Serious Sunburn: Relieving Blisters and Burns

Since sunburn is a first-degree burn, anything that cools the skin will help to relieve the pain – from a wet T-shirt to a cold linen cloth soaked in saline solution and placed on the burn. To make the solution, dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 2 litres of distilled water. Be aware that sunburn can occur even on overcast days, especially at high altitude.

Believe it or not blisters are there to help! Blisters are raised areas of skin or mucous membranes under which fluids have accumulated. They serve to protect underlying tissue and reduce discomfort and the risk of infection. Never burst them!!! 

If a blister bursts, expose it to the air in hygienic surroundings. Dress it if there's a risk of dirt getting in. See a doctor if it becomes inflamed, or if you suddenly develop widespread blisters, which suggest an underlying disease.

Experts say that even one blistering burn can double the risk of developing melanoma, an often lethal form of skin cancer. The key is being aware of the changes in your skin and stay aware of the dangers of sun damage.

For more minor redness (without blistering), try one or more of the following fast-relief measures:

• Take a cool (not cold) shower, then apply pure aloe vera gel, which is instantly cooling.

• Soak a towel in strong, tepid tea and apply as a compress. Alternatively, aromatherapists suggest a compress dampened by water with a few drops of lavender oil added.
 

Slather on the sunscreen, and be sure you get a nice, even coat. Apply it again after you swim or sweat. But don't rely on sunscreen alone. Keep your shoulders covered and wear a hat with a big brim. You may not look like the models in swimsuit catalogs, but you will avoid a painful sunburn and have healthier skin for life. Find more prevention tips here.

If you are struggling to keeping sunburn cool at night, you might want to consider these cooling bed pads.