8 Sunburn Tips for Quick and Effective Relief

Sunburn can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. The good news is that there are effective ways to find relief and prevent it from happening again in the future. But first, you may be wondering what exactly is sunburn and why does it happen?

“Ultraviolet radiation energy damages DNA in the skin, leading to an inflammatory response with the synthesis of prostaglandins and cytokines and swelling of skin blood vessels...this causes redness, swelling and pain. Sometimes involved skin cells are destroyed.” -Dr. Samer Jaber, dermatologist at the Icahn School of Medicine/Today.com

Now that you have a basic understanding of how sunburn affects your skin, let's move on to relief. You first need to know the importance of starting the healing process promptly. Next, follow the tips below to sooth and calm the injury to your skin.

How to Relieve Sunburn - 8 Best Tips

1. Cool Down Your Skin Temperature

When it comes to soothing sunburned skin, one effective strategy is to reduce your skin's temperature. The intense heat from the sun causes inflammation and discomfort, so cooling down the affected area can provide relief. To achieve this, you can take a cool bath or shower, making sure the water is not too cold as it may aggravate the burn. Alternatively, you can apply cold compresses or gently place a damp, cool towel on the sunburned skin. This helps constrict the blood vessels, reduce swelling, and alleviate the burning sensation.

2. Keep off Ointments Containing Irritating Ingredients

When seeking relief for sunburn, it's crucial to be mindful of the products you apply to your skin. Avoid using ointments or creams that contain irritating ingredients, as they can exacerbate the discomfort and potentially prolong the healing process. Some ingredients to watch out for include fragrances, alcohol, menthol, and benzocaine. 

3. Moisturize Your Skin

One essential step in recovering from sunburn is to replenish and moisturize your skin. Apply the moisturizer generously to the affected areas, ensuring that it is absorbed into the skin. This will help alleviate dryness, reduce peeling, and promote the healing of sun-damaged skin.

4. Find Relief from Sunburn Pain

Sunburn can often be accompanied by significant pain and discomfort. Fortunately, there are several methods to help alleviate the pain associated with sunburned skin. One effective approach is to take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the recommended dosage instructions. Additionally, applying aloe vera gel or a soothing moisturizer can also provide a cooling sensation and help ease the discomfort. 

5. Utilize An Itch Relief Treatment for Comfort

Applying an itch relief treatment can help alleviate this discomfort and prevent excessive scratching that can further damage the skin. Look for over-the-counter creams or lotions containing ingredients like hydrocortisone or calamine, which have soothing properties. Home remedies for sunburn that can offer minimal help are a compress with cold milk or plain yogurt.

6. Refrain From Touching or Popping Blisters

When dealing with sunburn blisters, it is crucial to resist the urge to touch or pop them. Popping or touching the blisters can increase the risk of infection and delay the healing process. Instead, allow the blisters to heal on their own.

7. Maintain Proper Hydration for Sunburn Recovery

One often overlooked aspect of sunburn recovery is maintaining proper hydration. It is essential to drink plenty of water and hydrating fluids to replenish the lost moisture and support the healing process.

8. Know When to Seek Medical Attention 

While most cases of sunburn can be effectively treated at home, there are certain situations where it is necessary to consult a healthcare professional. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms that indicate a need for medical attention. If you experience severe sunburn with extensive blistering, intense pain, or symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, or dizziness, it is recommended to seek medical help. 

How To Prevent Accidental Sunburn

To protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent accidental sunburn, it is essential to apply sunscreen every day. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are sweating or swimming. Sunscreen mists such as ZINC IT OVER, are an excellent and convenient way to make, what many view as a chore, a fun and pampering experience.

One effective way to prevent accidental sunburn is to actively seek shade whenever possible. Shade provides a physical barrier between your skin and the sun's harmful UV rays, reducing your overall sun exposure. Investing in beach umbrellas or beach tents is a great and convenient way to stay in the shade while enjoying watching the waves.

Another crucial step in preventing accidental sunburn is to wear protective clothing. Choose clothing with a tight weave or UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for enhanced sun protection. Additionally, wear sunglasses with UV protection to safeguard your eyes from harmful UV rays. By dressing appropriately in sun-protective clothing, you can create an effective barrier against the sun's damaging effects and reduce the risk of sunburn.

Through taking proactive measures such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen daily, you can effectively prevent and alleviate the discomfort of sunburn. Prioritizing sunburn relief and prevention is essential for maintaining healthy skin and enjoying the sun responsibly.