Sunburn Management: Symptom Relief and Healing Support

Immediate Cooling

• Cool (not ice-cold) compresses or cool bath/shower 10–15 min, several times daily.
• Do not apply ice directly – risk of thermal injury.

Topical Treatments

• Aloe vera gel (pure, fragrance-free) – anti-inflammatory, soothing.
• Hydrocortisone 1% cream – for significant inflammation (OTC; short-term).
• Moisturizers with ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, soy – restore barrier.
• Avoid petroleum-based products (trap heat), lidocaine/benzocaine (sensitization risk).

Systemic Measures

• Hydration: Oral fluids (water, electrolyte solutions) – sunburn draws fluid to skin.
• NSAIDs: Ibuprofen 400–600 mg q6h or naproxen 220 mg q8h (start early) – reduce prostaglandin-mediated inflammation/pain.
• Antihistamines (oral) – may reduce pruritus.

What to Avoid

• Further sun exposure (cover up, SPF 30+ broad-spectrum).
• Peeling/blister popping – increases infection risk, scarring.
• Topical anesthetics, alcohol-based products, heavy occlusive ointments.

When to Seek Medical Care

• Blistering >20% BSA, or blisters on face, hands, genitals.
• Fever >101°F (38.3°C), chills, severe pain.
• Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, purulent drainage).
• Dehydration (dizziness, oliguria, confusion).
• Photosensitivity disorders (lupus, porphyria) or medications (tetracyclines, thiazides).

Sunburn cannot be "cured" instantly; treatment supports healing while the epidermis regenerates (3–7 days for mild, weeks for severe).