Sunburn: Fast Relief, Prevention, and When to See a Doctor

Sunburn stings, peels, and leaves you miserable. The fastest relief comes from cooling the skin and stopping more damage. Right after you notice redness, move out of the sun, take a cool shower or apply a cool, damp cloth for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid ice directly on skin; that can harm tissues.

For pain and swelling, use an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed. Drink extra water — sunburn pulls fluid to the skin and can dehydrate you. Apply a gentle moisturizer with aloe vera or glycerin while the skin is still damp to lock in moisture. Skip creams with perfumes, dyes, or benzocaine, which can irritate or cause allergic reactions.

Blisters mean second-degree sunburn. Do not pop blisters. If a blister breaks, clean the area, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover with a sterile, nonstick bandage. Large or numerous blisters, trouble breathing, confusion, fainting, or a fever over 101°F (38.3°C) means see a doctor or go to urgent care.

Quick First Aid

Cold compresses, pain relievers, and hydration are your starting points. A single short course of 1% hydrocortisone cream can help itching, but don’t use strong steroids without medical advice. If you have chronic skin conditions, are on medications that increase sun sensitivity, or your burn covers a large area, call your healthcare provider.

Prevention That Works

Sunscreen is nonnegotiable. Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply 15 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Wear a wide-brim hat, long sleeves, and UV-blocking sunglasses when possible. Shade, timing, and fabric choice matter: UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and tightly woven or darker fabrics block more rays.

As skin peels, keep treating gently. Moisturize regularly and avoid picking at flakes. Use a gentle cleanser and skip exfoliants until skin heals. If scarring or persistent redness occurs, see a dermatologist — early treatment can reduce long-term pigment changes. Remember: repeated sunburns increase your risk of skin cancer, so treat prevention like a daily habit, not an occasional chore.

Quick checklist: get out of the sun, cool the skin, hydrate, take pain relief if needed, use gentle moisturizer, leave blisters alone, and see a doctor for severe symptoms. Follow these steps and you’ll heal faster and lower the chance of future damage.

If you prefer products, look for unscented aloe gel or lotions with ceramides to repair the skin barrier. Oral antihistamines like cetirizine can reduce itching overnight. Avoid using oils on fresh burns because they can trap heat. For kids and pregnant people, be extra cautious: use shade, protective clothing, and sunscreen made for sensitive skin. Certain antibiotics and acne drugs make you more sun-sensitive — check with your pharmacist. When in doubt, call your clinic. A quick phone photo of the burn can help a nurse advise whether you need a visit. Small, smart steps now prevent weeks of discomfort later. Prioritize protection each time you go.