You know the importance of protecting your skin from the sun's damaging rays. But every now and then, a sunburn can surprise you. Whether you forgot to pack sunscreen in your beach bag or you sweated off your SPF of 30 during a vigorous workout, you want to ease the pain of sunburn, help your skin heal, and get back to summer fun as quickly as possible. If your burn is severe, accompanied by a high fever or disorientation, see a doctor. For mild to moderate sunburn, try these simple treatment steps.

Cool Down.

Take a cold bath or shower to help your skin cool off, but avoid lathering up with soap—you want your skin's natural oils to stay intact. Use cold compresses during the next several hours to continue cooling and soothing the affected area.

Slather On Some TLC.

Applying a moisturizing lotion can help protect your skin and cool it even more. A lotion with aloe vera is ideal—try pure aloe gel if you have it. But don't rub in the lotion too much, or you could create additional irritation.

Visit Your Pharmacy.

An over-the-counter cream with hydrocortisone may help ease the pain and swelling caused by a sunburn. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen also can help.

Stay Hydrated.

A sunburn can rob your body of vital moisture, so keep drinking plenty of water and other non-caffeinated beverages.

Don't Aggravate Blisters.

If your sunburn is severe enough to cause blisters, do not cover or pick at them. Instead, let the blisters heal on their own. Skin that doesn't blister still may peel as it heals. Resist the urge to pick off the dead skin, because this can expose the tender flesh underneath to infection.

Stay in the Shade.

Until your burn has fully healed, try to limit your exposure to the sun. If you must go back into direct sunlight, wear a shirt, hat, or skirt to shield the burned area.