Treating a Sunburn + DIY Options for After - Sun Care

24 comments

Wednesday June 27, 2012 by Alexandra C.

If you've ever seen any photo of me before, you know that I'm what some might call, 'pasty', 'extremely pale' or 'snow white-esque' (if you're feeling generous). It's okay, I've come to terms with the fact that I don't ever tan. And that's not by choice either because instead of browning to a glow, I just burn to a crisp. Last Canada Day long weekend, I spent some time at the beach and come home with lobster red burned thighs. I was in agony for next two weeks as my skin peeled. It was unattractive to say the least.

I'm going to order you chicks to mosey on over here and check out some information about sunscreen and why it's so important. I'm also going to tell you that you should check out this sunscreen round up for adults and kids alike. However, if you're like last year me this long weekend and forget to apply that SPF (and end up with a burn while face palming yourself), don't worry. We've still got you covered.

When you've got a nasty sunburn that just won't quit, why not pick up one of these products:

1. Clinique After-Sun Rescue Balm with aloe (C$24.00)
2. Korres Yoghurt After-Sun Cooling Gel (C$31.00)
3. Biotherm After Sun (C$35.00)
4. Elizabeth Grant Soleil Smart ApresSun (C$22.00)
5. Clarins SOS Sunburn Soother (C$45.00)
6. Mary Kay Suncare After-Sun Replenishing Gel (C$12.00)
7. Alterna Summer Hair After-Sun Hair Quench (C$20.00) (Tip! Don't forget about UV damage on your hair chicks!)

There are also a few great DIY methods for dealing with lobster red skin.

My personal favourite is aloe vera gel (2.) which can be applied directly onto your burn on it's own. It's inexpensive and helps to cool your skin. For extra relief, you can create aloe vera ice cubes in the freezer.

The phrase 'cool as a cucumber' exists for a reason. Try some cucumbers (4) on that hot skin of yours to cool down and soothe.

I hadn't heard of this remedy before, but it's pretty intriguing. Apparently the tannins in tea (5) work to decrease redness, inflammation and promote healing. You can use any tea (normal black tea will do) for this. Apply with a cloth or put into spray bottle. Just be sure to let the tea cool before applying to your skin!

Take a luke warm or a colder bath to calm your skin. Add 2-3 cups or oats (1) or try dissolving 3/4 cup of baking soda (3).

(via thebeautybean.com)

Are you a tanner or maybe a self tanner? Or perhaps you're like me in the pasty white department? Leave a comment with a tip for an after-sun care routine!

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	on Jul 05, 2012 MissyLee 492 said: FYI was using the Biotherm After Sun for ages. Worked wonderfully to even out spots and was slightly healing for burns. When the burn is bad, Aloe Vera works best - especially if you have a plant! Best Best option? Wear Sunscreen! I try to "never leave home without it".
	on Jul 04, 2012 Racenhawk 2,155 said: love clinique
	on Jul 01, 2012 Charmheart16 2,419 said: Great tips. I've had really bad sunburns before and they are definitely not fun. Aloe Vera definitely helped with soothing my sunburns.
	on Jun 30, 2012 Cassie_ 1,732 said: Great tips for summer!
	on Jun 30, 2012 bubbles77 17,098 said: Aloe Vera gels has been a staple in my home forever. It is cooling, soothing, works instantly and has aided in combating many nasty sunburns.
	on Jun 28, 2012 Aliza 14,097 said: I've only ever tried Aloe Vera gel and it worked great for me. I hope there isn't a next time, but if there is I'll keep these in mind!
	on Jun 27, 2012 flower 2,429 said: lovely products!
	on Jun 27, 2012 katieg 9,179 said: I like a tan but do not lay out to tan. I play sports so sometimes sun burns happen. I use aloe when this happens.
	on Jun 27, 2012 KatelynRose1984 19,046 said: I use Aloe like it's going out of style in the summer. I don't burn much, but I love the feel of it on my skin. It's an instant cool relief. I also use a lot of cucumbers, and everyone laughs at me! haha.
	on Jun 27, 2012 farouknabela 3,382 said: Love Aloe!