Summer: the season of beachy waves, bronzed complexions and…the occasional sunburn.
Considering it’s the first official day of summer, we thought this was the perfect time to remind you to stay sun safe. Read up on everything you need to know about sunscreen with our ultimate guide. And, if afterwards you still find yourself feeling the burn, these steps will help ease your pain.
1. Stay out of the sun
“Sounds obvious, but how many sunburnt people do you see at the beach?” asks Dr Yiasemides. Once the damage is done, take a hint and stay safely indoors while you heal.
2. Cool down
Apply wet compresses over the skin, or have a cold bath.
3. Ease the pain
Take an anti-inflammatory medication (such as ibuprofen) to reduce the inflammation in the skin and help with any discomfort.
4. Replenish your hydration levels
Drink lots of water as “sunburns have a dehydrating effect,” says Dr Yiasemides.
5. Soothe topically
Apply an anti-inflammatory cream, either prescription or over-the-counter, up to twice a day. We also love Herbivore Botanicals After Sun – Skin Soothing Aloe Mist, which contains soothing aloe vera, cooling mint and anti-inflammatory lavender to help reduce redness.
6. Repair your skin
Use a soothing gel or moisturiser, such as Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Mask and a mild, preservative-free moisturiser (try Sorbolene or Aqueous cream) throughout the day to comfort skin and speed up recovery.
This article originally appeared on Beauty Crew.