For those of you spending a lot of time by the pool or at the beach this summer, we hope you’ve been packing hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Chances are, you’ve forgotten once or twice and gotten a sunburn. Keep reading for some quick DIY remedies to help remove the sting out of that burn.
Then, keep reading for a reminder about how exposure to the sun, and resulting sunburns, can increase your risk of skin cancer. Be careful and practice safe sun practices! If you have a mole that is new or changing, call us for a consultation right away.
So you’ve got a bad sunburn. What can you do about it right now? Try:
Witch Hazel
This gentle liquid is useful for many ailments like swelling and bruising. But, did you know that it’s also good for sunburn? Witch Hazel contains tannins, which can help bruises heal faster, swelling go down, and encourage your skin to heal itself. Soak a cotton pad with some witch hazel and swipe it over your sunburn to help your skin feel better.
Cool Shower/Bath
Getting out of the heat will help you treat sunburn. Consider taking a cool shower or bath to help remove the heat from your skin. It might even help you sleep better at night.
Stay Hydrated with Water
Your skin needs to be properly hydrated to repair itself, so grab a big glass of water as soon as you notice a sunburn. Staying hydrated will also help you feel better in the case of a particularly nasty burn.
Did you know that getting multiple bad sunburns during your lifetime can increase your risk of developing skin cancer later down the road? Sun damage from UV exposure can alter your DNA, causing your chances of developing deadly melanoma to rise. Protect yourself from damaging UV rays, and make sure to check moles regularly for signs of change.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re interested in learning about our treatment for melanoma and other serious skin cancers, call us today at (403) 255-1633 for a consultation with Dr. Todd Remington and (403) 252-7784 for a consultation with Dr. Kent Remington.
