Sunburns can be a major source of discomfort, and if left untreated, can cause lasting damage to your skin. Here are a few tips to help soothe sunburns, prevent further injury, and help you recover quickly.

1. Cool Down

The first step in sunburn relief is to cool down your skin as quickly as possible. As tempting as a cold shower may be, you should instead lightly wet a towel or cloth with cool (not cold) water and hold it against your skin. You can also try dipping in a cool bath for relief.

To further cool down sunburns, keep a gel-filled ice pack in the refrigerator for fast relief—just make sure it’s not too cold against your skin! Additionally, try applying a cool, non-oil based lotion, such as aloe vera, to your skin to help soothe the heat.

2. Hydrate

When you’ve been out in the sun for too long, your skin and body can become severely dehydrated. To help restore your body’s electrolytes and minerals, drink plenty of water and electrolyte-enhanced drinks, such as coconut water. The helps replenish your body’s water levels and aids with healing your skin.

3. Moisturize

Moisturizing your skin helps keep it hydrated, an important factor in helping to heal sunburns. The best moisturizer for sunburns is a non-oil based one, such as petroleum or beeswax. You can also look for moisturizers that contain ingredients such as aloe vera and green tea, which help soothe irritated skin. Additionally, apply a moisturizer while your skin is still damp from a cool bath or shower to lock in moisture.

4. Use Sunscreen

It may seem counterintuitive to use sunscreen to treat a sunburn, but wearing sunscreen can actually help keep the sunburn from further damaging your skin. Choose a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher for the best sun protection.

5. Avoid Irritation

When you’re dealing with a sunburn, it’s important to avoid any activities or items that could further irritate your skin. Avoid scented soaps, harsh cleaners, and perfumes, and instead opt for gentle, fragrance-free products. Steer clear of activities that can cause you to sweat or rub at your skin, such as intense exercise and tight-fitting clothes. Lastly, try to wait until it’s completely healed to swim in chlorinated pools or salt water.

Conclusion

Taking the proper steps to care for a sunburn can help promote healing and help to reduce the discomfort. Locate areas where you can stay cool, drink plenty of fluids, hydrate and moisturize your skin, use sunscreen, and avoid any activities or products that can cause further irritation or inflammation. By following these tips, you can take the necessary steps to help soothe your sunburn.