Winter Sunburn

When we think of sunburn, we usually think of sunny beaches or other warm locales. So we don't always remember to use a sunscreen during the cloudy days of winter. The past few weeks I've encountered several who have received a (thankfully) mild sunburn while repairing wind damage or performing other outdoor chores.

These winter sunburns are usually on the hands and face and don't present the intense discomfort of an all over summer burn. For such mild burns, natural aloe vera is a great quick fix. If you don't have an aloe vera plant, an over-the-counter aloe gel is an inexpensive remedy that offers the same results. Panama Jack makes an aloe vera gel with the added painkiller of lidocaine. It can be found at most dollar stores and, if you're lucky, the Dollar Tree.

Remember to wear that sunscreen whenever working outdoors and have a great remaining six weeks of winter.

Nurse Nan