why is it that no matter what I do- I go outside with spf whatever number(i've tried them all) sunscreen on, and hats, and whatever else I can find- sunglasses... but I always end up crispy?


As long as I can remember I've always been really red in summer. Actually I can barely remember a time when I didn't have skin that peeled from the burns. I really don't want to have to wear long sleeves and long pants outside all summer long- What else can I do???

You sound just like me,I go "red" then peel,
If I can't use sunblock ,I use Camomile lotion. My Mom used to use it for nappy rash for babies,
Another product you can consider is not on prescription in the Uk, is to ask a chemist for "E45" which comes both as a tube and liquid (Bath oil)form ,the Maker is Crookes Healthcare in Nottingham Uk Post code is NG2 3AA
I found their website as I typed this, Perhaps you can get a free sample? There is a "feedback" section within the pages.www.e45.co.uk
Ps By the way, are you a "Red head"? They are more suseptible to sunburn,I know this because one of my Brothers and Sisters both go through extreme "Skin peeling" and redness every Hot day unless they slap on lots of lotion.

[This message was edited by bedstor on 06-14-02 at 04:03 PM.]

when out in the sun and you start to get hot (your skin feels like its "burning" ) then its time to get out of the sun and reapply sunscreen. Sunscreen is only a protectant for a short time. If you would normally burn after 15 mintues then the sunscreen helps you stay out for 30 without burning. Therefor reapply often and seek shade areas, wear a nice straw gardening hat or something to protect your face and shoulder areas which are the most likey to be sun exposed. Drink fluids and keep on sun glasses to protect your eyes.

you should not burn if you properly apply the 45spf regulary through out the day.

I have very fair skin and have had problems burning my entire life. I use a high SPF and apply it often. If I get a bad sunburn I've found that vinegar helps, but you smell like a salad for awhile...it really does help take the heat out though, and I've noticed that I don't tend to peel and it's not painful for quite as long. I just soak a washcloth in white vinegar, wring it out and lay it over the sunburned area until the washcloth gets warm. Then I take it off and do it again.

When I lived in Nevada, in an arid climate, I could always tell when I was starting to burn since my skin would start to feel tight, and literally, like it was "baking"! Now that I'm in a more humid climate, it's harder to tell, but I still take care to try & limit my "sun-time". I try to do yard work early in the morning or early in the evening after it's cooled off, and that seems to help.

Good luck, and I hope you find the right recipe for your own skin!