Come on, talk to me. I'll admit it: sometimes you get sunburned without wearing sunscreen. You've gotten sunburned before. Sometimes you put sunscreen on your face only (opens in new tab), and you get a solid sunburn on your legs, rarely reapplying SPF. (opens in new tab) And sometimes you miss the sunburn, the skin starts to peel, and it takes a year to really fade. But if you've never applied sunscreen when you go out in the sun, consider this your intervention.

If you look at me and think, of course she's going to wear sunscreen, she's pale and basically clear, then you're observant, but you're also wrong. I am fair-skinned and have a family history of melanoma, so I need to be cautious about using SPF, but all skin tones and skin types are susceptible to sun damage and need to be protected. Let me tell you how to cure sunburn, avoid sun damage, and protect yourself from future sunburn mishaps with the help of a good dermatologist. Plus: You can enjoy tanning without damaging your skin by simply following these steps.

Sadly, it's a mistake. While SPF should be used during peak hours when the sun is at its strongest (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), cloudy or overcast days are no excuse for not applying sunscreen. Up to 80% of UV rays penetrate clouds," cautions Dr. Marie Hayag, a New York-based certified dermatologist and founder of Fifth Avenue Aesthetics (opens in new tab). "UVA rays also pass through window glass, so the skin damage to the skin. Wear protective gear when the sun is out.

False. People with whiter skin are at greater risk for damage, but even darker skin can be damaged by sunburn, says Dr. Hayag. Dark skin may not redden as easily as fair skinned people, but redness and sunburn are not the only indicators of sun damage. Scaly, itchy, dry patches are definite signs to watch for.

Again, this is false. Even if one is not tanned, it is inevitable that skin cells are damaged by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Because sun exposure may be unavoidable, sunscreen should always be applied. Sunburn is the skin's defense against damage, explains Dr. Hadley King, a Manhattan-based dermatologist. The only way to tan safely is to use faux tanning products that do not rely on UV light.

It may seem obvious, but properly applying sunscreen daily is the best way to prevent sunburn and skin damage. This includes reapplying SPF if you swim or sweat and 20 minutes before going outside. If you are at particularly high risk for sun damage, Dr. Hayag recommends wearing protective hats, sunglasses, and clothing from brands such as Wallaroo Hat Company (opens in new tab), Solumbra (opens in new tab), Coolibar (opens in new tab) make products that protect against UV rays. In addition to the standard body and face SPF, you should also have a lip balm (opens in new tab) to protect your kissable lips from the sun.

Frighteningly, Dr. Hayag and Dr. King agree that experiencing five or more sunburns in one's life dramatically increases one's risk of developing skin cancer. That is why prevention is paramount. For those who are unsure which SPF is right for them, Dr. King recommends trying Skinsei (opens in new tab), which customizes products according to skin preferences.

Sunburn can be avoided if you are diligent. But if you notice a bright red, peeling shoulder, there are steps you can take to speed up the healing process and calm the itching, pain, and inflammation. Dr. King recommends taking an anti-inflammatory drug such as aspirin within 24 hours of the burn to reduce inflammation. Cold water and moisturizers can also help cool the affected area and keep it moist.

Many treatments can be found in the kitchen. Dr. King recommends applying cold milk or plain yogurt topically to soothe the skin. Much of the healing comes from within: both Dr. Hayag and Dr. King recommend drinking fluids to reduce dehydration. Paying attention to how you feel internally is very important. Dr. Hayag warns that wide blisters, fever, chills, and lightheadedness are all signs to seek medical attention.

Much of the warning to stay out of the sun comes from vanity. While it is understandable to want to avoid unsightly wrinkles and blemishes, protecting yourself from harmful UV rays is really a matter of health. Skin cancer can be life-threatening, making self-checks and annual visits to a dermatologist very necessary. If you notice unfamiliar freckles on your skin or spend a lot of time outdoors (or neither, just out and about), it is important to see a dermatologist and protect your health. Until then, apply self-tanner (opens in new tab), take a vitamin D supplement, and always wear sunscreen.

For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.

Sign up here