What do you for a bad sunburn?

Here are some tips on how to treat a bad sunburn:

1. Cool Down

- Move to a cool location, possibly go indoors

- Take a cool shower or bath

- Apply cold compresses to the burned areas for comfort

2. Hydrate

- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

- Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol as these can worsen dehydration

3. Treat Blister Carefully

- Avoid breaking your blisters as they are part of the healing process

- Keep them clean to avoid infection

- If a blister bursts on it own cover it with a bandage

4. Apply moisturizer

- Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the burned area hydrated

- Avoid aloe and petroleum jelly as they may trap heat

5. Over-the-Counter pain relief

- Consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve discomfort

6. Avoid Sun Exposure

- Stay out of the sun or seek shade while your skin is healing

- Wear sunscreen and protective clothing if sun exposure is unavoidable.

7. Consider Calamine Lotion

- Calamine lotion can provide itch relief and soothe skin

8. Avoid harsh soaps and scrubbing

- Gently clean your skin with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm wate.

9. Protect from infection

- Keep your hands clean to avoid introduction of bacteria.

When to see a doctor

- If the sunburn is causing severe pain or blisters

- If you develop fever, chills or any other sign of infection

- If the sunburn is widespread, especially over 20% of your body

- If your eyes are affected by sunburn.

Prevention tips

- Always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30

- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating

- Wear sun-protective clothing and sunglasses

- Seek shade during peak sun hours between 10 am to 4 pm.