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Beach days are all fun and games until your skin’s redder than a lobster at a seafood buffet and crisper than the chips on your plate. Who’s laughing? 😅
Oh, and that delightful sensation of trying to put on a shirt or, even worse, lying down to sleep? I know no better torture!
But don’t worry—we’ve got your back (literally).
Here are 9 easy and effective sunburn remedies to help you…
…soothe, heal, and get back to enjoying the summer without the burns.
1. Start with a Cold Compress or Cool Shower
The first step to calming that fiery sunburn is to cool things down (without freaking out your skin). A cold compress is your best friend here!
Simply soak a soft towel in cool water, wring it out, and apply it gently to the burned areas. This helps take down swelling, calm irritation, and ease the pain.
Pro tip:
- Don’t use ice directly on the skin! It can make things worse by damaging your delicate, already-irritated epidermis.
- Keep showers short and opt for cool (not freezing!) water to avoid further stress on your skin.
Need an extra soothing boost? Add oatmeal or baking soda to your bathwater for extra relief. Post-rinse, gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it with a towel.
2. Aloe Vera = Nature’s Superhero
When it comes to natural sunburn remedies, aloe vera is the GOAT. Whether it’s straight from the plant or a 100% pure gel, aloe vera has cooling, anti-inflammatory magic that instantly soothes sunburn.
Plus, it helps your skin heal faster and prevents peeling. Win-win, right?
How to use it:
- If you’ve got an aloe vera plant, just cut a leaf, scoop out the gel, and gently apply it to your burn.
- If you’re using store-bought gel, make sure it’s free from alcohol or artificial fragrances (those can sting!).
- Reapply gently, as often as you like.
Pro tip: Stash your aloe gel in the fridge for an extra cooling effect. Trust us, your skin will thank you!
3. Cucumber Slices or Paste
Cue the cucumber magic! Not just for spa facials, cucumbers are loaded with water and antioxidants that cool your burn and reduce inflammation. Plus, they feel oh-so-refreshing. It’s like a mini spa day for your skin!
How to use it:
- Slice up a chilled cucumber and layer the pieces directly on the affected areas.
- Or blend cucumbers and very little water into a paste and apply as a soothing mask for wider coverage.
Pro tip: If you’re feeling fancy, add a splash of aloe vera gel to the paste for an ultimate cooling combo.
4. Sweet Relief with Honey
Honey isn’t just for tea or toast. This golden nectar is a natural humectant, which means it locks in moisture and promotes healing.
Its antibacterial properties also help prevent infection if your sunburn starts to blister.
How to use it:
- Gently spread a thin layer over the sunburned area.
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
Pro tip: Go for raw, unprocessed honey for the best results. Bonus? It smells amazing!
5. Moisturize RELIGIOUSLY
Sunburn sucks the life (and moisture) out of your skin. A high-quality, alcohol-free moisturizer is your savior to keep your skin hydrated and prevent peeling. Reapply multiple times a day for best results.
Pro tip: Look for something with soothing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, ceramides, aloe vera or chamomile, and pat it on gently instead of rubbing it in.
Want bonus points? Apply your moisturizer when your skin is still slightly damp after showering for maximum hydration.
6. Hydrate Like Crazy
One of the biggest mistakes post-sunburn is forgetting to hydrate from the inside. Your body loses a ton of moisture when your skin’s been scorched by the sun, so grab that water bottle and start sipping.
Drinking lots of water will help replenish your skin and speed up your healing process. Coconut water, herbal teas, and even fresh fruit like watermelon are fun alternatives if plain water feels too boring.
Pro tip:
- Add a twist of lemon or cucumber to your water for a refreshing detox!
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine while you’re recovering; they dehydrate you even further.
7. Painkillers (Because, Ouch)
If your sunburn feels more like sun-ouch, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce the inflammation and discomfort. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions and consult your doctor if you’re unsure.
Some anti-inflammatory gels can be applied directly to the skin. They bring relief without any greasy residue!
8. Say “No” to Peeling & Blisters
We know, it’s so tempting to peel or pop those little blisters. But please, resist the urge! Popping can delay healing and invite infections. Instead, focus on keeping the area clean, moisturized, and protected.
If blisters have already formed, protect them with a soft, breathable bandage to stave off infections.
9. Cover It Up & Stay in the Shade
The last thing burnt skin needs is more sun. Rock a lightweight, long-sleeved top, grab a cute hat, and stay under that umbrella.
What NOT to Do?
Sometimes, what you avoid is just as important as what you do. Steer clear of these common sunburn no-nos:
- Petroleum jelly: It traps heat and makes your burn worse!
- Harsh soaps or scrubs: Your skin is already annoyed; give it a break!
- Ice directly on the skin: Feels great for a second, but you’ll regret it later.
- Alcohol-based products: These dry out your skin and make it extra sensitive.
When to See a Doctor?
While most sunburns heal on their own, some cases need a little extra attention. Here’s when to call for backup:
- You’re feeling dizzy, nauseous, or have developed a fever.
- Your sunburn is covered in large blisters or feels more like a third-degree burn.
- The pain feels unbearable or doesn’t improve after a few days.
Okay, now that we’ve covered how to soothe your sunburn, can we all pinky promise to never forget sunscreen again? Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (or higher!) is your new BFF.
Reapply every two hours and right after swimming. Oh, and don’t forget areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.
