Sunburn Relief: Effective Ways to Soothe and Heal Sunburned Skin

Sunburn is UV‑induced epidermal damage. Evidence‑based relief measures:

1. Cool Compresses: Cool (not ice‑cold) wet cloths or cool baths; 10–15 min, several times daily.
2. Moisturize: Fragrance‑free aloe vera gel, soy‑based, or ceramide‑containing lotions while skin is damp. Avoid petroleum‑based occlusives on acute burns.
3. Hydrate Orally: Increased fluid loss through damaged skin.
4. Anti‑Inflammatory Medication: Oral ibuprofen or aspirin (adults) reduces pain and inflammation; topical hydrocortisone 1% for limited areas.
5. Oatmeal Bath: Colloidal oatmeal soothes itching and inflammation.
6. Protect: Loose, UPF clothing; broad‑spectrum SPF 30+ on healed skin; avoid further sun exposure.
7. Don't Peel or Pop Blisters: Intact blisters are sterile dressings; if ruptured, clean gently, apply antibiotic ointment, non‑adherent dressing.

Seek Care For: Blistering >20% BSA, fever, chills, confusion, signs of infection (increasing pain, pus, red streaks), or sunburn in infant <1 year.