Must-Read: Getting Over That Sunburn

Don't be this guy

It is upon us, everyone. The summer is officially underway. Now, this isn’t that big of news is you reside where I do out here in Los Angeles where 10 months of the year are beach-worthy. But for any readers outside of the Southern California area, I’d offer two pieces of advice: (1) Move to Southern California. Come on. What are you doing? What are you trying to prove by living in the cold? Do you have a closet full of winter clothes you don’t want to get rid of or something? And the second piece of advice: (2) Take advantage of the summer months by heading to the beach!

Of course, not all beach expeditions are the same. Whenever I head out there, it’s not a question of if I’m going to get sunburned, but a question of how much of my skin will not be burned by the wretched sun. Luckily, the folks over at Men’s Fitness have put together a vital minute-by-minute guide of what to do to your body after getting the sunburn. For instance, when you get home and first realize that your skin isn’t supposed to be feeling like that:

ONCE YOU GET HOME

Plop yourself in front of an air conditioner. Heat accentuates the injury, so getting cooler may lessen the burn’s severity. “A cool shower can also help,” says McDaniel. Just be sure to dab your skin dry, rather than inflaming it further with a towel.

Smear on some aloe. This plant extract is not only antibacterial but also contains lubricants that speed up the healing process. Keep applying every few hours for the next few days.

Drink water like crazy. You’re at a higher risk of dehydration, and your body’s fluids need replacing. But steer clear of alcohol, which causes vasodilation ? opening up blood vessels that may accentuate that burning sensation.

You guys got any home remedies for this?