what's the best way to care for a sunburn?

Answer 1

Not to expose the skin to the sun

Answer 2

It depends on the severity of the sunburn. If it is mild and there are no blisters, then you can try the aloe that others are suggesting. The problem however is that blistering usually does not occur right away and you can wind up with infection. What I usually recommend in the case of a sunburn that is more than just stinging is Advil (ibuprofen). It not only has the analgesic (pain reducer) effect but also the anti inflammatory effect and can prevent blisters if taken within the first few hours of sun exposure.

If you have no stomach problems and no other reasons that would preclude you from taking Ibuprofen, then you can take up to 800 mg 3 times per day...Verify this with your doctor since he/she knows your medical history and I do not.

Answer 3

That depends on how severe your sunburn is. If your sunburn is mild then soak in a tub of cool water or put cool water on painful areas. Apply non oil based creams or lotion or aloe Vera gel to sooth your sunburn. For the pain use an over the counter topical anesthetic or pain killers with ibuprofen.

Answer 4

Aloe Vera Gel

Answer 5

A sunburn occurs when skin is burned by exposure to the sun or other ultraviolet light. See also sunburn first aid.

Common Causes Return to top

Sunburn results when the amount of exposure to the sun or other ultraviolet light source exceeds the ability of the body's protective pigment, melanin, to protect the skin. Sunburn in a very light-skinned person may occur in less than 15 minutes of midday sun exposure, while a dark-skinned person may tolerate the same exposure for hours.

It is now recognized that sunburn and sun exposure should not be treated as insignificant. Deaths have resulted from acute sun exposure, and significant temporary disability is experienced by millions of sunburned people each year.

Unlike a thermal burn, sunburn is not immediately apparent. By the time the skin starts to become painful and red, the damage has been done. The pain is worst between 6 and 48 hours after sun exposure. In severe sunburns, blistering of the skin may occur.

Swelling (edema ) of the skin, especially in the legs, is common. Toxins are released with sunburn, and fever is not uncommon. Skin peeling usually begins between three and eight days after exposure.

The long-term consequences of years of overexposure to the sun are significant. One blistering sunburn doubles the likelihood of developing malignant melanoma. Chronic sun exposure causes premature wrinkling and aging of the skin. Age spots (lentigo) are a result of sun exposure.

Skin cancer (basal cell and squamous cell cancer) is directly related to the amount of sun exposure (determined by skin pigmentation and hours in the sun). Finally, sun exposure and ultraviolet damage have been implicated in the development of cataracts.

Very effective sunscreens have been developed that protect from UVA and UVB (long and short wavelengths of ultraviolet light), which are the components of sunlight responsible for burning and cancerous changes in the skin.

Sunscreen, protective clothing, and ultraviolet-protected sunglasses are all recommended to prevent excessive sun exposure. Wearing a sunscreen with high sun protection factor (SPF) is recommended. The higher SPF numbers indicate greater protection. Unfortunately, there is no way to get a "safe tan" from the sun.

Home Care Return to top

Sunburn is better prevented than treated. Effective sunscreens are available in a wide variety of strengths. Most doctors recommend a sunscreen SPF level of 30 or greater.

Sunscreen should be generously applied. If out in the sun for a prolonged period of time during the day, wearing a hat and other protective clothing is recommended. Light clothing reflects the sun most effectively.

If you do get a sunburn:

Try taking a cool shower or bath or placing wet, cold wash rags on the burn.
Avoid products that contain benzocaine, lidocaine, or petroleum (like Vaseline).
If blisters are present, dry bandages may help prevent infection.
If your skin is not blistering, moisturizing cream may be applied to relieve discomfort.
Over the counter medications, like ibuprofen, may help to relieve pain from sunburn. (Aspirin should be avoided in children who are running a fever.)
Call your health care provider if Return to top

There is a fever with the sunburn
Fluid-filled blisters, dizziness, or visual difficulties accompany the sunburn
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting sunburn may include:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003227.htm
http://www.rdoctor.com
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
http://www.cdc.gov
http://www.kavokin.com
http://www.symptomat.com
http://www.webmd.com
http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
When did it occur?
How often does sunburn develop?
Is the skin red?
Are there blisters?
How much of the body was sunburned?
What medications are being taken?
Do you use a sunblock or sunscreen? What type? How strong?
Other
What other symptoms are also present?
Is there fever, dizziness, blisters, or vision problems?

Update Date: 4/30/2005

Answer 6

Aloe Vera

Answer 7

Aloe vera juice is the best. if you can get it from the plant, it is preferred. You can also buy it over the counter, but it has alcohol in it. At health food stores, they sell Aloe Vera Juice to drink that is pure. Put it on the burn, and it will take the stinging out, and help it heal faster!

Answer 8

Aloe vera will help sooth the burn, but you may also want to find a lotion with aloe vera in it. The lotion will provide moisture to the burnt area to help prevent the skin from drying up and flaking off.

Answer 9

sunblock only keep you from getting sunburn, youl will tan though. and after a day at the beach some cold aloe vera will feel nice.

Answer 10

A few years ago, while vacationing in Florida, we were told a mix of your favorite lotion and aloe vera gel would do the trick. It helps alot, and we still do that. I pour equal amounts in the palm of my hand and mix them together before applying.

Answer 11

I was going to say alo vera but then like 5 other people did. Oh well i'll do it anyway