Summer is here and with it comes the chance to enjoy the outdoors. But if you’re not careful, you could also end up with a nasty sunburn. A sunburn is not only painful but can also lead to long-term skin damage.

In this article, we’ll explore five things that can make your sunburn worse.

1. Sun exposure during peak hours

The sun is most intense between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. This means that spending time outside during these hours increases your risk of getting a sunburn. If you must go outside during peak hours, stay in the shade as much as possible.

Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats, to shield your skin from the sun’s rays.

2. Repeated sun exposure

Any exposure to the sun can lead to a sunburn, but repeated exposure can make things worse. This is because the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin over time, causing it to become more sensitive to the sun.

If you’ve already gotten a sunburn, it’s important to avoid further exposure until your skin has fully healed.

3. Hot showers or baths

Taking a hot shower or bath may feel great, but it can make your sunburn worse. Hot water can dry out your skin, making it more prone to peeling and irritation. If you must bathe, use lukewarm water instead of hot water.

You should also avoid using soap or other harsh cleansers, as they can further irritate your sunburned skin.

4. Certain medications

Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing your risk of getting a sunburn. If you’re taking medication, be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if it increases your risk of sunburn.

Some common medications that can make you more sensitive to the sun include antibiotics, antidepressants, and birth control pills. If you’re on medication, make sure to apply sunscreen before going outside.

5. Not wearing sunscreen

This is perhaps the most obvious thing that can make your sunburn worse. Sunscreen acts as a barrier between your skin and the sun’s UV rays, reducing your risk of getting a sunburn.

When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Make sure to apply sunscreen generously and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

These are just a few of the things that can make your sunburn worse. By taking steps to protect your skin, you can enjoy the summer sun without putting your health at risk.