4 Ways to Treat That Nasty Sunburn

Summer's right around the corner. That means your kids will be spending more time outside in the sun. Unfortunately, that also means that they'll probably end up with at least one sunburn. Pediatricians recommend that children use sunblock when they go outside. Unfortunately, no matter how generous you are with the sunblock, chances are at least one part of their body will end up with a sunburn. When you are faced with a painful sunburn, reach for these easy treatment options to relieve the pain.

Go for the Cool Water

Cold water is one of the quickest ways to relieve a painful sunburn. If large areas of your child's body have suffered a sunburn, try having them soak in a cool tub of water for about 15 minutes. For smaller areas, soak wash cloths in cold water, wring them out well and then gently place them on the affected areas. Replace the cloths whenever they lose their cool. Repeat the process several times a day to keep the pain away.

Treat Redness with White

Distilled vinegar is a natural anti-inflammatory agent, which means you can use it to relieve the swelling that often accompanies a sunburn. Pour a small amount of vinegar into a bowl. Dip cotton balls into the vinegar and rub the liquid on the sunburn. The vinegar will alleviate the pain and reduce the inflammation.

Say Yes to Aloe

Aloe vera gel is a great way to eliminate sunburn pain and moisturize your child's skin at the same time. You can purchase aloe vera at most health food stores. Aloe vera plants can also be grown at home and used as a wound treatment. If you have an aloe vera plant, simply cut one of the branches off. The gel that's located inside the branch can be rubbed directly onto your child's skin.

Compress Some Tea

If you drink tea at home, don't throw your tea bags away. You can use them to treat your little one's sunburn pain. The tannic acid found in tea can reduce swelling and dull the pain of a sunburn. Tea bags are especially beneficial for relieving facial sunburn pain.

Simply soak a tea bag in cold water, squeeze out the excess liquid and rub the tea bag on their skin. Leave the tea bags in place for about 20 minutes. Repeat the treatment several times a day to reduce pain and swelling.

Sunburns can leave your child downright uncomfortable. They don't have to suffer through the pain. Use these simple methods to reduce the painful symptoms of a nasty sunburn. For severe sunburns involving blisters, be sure to consult with your pediatrician. Always remember to put sunscreen on your child before they go outside to play.

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