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If there’s one thing we’re willing to get redundant about here atAllure,it’s sunscreen.
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Since sunburns are relatively commonplace, it’s easy to think getting scorched isn’t really that bad.
But research shows that even one bad burn has a significant impact on your risk fordeveloping skin cancer.
But since sun happens, here’s how to treat a sunburn if you get one.
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Use lotion to keep your skin hydrated.
The easiest way to do that is from the outside-in.
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Reduce your skin’s inflammation with pills and topicals.
you might also treat a sunburn by reducing inflammation from the inside-out, Dr. Zeichner explains.
She prefersCortizone 10 Maximum Strength, which also contains aloe vera.
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Do not even think about peeling your sunburn.
(It’s a toss-up which no-no is more tempting.)
Sit on your hands, apply more aloe, whatever it takes to stop yourself from peeling.
Cool down in an oatmeal bath.
Colloidal oatmeal is a classic for a reason.
According to Dr. Ciraldo, the ingredient has been used by consumers for decades.
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5.
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Leave your blisters alone.
“Leave them intact and do not rupture or peel them,” Dr. Marchbein cautions.
“If the burn is severe, see a board-certified dermatologist,” she adds.
“Prescription steroid creams can sometimes be used to help speed healing.”
Use a vitamin C serum for long-lasting free-radical protection.
While a burn will heal within a few days, the free-radical damage done by UV rays is forever.
This damage is what causes early aging effects and ups your risk of skin cancer, he adds.
Applying avitamin C serumcan help.
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Remember to protect your skin from future exposure.
And as always, the best treatment is prevention.
“Most people do not apply enough sunscreen to get the listed SPF,” Dr. Marchbein says.
She recommends using a shot glass-sized portion of at least SPF 30 and reapplying every two hours.
Whether you prefer mineral or chemical sunscreen formulas, just don’t leave the house without your SPF.
