Sunburn? Itchy Back?

So far this summer, I've had two friends turn into lobsters--and it's not like they had never heard of sun screen. If you tend to burn, it's best to get the sun screen with the highest UVA rating.

As Labor Day draws near, all the major drug stores will drastically reduce the price of their sun screen. So stock up for next year at a fraction of the price--and use it!

Well, that helps for next year, but what about now? You probably know that our favorite tried and true aloe vera gel with lidocaine is tops for the pain, but what about just itching?

Should you try one of those bamboo or hard plastic back scratchers from Dollar Tree or Spencer's? Don't even think about it. You already have enough damage to your skin without using the equivalent of an industrial grade shredder on it. You need a hair brush.

That's right, but not just any brush. Purchase a cheap plastic brush with ball-tipped bristles. Once you've tried this for that irritating itch on your back, you'll never use anything else. Just be sure the brush has the balled-tips and that you keep it placed safely out of the way of household germs when not in use.

Now, all together, let's repeat the pledge: We will use sun screen the next time and every time!


Happy Dog Days,

Nurse Nan

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