Sunburn

How to Avoid It: You know the drill, but every summer you forget at least once and wind up with a sunburn. Here’s another reminder: Use a high-SPF sunscreen, limit sun exposure, and don’t forget to reapply!

Once You’ve Got It: Taking ibuprofen pills, such as Motrin or Advil, will treat the pain and reduce the inflammation. So will refrigerated aloe gel, which creates a protective barrier over skin. Try Banana Boat Soothing Aloe After Sun Gel ($5 at drugstores) or Propoline After Sun Body Spray With Aloe & Chamomile ($16, www.drugstore.com). “A wet washcloth that has been placed in the freezer for 10 minutes will also help,” says Zoe Draelos, a dermatologist in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Peeling usually occurs a few days after a bad burn, but “don’t pick!” says Renee Snyder, a dermatologist in Austin, Texas. “When you pull skin off before it’s ready, you risk causing scars.”