Get a little too much sun this Memorial Day weekend? It happens to the best of us. While prevention with sunscreen, ultraviolet (UV)-blocking clothing, and staying out of the sunlight is the best strategy, it’s no comfort when you’re already suffering from a nasty sunburn. Extended exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can lead to sunburn, leaving the skin red, painful, and sensitive. Treating sunburn promptly and correctly is essential to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
The good news is that most sunburns will go away on their own within a few days, though you may have peeling of the skin for up to a week afterward. The bad news is that you’ll have to deal with the pain and discomfort before that happens. While there are a variety of products available that claim to help with treatment of sunburn, what actually works? In this article, we will explore some effective methods to treat sunburn and help your skin recover.
- Get Out of the Sun
As soon as you notice signs of sunburn, it’s crucial to minimize further sun exposure. Seek shade or head indoors to prevent further damage to your skin. Staying out of the sun allows your skin to begin the healing process without additional UV radiation. - Use Cool Compresses to Relieve Pain
Cool compresses are a simple yet effective way to relieve the heat and pain associated with sunburn. Take a clean cloth or towel, soak it in cool water, and gently apply it to the affected area. This will help to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief. Avoid using ice directly on the skin as it can cause further damage. You can repeat using cool compresses as much as you need to in order to get relief. - Hydrate – and avoid further dehydration
Sunburn draws moisture away from the skin, causing dehydration. To combat this, drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated from the inside out. At the same time, you’ll want to avoid drinking anything that will dehydrate you further – namely alcohol. Proper hydration aids in skin healing and helps to replenish lost fluids. In some very severe cases of sunburn accompanied by heat stroke, fluids through an IV may be necessary. - Moisturize
Sunburned skin requires extra moisture from the outside as well to prevent dryness and peeling. Apply a gentle, alcohol-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel to the affected area. These products can help soothe the skin, lock in moisture, and promote healing. Avoid using petroleum-based products as they can trap heat and delay healing. - Use Over-the-Counter Medicines for Pain and Discomfort
If you experience pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful. In addition to cool compresses, aloe vera gel or calamine lotion can help to soothe skin irritation as well. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions and follow a healthcare provider’s instructions if you have an underlying medical condition before trying these medications. - Avoid Harsh Soaps and Fragrances
While your skin is healing from sunburn, it becomes more sensitive. To prevent further irritation, avoid using harsh soaps, perfumes, or products containing alcohol. Opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers when washing the affected area. While it might seem like a good idea to use exfoliants to get rid of peeling skin, washing with abrasives can irritate your skin more, and should be avoided. Instead, allow skin to peel naturally. Gentle care will help protect your skin’s natural barrier, preventing complications like infections. - Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing
When treating sunburn, choose loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton for comfort. Tight or synthetic materials can further irritate the skin and impede the healing process. Protecting sunburned areas from direct sunlight is crucial during recovery – using UV-blocking clothing, large hats, and staying out of the sun will help you recover faster. - Stay Hygienic
To prevent infection, keep the sunburned area clean. Gently wash the affected skin with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the area vigorously, and do not pop blisters – allow them to pop on their own. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel, as excessive rubbing can cause pain and irritation. - Avoid Sunburn Remedies Without Scientific Backing
While there are numerous home remedies and folk remedies that claim to treat sunburn effectively, it’s essential to rely on scientifically backed methods. Some unproven remedies may actually exacerbate the condition or delay healing. Stick to well-established treatments and consult a healthcare professional if you have any doubts. - Seek Medical Attention for Severe Sunburn
In most cases, sunburn can be treated at home with self-care methods. However, if you experience severe symptoms such as blistering, intense pain, fever, or signs of infection, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can assess the severity of the burn and provide appropriate treatment.
Once your sunburn has resolved, keep in mind these bonus tips for preventing sunburn for the rest of the summer:
- Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens. Be sure to apply sunscreens 15 to 30 minutes prior to sun exposure, with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or greater, and reapply periodically throughout the day, at least every two hours. You may need to apply sunscreen more frequently if you are swimming or exerting yourself, as this can wash off the protective coating that sunscreen provides.
- Consider UV-Blocking Clothing. There are a variety of products available to help protect your skin from the sun in addition to sunscreen. Large hats, long-sleeve shirts, and UV-blocking clothes are great ways to further reduce your risk of a sunburn.
- Seek out Shade. Don’t neglect the power of shade either – beach umbrellas, tents, and tarps can all get you into the shade and away from the sun’s rays. Taking a break to cool down indoors will cut down on your sun exposure.
Sunburn is a common summer woe, but with the right approach, it can be effectively treated. By promptly taking action with the steps above, you can get good relief from your symptoms and prepare yourself for future outdoor gatherings!