Over the weekend, I went to the beach and did something incredibly foolish: I got a sunburn. It’s not terribly severe, but it is uncomfortable, and since it’s on my back (shoulders and arms), it’s certainly made sleeping a bit of a challenge. Despite the fact that I did, indeed, wear sunblock and I remembered to reapply, I think the problem stems from the fact that a) I used a spray instead of a lotion, and b) it’s hard to reach your own back! Spray-on sunblocks can be a good choice if you’re not planning on prolonged sun exposure, but if you are, I think it’s probably wiser to go with a good old-fashioned lotion that you can really slather on in order to make sure you’re getting enough protection. And as for getting your back? Have a friend help out! I tried to get my own back, but I clearly wasn’t thorough enough, and now I’m in need of a little relief. If you’re in the same boat as me, here are some options:

 
The Clinique After-Sun Rescue Balm is fantastic because, in addition to cooling you down, it also helps repair your skin in order to minimize sun damage. The Korres Yoghurt Cooling Gel is a fascinating product that provides relief and hydration with natural ingredients. And the Ole Henriksen All-Purpose Aloe Vera Gel and Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment both offer tried and true methods of soothing skin; they use aloe vera and oatmeal, respectively, to lessen pain, redness and irritation.
 
Of course, the best way to deal with sunburns is to avoid them in the first place - definitely my plan from now on! Next time the beach is calling, I’ll be sure to coat every inch of my skin (including my back!) with a powerful cream sunblock. This one by Solbar comes highly recommended by a friend who was tipped off by two different dermatologists; the key seems to be the Oxybenzone, which offers increased long wave ultraviolet protection. You’d better believe I won’t be leaving home without it again this summer!