Sunburn

A sunburn is a radiation burn to the skin produced by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, commonly from the sun's rays. A similar burn can be produced by overexposure to other sources of UV, such as tanning lamps and welding arcs. Exposure of the skin to lesser amounts of UV will often produce a suntan.

Treatment

There are numerous topical skin products that can relieve the pain of a sunburn and speed up the healing process. However, it is best advised never to cover a sunburn that is blistered or open with any sort of cream, gel, or ointment as it may cause the wound to be infected.

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The symptoms of milder sunburn can be treated with an antipruritic such as Calamine Lotion.

Related Topics:
Antipruritic - Calamine Lotion

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The thick mucilaginous gel on an Aloe vera plant or aloe-based products are popular treatments that heal the burn and relieve pain.

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Regular white vinegar and apple cider vinegar have often been touted for their usefulness in treating sunburns and preventing blistering and peeling.

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Other more unusual treatments involve the application of lavender oil, tea, yogurt, St. John's wort, or cucumbers to the burnt skin.

Related Topics:
Lavender oil - Tea - Yogurt - St. John's wort - Cucumbers

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Skin treatments aside, the pain from a sunburn is often best treated with an analgesic such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Additional relief may be found by putting a cool, wet towel over the affected area.

Related Topics:
Analgesic - Acetaminophen - Ibuprofen

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