7 Proven Methods to Treat Sunburns

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Sunburns are an all-too-common consequence of spending too much time in the sun without adequate protection. While prevention is key, knowing how to treat sunburn effectively can ease discomfort and speed up the healing process. Here are seven proven methods to care for your sunburned skin.

Cool the Burn

Start by cooling your skin to reduce inflammation and soothe the burning sensation.

Take a Cool Bath or Shower: Use lukewarm water to avoid shocking your skin. Adding oatmeal or baking soda to the bath can further soothe irritation.
Apply Cold Compresses: Use a clean, soft cloth soaked in cool water and apply it to the affected areas. Avoid using ice directly on the skin as it can cause more damage.

Hydrate Your Skin

After cooling, apply a moisturizer to lock in moisture and prevent your skin from drying out.

Use a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer
Aloe vera gel is a popular choice due to its natural soothing and healing properties

Stay Hydrated

Sunburn draws fluid to the surface of your skin and away from the rest of your body. Drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids and prevent dehydration.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Non-prescription pain relievers can help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

Ibuprofen or aspirin are effective choices
Follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns

Avoid Further Sun Exposure

Keep the affected area out of the sun to prevent worsening the burn

Wear loose, breathable clothing that covers the sunburned skin
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher if you need to be outdoors

Resist the Urge to Pick or Peel

As your skin heals, it may start to peel. Avoid picking at peeling skin, as this can lead to infection or scarring.

Allow the peeling process to happen naturally
Keep your skin moisturized to minimize peeling and promote faster healing

Know When to See a Doctor

While most sunburns heal on their own, some cases require medical attention.

Seek help if you experience severe blistering, fever, chills, or signs of infection such as pus or increased redness
Extensive burns covering a large portion of your body should also be evaluated by a healthcare professional

Bonus Tips for Prevention

To avoid future sunburns:

Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours or after swimming
Wear UPF 50+ protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses
Seek shade during peak sun hours (10am to 4pm)

Final Thoughts

Sunburns may be common, but they’re preventable with proper precautions. If you do find yourself burned, following these methods can help ease the pain and speed up recovery. Treat your skin gently, stay hydrated, and prioritize sun protection to keep your skin healthy and happy.