Treating A Sunburn
With summer here many of us are heading out to the pool or the beach (whichever one is closest) and getting the great summer tan that we have been craving for all winter. For some of us all we will get is a horrible sunburn that (if we’re lucky) will turn into a tan. Because of this we need to be prepared and know exactly what to do when this happens.
Baking Soda: Arm & Hammer baking soda is great for treating a sunburn and even bug bites. All you need to do is dissolve 2 capfuls of it in a tub of warm water. Then you need to soak in the water for 10 - 30 minutes. Ask your doctor for a better time estimate.
When you are done pat dry. When you rub you are irritating your skin. You also want to make sure that a thin layer is still on the burn.
Aftersun Wipes: Aftersun Cloth Wipes (CVS/pharmacy brand) can be used to cool you off and to treat your sunburn. This helps those of you who hate to jump in the shower the day you have been burned. The cloths are cool and contain aloe and vitamin E.
Epsom Salt: You could go more to the traditional sense of healing and take a bath in Epsom salt. Use one cup of Epsom salt and very hot water to start a bath. Soak in water for 15 - 20 minutes.
“Aloe vera is the best remedy for sunburn,” says Dr. Karl Gruber, a surgical pathologist and CEO of Luca Sunscreen. Keep a plant in your home to treat minor burns or irritations—just squeeze the gel-like substance directly from the aloe vera leaves. “It has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties,” explains Dr. Gruber. “It’s even used in hospital burn units.”