Aug. 3, 2023—We all know it's important to prevent sunburns to keep skin healthy. But even with the best intentions, more than 30% of adults report having at least one sunburn each year. That's why it's important to know what to do—and when it's time to seek help.
In most cases, you can treat a minor sunburn at home. Symptoms, such as reddened, sensitive skin, usually peak within 24 to 36 hours and resolve in three to five days, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
But to get rapid relief, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends treating sunburn right away—as soon as you notice it.
Treating sunburn right
The first step is to stop your burn from getting worse. Get out of the sun right away. Next, try these tips from the AAD and the Skin Cancer Foundation:
- Wet a soft cloth with ice water. Lay it gently over the burned area to cool the burn. Don't put ice directly on the skin, though. That can cause more damage.
- Take a cool bath or shower, then pat yourself almost dry, leaving your skin slightly damp. Apply a gentle moisturizer that contains aloe or soy to trap water on your skin to ease dryness. Repeat over the next few days to help keep the area moist.
- If a sunburned area is very uncomfortable, try an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. If you're helping a child with sunburn, check with their doctor first.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as naproxen, aspirin or ibuprofen, can help with discomfort, swelling or redness.
- Drink extra fluids to keep your whole body hydrated. Why is it important to stay hydrated? Sunburned skin pulls fluid to the surface and away from the rest of the body.
- Keep your skin out of the sun. Wear soft, loose clothing that doesn't irritate your sunburn.
It's also important to remember what not to do: Never pop sunburn blisters. According to the AAD, they form to help your skin heal and keep it infection-free.
Seek treatment for severe burns
If your sunburn is more severe, it may be time to see your doctor. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, you should seek medical help if you have:
- Blistering over a large portion of your body.
- Chills.
- Confusion.
- Fever.
- Signs of infection, such as pus or red streaks.
Prevention is best
Sunburn symptoms don't last long, but sunburns cause long-term skin damage, including discolored skin, wrinkles and an increased risk of skin cancer. Learn more about how the sun affects your skin—and how to protect yourself.
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