to the sunburned area for 15-20 minutes. Change or refresh the cloth and solution every 2-3 hours.
- Use aloe-based lotions. There are many commercially available types. Ask the pharmacist at your local drugstore.
- Cool (not ice cold) baths may help. Avoid bath salts, oils, and perfumes because these may produce sensitivity reactions. Avoid scrubbing the skin or shaving the skin. Use soft towels to gently dry yourself. Don’t rub. Use a light, fragrance-free skin moisturizer.
- Avoid lotions that contain topical anesthetic medications because you can become sensitized and then allergic to that medicine.
- Obviously, stay out of the sun while you are sunburned.
Source: E-medicinehealth.com
