You can use a cool, damp towel applied to the affected area, but avoid any rubbing that may irritate the skin. Gently place the towel on the skin. Be sure that the temperature of the water is not too cold, as this can have negative effects on the skin immediately after a burn (cooling burned skin with excessive cold too rapidly slows down healing and increases the chances of a frostbite injury on top of the burn). [4] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source If the burn continues to cause irritation, you can relieve this by taking frequent showers or baths in cool (mildly cool) water. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Do not completely dry yourself out of the shower, but allow for a little moisture to remain to aid in healing.
Silver sulfadiazine (1% cream, Thermazene) can be used to treat sunburns. This acts as an antibiotic to help prevent infection around areas of compromised and damaged skin. Do not use this medication on your face. [6] X Research source While you may be tempted to pop the blisters yourself, you run a high risk of infection. Since the skin is already damaged, it does not fight off bacterial infections effectively. It is best to let your doctor treat the blisters, as she can provide a sterile environment and tools.
Apply the covered cold compress for 10 – 15 minutes several times a day. [9] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Generally, medical professionals recommend that aloe is best used for minor burns and skin irritations, and should never be applied to an open wound. For soy-based moisturizers, look for organic and natural ingredients on the label. A good example is the brand Aveeno, commonly found in most stores. Soy is a plant that has natural moisturizing capabilities, which helps your damaged skin maintain moisture and heal. Avoid lotions or creams that contain benzocaine or lidocaine. While once used commonly in the past, these can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Avoid using petroleum oil (also known by the brand Vaseline). Petroleum can clog pores and trap heat within the skin, preventing proper healing of your skin. [11] X Research source
Continue using aloe vera, soy moisturizer, or a mild lotion with oatmeal. These products are currently recommended by many doctors and they will help to keep your skin moisturized with minimal irritation so that your body can naturally heal. Continue taking cool showers or baths throughout the day if you are still feeling any burning. You can take multiple showers or baths to help the skin stay moisturized.
Wear fabrics over your sunburn that won’t irritate your skin (avoid wool and cashmere specifically). There is no “best” fabric, but a loose-fitting, comfortable, and breathable fabric (such as cotton) will keep you comfortable and may provide some additional protection from the sun. Wear a hat to help protect your face from damaging UV rays of the sun. The skin on your face is especially sensitive and protecting it from the sun with a hat is a good idea. When you are considering protective fabrics and clothing, a good test is to hold up the fabric to a bright light. The most protective clothing will have very little light penetration coming through. [12] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Avoid being outside between 10 am and 4 pm. These are peak hours for sunburn.
Ibuprofen — This is an over-the-counter medication that can help to reduce inflammation, redness, and pain. Ibuprofen for sunburns is generally taken by adults in 400mg doses every 6 hours for a short period of time. Follow instructions as indicated by your doctor or the manufacturer’s label. Children under 6 months old should not take Ibuprofen. Follow the instructions on the bottle. [14] X Research source Naproxen — Your doctor may alternatively prescribe this medication if ibuprofen hasn’t worked for you. The upside is that the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects will last longer once they begin. Naproxen can be found in over-the-counter medication such as Aleve. [15] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) and as such can cause some stomach discomfort. [16] X Research source
There are very few side effects of witch hazel and it is completely safe to use with children.
Blisters — you may experience itchiness and raised areas of your skin where you were excessively exposed to sunlight Rashes — along with blisters or bumps, it is common to see rashes that may or may not be itchy. these rashes can resemble eczema Swelling — there may be pain and redness in areas of excessive sunlight exposure Nausea, fever, headache, and chills — These symptoms may arise as a result of a combination of photosensitivity and exposure to heat If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away for further evaluation of the severity of your sunburn.
Hot, red, dry skin Rapid, strong pulse Extreme body temperatures Nausea or vomiting[19] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
