By Arthur Evans 
It happens to the best of us. Maybe you forgot to reapply sunscreen, or you thought the clouds would protect you. Hours later, your skin is red, hot, and aching. Sunburns aren’t just uncomfortable—they’re your skin’s way of screaming for help. So what really helps soothe the burn? And just as important—what should you avoid at all costs?
Here’s a clear, no-fluff guide to recovering from sunburn the right way.
1. Get Out of the Sun Immediately
It might seem obvious, but many people stay out longer than they should. As soon as you notice redness or feel your skin heating up, get into the shade or head indoors. Even light sun exposure after a burn can make it worse. Think of it like adding more fuel to an already burning fire—just don’t.
2. Cool Down the Skin—But Not With Ice
Your skin is inflamed, so cooling it helps. But never apply ice directly to a sunburn. It can damage already sensitive skin and even cause frostbite in extreme cases.
Instead, try these:
- Take a cool (not cold) shower or bath.
- Soak a clean washcloth in cool water and gently place it on the burned area.
- Add baking soda or colloidal oatmeal to your bath to reduce itchiness and inflammation.
Do this several times a day as needed.
3. Moisturize While Your Skin Is Still Damp
After a cool shower, pat your skin dry—don’t rub. Then apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration. This helps prevent peeling and supports healing.
The best choices include:
- Aloe vera gel (pure, without added alcohol or colors)
- Fragrance-free lotions with ceramides or glycerin
- Coconut oil (only after the heat has faded and the skin starts to dry out)
Avoid petroleum-based products during the early stages—they can trap heat in your skin.
4. Stay Hydrated—Inside and Out
Sunburn pulls fluid away from the rest of your body to help repair damaged skin. That’s why you might feel extra tired, dizzy, or thirsty after a burn. Drink plenty of water (more than usual) to help your body heal.
Also, eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, or oranges. These not only hydrate you but also supply vitamins that support skin repair.
5. Skip Harsh Soaps and Exfoliants
Your skin is in crisis mode—don’t make it worse with harsh cleansers. Bar soaps, body washes with fragrance, and anything with scrubbing beads can strip natural oils and irritate sensitive skin further.
Use:
- A mild, fragrance-free cleanser
- Lukewarm water
- A soft towel—no rubbing
Avoid exfoliating until your skin is fully healed. Yes, even if it’s starting to peel. Let it do so naturally.
6. Resist the Urge to Pop or Peel
Peeling is a natural part of the healing process, but don’t help it along. Pulling at the skin before it’s ready can cause scarring or infection.
If you have blisters, do not pop them. They’re there to protect the healing layers underneath. If a blister does break, gently clean the area and cover it with a sterile bandage to avoid infection.
7. Take Anti-Inflammatory Medications (If Needed)
If your sunburn is especially painful or swollen, an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Always take as directed.
These meds don’t just make you feel better—they can actually reduce how much skin damage occurs in the first 24 hours.
8. Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing
Tight clothes can rub against your sunburn and make it worse. Choose:
- Lightweight cotton
- Loose-fitting shirts or dresses
- Avoid synthetic fabrics that trap heat
If you need to go outdoors again, wear long sleeves and a wide-brim hat for extra protection.
9. Know When to See a Doctor
Sometimes, a sunburn is more serious than it looks. Call your healthcare provider if you notice:
- Severe blistering over a large area
- Fever or chills
- Dizziness, confusion, or nausea
- Signs of infection (oozing, extreme pain, or swelling)
Don’t tough it out—serious sunburns can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and skin infections.
Final Thoughts
Sunburns aren’t just a temporary discomfort—they’re a sign of skin damage that can add up over time. The best strategy? Prevent it in the first place. But if you do get burned, treat it like the injury it is. Cool it down, keep it hydrated, and give your skin time to heal.
Next time you head out, don’t forget the sunscreen, reapply every 2 hours, and wear that wide-brim hat proudly. Your future skin will thank you.