First let's start with what sunburn is...  Sunburn is caused by an over exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.  It can also be caused by the powerful rays in a tanning bed.  Depending on your skin type and the amount of previous exposure (base tan) you have, will determine how likely you are to burn.  As most of us already know if it's your first time in the sun or tanning bed in a while (over 30 days) the more prone to sunburn you will be.

Remember if you burn at a tanning salon you most likely went in for too long.  Try starting with half the recommended time and slowly increase there after.

There are different levels of sunburn and the way you treat your burn will depend on the level of severity.  The two levels are mild and severe.  Let's break them down below:

Mild Burn is the most common and most likely we've all had this before.  It is recognized as redness on the skin without any blistering.  Typically you will find this gives off a slight irritating burning pain.

Treating Mild Sun or Tanning Bed Burn: It is best to start off by taking a cool, not cold, shower to help soothe the burning.  After your cool shower apply lotions that contain aloe vera liberally on all burnt areas.  If the pain persists you can apply a hydrocortisone cream and take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).  It is also beneficial to drink plenty of fluids for a few days following your burn.  Of course stay out of the sun or away from the tanning salon until your burn subsides.

Severe Burn is most recognized as a burn in which painful blisters form on the affected areas.  It is also a mild burn that covers a large area of the body.  It is important to note you should not break the blisters or peel away skin unless recommended by a doctor.  Breaking blisters and removing skin can expose you to the potential of severe infections.  It is common to have the chills or even run a fever with a severe burn.

Treating Severe Sun Burn or Tanning Bed Burn:  It is recommened, with a severe burn covering a large portion of your body, to seek medical attention.  If the burn is over a smaller area it is still recommended to visit your doctor but you may be ok treating the burn on your own.  I repeat don't break the blisters, touch them without washing your hands first, or cover them tightly.  Use an antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection.  Cover the blisters losely with a sterile bandage after applying the ointment.  Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.

A few things to remember about sun and tanning bed burns:

- For tanning bed burns try using Noxcema it works wonders for cooling the skin.

- If you are on medication many of them make you more sensitive to UV rays.  Check with your pharmacist or doctor to find out if any medication you are on makes you more sensitive.

- For a mild sunburn you can add milk to your cool compress to help soothe the burn.

- Other tricks for treating a mild burn include adding vinegar to your cool bath or some cooked oatmeal.

Any questions or information to add to this post?  Please comment below!

Note: It is recommended you contact your physician for any and all medical advice.  This site is for informational purposes only.