We’ve all been there: A little redder than we’d like after  spending too much time in the sun...And in the aftermath comes the burn, peeling and skin that’s hot-to-the-touch — ouch! At the moment, relief is top of mind.

When you don’t wear sunscreen — even before burn or pain sets in — the harm has already started. “UV rays are able to penetrate and damage the skin, leading to premature aging of the skin and sometimes skin cancer,” says Dr. Doris Day, a board certified dermatologist in New York City. “There are specific effects like mutations in DNA called Thymine-Thymine dimers, increased matrix metalloproteinases, immune suppression and change in skin barrier function and water balance, that contributes to the surface changes we see such as discoloration, redness, blotchy skin and skin roughness.”

In short: The results are not pretty. By the way, this isn’t an article written to shame you for forgetting sunscreen or not applying enough sunscreen with a high enough SPF. It’s a reminder that if you find yourself in an uncomfortable after-sun situation, there are tried and true solutions to alleviate (some of) the discomfort.

Over-the-counter aftercare for sunburns

Dr. Day suggests moisturizing burns with cream or ointment, followed by an anti-inflammatory. “Taking an aspirin, as tolerated and/or using topical steroids can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin,” she says. On that note, it’s important to talk to your doctor about what products are right for you and if you have any ingredient allergies or intolerance. (And, of course, check medication and treatment labels before applying anything to your body.)

When to go to the emergency room for a sunburn

Keep a thermometer handy and monitor how you’re feeling (mentally and physically) as time goes by. “If there is increased or decreased body temperature, excessive headaches or change in mental status, that could be a medical emergency and should be addressed in an ER immediately,” says Dr. Day.

Things to avoid with a sunburn

“Don't peel off dead skin,” says Dr. Day. (Not only is it messy, it’s just not necessary.) “Moisturize and allow it to come off when it's ready. If you peel it off, you will expose the underlying skin before it's ready and that is essentially creating a second wound, which leads to increased risk of infection and scarring.” (More peeling, more problems.)

On the list of products to steer clear of, Dr. Day says stay away from alcohol wipes, hydrogen peroxide, salicylic acid or lactic acid moisturizers, scrubs or any harsh ingredients. Ahem, they’re going to hurt!

You’ll also want to avoid any cosmetic procedures while experiencing the effects of sunburn.

Oh, one more thing — do not apply hot water. “Avoid hot showers since that will further aggravate the skin,” she advises.

Sunburn remedies

Dr. Day suggests — in addition to the solutions previously mentioned — “take a cool or lukewarm bath with oatmeal and whole milk to soothe the skin. Apply moisturizing cream immediately after.”

What to wear with a sunburn

“Loose cotton clothing,” Dr. Day succinctly recommends. After all, do we want rough jeans or tight fabric running up against our sensitive skin? No thanks!

How often to get your skin checked

Although this isn’t a burn-related tip, it is important to care for— and check— your skin on a regular basis to keep a record of what’s happening over time. Dr. Day says to get a skin check once a year. And if you have a family history of skin cancer or if you notice new or changing spots, she says to go more frequently.

Now, it’s time to hit the beach! Just kidding — grab your sunscreen and load up on after-sun care treatment options (just in case). Don’t forget to talk to your doctor about after-sun options as well.