It’s hot outside, and well, that might be the understatement of the year. Here we are in the south of the United States… in June… of course, it is hot! All we want to do is go to the pool, throw parties, and travel! It’s summer, the perfect time to live life to the fullest, and usually that includes us going outdoors (specifically suntanning at the beach perhaps). So, when we’re outside with the sun putting out all the heat it possibly could, we’re probably going to get sunburnt. I know that no matter what I do, I can basically guarantee that I am going to be sunburnt.

I always get sunburnt, but I feel like it took me ages to actually figure out how to treat my sunburns properly. I’ve tried it all, and finally, after years of sunburning, I have finally gathered the best ways to treat a sunburn safely, effectively, and quickly.

You want the goods? Keep on reading!

It doesn’t take much to burn if the UV index is high enough, and well, around here, it is usually pretty dang high! You should always apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when possible, but sometimes it really just isn’t enough. However, as soon as you do notice you are getting sunburnt, you should immediately get covered up and go inside so it doesn’t worsen!

Even though your sunburn is temporary, it can cause long-lasting damage to the skin that can permanently increase one’s risk of skin cancer. That’s why taking care of sunburn and taking preventative measures is SO important.

Alright, so after you get out of the sun, you’ll probably want to take some aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce swelling and lessen your discomfort (You know that sunburn hurts like heck when you try to put clothes on).

Next, you should take a cool bath or shower and pat yourself dry so you don’t further irritate the skin. You’ll want to then apply a good quality moisturizer to help trap the water so your skin can try to rehydrate itself! My tip is to definitely use a moisturizer that contains aloe vera in it because this will further ease the pain and help heal you a little faster.

You should also up your water intake because the sunburn is drying your skin out and can make you very dehydrated! I’ve said it dozens of times, and I will keep saying it: hydration is the most important aspect of skincare.

Lastly, just keep your skin continually moisturized and soothed with aloe vera. This will allow the skin to heal, and you’ll be able to comfortably sit down without saying “ow!” again. Next time, put a little more sunscreen on perhaps (yet, I always manage to still get sunburnt!).

Happy summer to all!