What the UV Index Actually Means
We get sunlight every day, but some days the ultraviolet rays are stronger than others. You know this intuitively if you’re prone to burning: You probably skip the sunscreen if…
What to Do (and Not Do) When Your Sunburn Starts Peeling
A sunburn that’s severe enough to peel is a sign that you fucked up—you should have worn sunscreen, or reapplied it after swimming, or made sure somebody helped you get…
Gardening Doesn’t Have to Wreck Your Body
Gardening season is finally upon us, which is reason for celebration—even though the first time you head out to work in your yard or garden, you’ll quickly be reminded how…
The Best Ways to Relieve Itchy Skin Without a Prescription
This post is part of our Home Remedy Handbook, a tour of the landscape of home remedies from the iffy to the doctor-approved. Read more here. Whether your itchy skin…
How to Keep Your Kids Safe During a Heat Wave
Photo: Cheryl Casey (Shutterstock) I was feeling a bit smug a week ago, comfortably nestled up in my corner of the Pacific Northwest while the rest of you sizzled. But…
Your Rash Might Be a Sun Allergy
Photo: Stanislav71 (Shutterstock) For all the good things it does for us, the sun can also be a menace: It can burn your skin, mess with your eyes, and even…
Put These Things in a Cooler for Your Baby’s First Beach Trip
Photo: Elena Stepanova (Shutterstock) You may have already bought your baby an adorable sun hat and a bottle of sunscreen, but there are a few other considerations you’ll need to…
How to Protect Your Vehicle From Sun and Heat Damage
Photo: LeManna (Shutterstock) You know you need sunscreen and layers to protect you from the sun, lest you get a bad sunburn. It stands to reason that if UV rays…
Stop Popping Your Sunburn Blisters
Photo: Irishasel (Shutterstock) Severe sunburns come with a variety of symptoms and issues, from nausea to bright red skin—they can even require medical intervention. They can also come with blisters,…
How to Tell If Your Sunburn Might Actually Need Medical Attention
Photo: New Africa (Shutterstock) Sunburns can be serious, but for the most part, we know how to treat them at home: Use cool compresses, grab some aloe gel, and drink…