When the sun comes out of nowhere during the British summer, many of us are caught without sunscreen and suffer the consequences.
We’ve all done the lobster walk of shame at one point – with red, sore and peeling skin that takes weeks to simmer down.
But there are some cheap and simple home remedies that can speed up your recovery and protect your skin from further damage.
First aid
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Head for the shade at the first sign of rednes as sunburn can take hours to fully appear
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If you have to remain outside for the next few hours, cover up with loose cotton clothing that will let your skin breath
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Cool off with a wet towel for 15 minutes every hour, preferably with an ice compress
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Drink plenty of fluids to prevent further dehydration
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If you’re already in pain, take some over the counter medication like paracetomol or ibuprofen
At home
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Take a cool shower or bath – never with hot water
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Don’t rub your skin with soap, raid the kitchen for baking soda or apple cider vinegar that are natural anti-inflammatories
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If your eyes are sore from the burning sun, apply slices of cold cucumber (with natural analgesic properties) and eye drops if they’re handy
Prevention and cure
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Take cool, milky baths or apply yoghurt directly to your skin
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Treat sunburn with your diet - eat plenty of fruit and veggies like summer berries that are packed with antioxidants
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Once the pain has subsided, apply generous amounts of vitamin E or aloe vera cream that will reduce inflammation fast
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Create your own tonic with a tablespoon of witch hazel, a teaspoon of aloe vera, a few teaspoons of baking soda and a cup of fresh mint leaves – topped up with a few tablespoons of fresh water
Next time you’re out in the sun, remember what your mamma told you – prevention is better than cure! Pop a small bottle of sunscreen in your handbag and never be caught out again.
Do you have any sunburn remedies to share?
Let us know on Facebook and Twitter (@CloserOnline).
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