How to Treat a Sunburn from Tanning

Submitted by staff on Sat, 07/25/2009 at 1:34pm.

There are many ways to treat sunburns from tanning. Whether you got a little too pink or you are peeling and blistered, there are things you can do to take at least some of the pain away. Try a combination of these methods to soothe the burn.

To soothe pain and swelling from a sunburn, you can take many over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and acetaminophen (Tylenol) can all help to take some of the pain away. If you feel nauseated, however, do not take these medications; consult a doctor. Topical Solarcaine is also a soothing OTC remedy.

Aloe Vera is a well-known treatment for sunburns. The aloe plant secretes a natural gel, which contains a natural analgesic. This thick gel contains many vitamins (A, C, E) and amino acids to aid the skin in its healing process. You can buy an aloe plant and snap off the leaves to expose the healing jelly-like substance. Straight from the plant is the most affective. If a plant is unavailable, aloe vera creams and gels work will do the job just fine.

Some skincare remedies will also help when your tanning leads to a painful sunburn. Rubbing alcohol or vinegar can help draw the heat out of the sunburn, and the quick evaporation of liquid will also soother the skin. While it may smell odd, this works quite well. Cold whole milk or cream can also help soothe the skin, and the fat content can actually help heal the skin as well. These liquids can be applied with a clean cloth, paper towel, or cotton gauze.

Homeopathic remedies can also work quite well when it comes to soothing over-tanned or sunburned skin. Urtica urens can aid in healing sunburned skin and in soothing sunburn pain. This compound is extracted from the stinging nettle plant. One part urtica urens mixed with ten parts water can be applied to burned skin. Calendula, from the marigold plant, can be applied to the skin for healing and antiseptic properties. Calendula can be found in spray, gel, or ointment form.

» posted in Skin Care & Health
 
 

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