Fun in the sun can come to a scorching halt with a nasty sunburn.
If you’ve ever gotten one, you know how unpleasant it is. Cooling the burn correctly can help alleviate sunburn pain.
Not only is sunburn painful, it can lead to potential long-term health effects.
“Every time you get a sunburn, it ages your skin and increases your risk for skin cancer,” said Consumer Reports’ Trisha Calvo.
Consumer Reports’ says prevention should be a priority. That means wearing a good sunscreen.
A top-performing sunscreen in Consumer Reports tests is Coppertone Water Babies Lotion SPF 50. If you’re using a lotion, you’ll need about a teaspoon per body part or area not covered with clothing.
If you suffer a sunburn, though, there are ways to relieve the discomfort. Start by taking frequent cool baths or showers.
“When you’re done bathing, pat yourself dry - don’t rub the towel against your skin. You want to leave your skin damp and then apply a moisturizer,” Calvo said.
Look for moisturizers that contain aloe vera or soy.
Since sunburns inflame the skin, taking an anti-inflammatory like aspirin or ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Also, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking more water
than usual.
If your skin blisters, don’t pop or peel them. Allow them to heal. But if your burn is severe, see a doctor, especially if you feel unwell, have chills, a fever, or nausea.
And if you do go outside, cover up by wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover the burn, and stay in the shade as much as possible.
Consumer Reports editors liked the Tommy Bahama umbrella, which has easy-grip handles for setup and is designed to withstand the breeziest beach days.
They also recommend the L.L. Bean Sunbuster Folding Shelter for its simple setup, higher-quality materials, and roominess.