Summer's here, and while soaking up the sun is enjoyable, returning home to a sunburn is not. That painful pink skin can be a real downer.
No worries—we've all been there! Here’s how to help your skin recover and minimize damage.
Cool Down with Water
You’ll want to try this because it’s incredibly soothing. Sunburns can keep your skin hot for a while after you’re back indoors. To alleviate the discomfort, cool your skin with cold water. A cool bath or shower works wonders, or you can apply cold compresses. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing.
Lock in Moisture
Sunburns drain moisture from your skin, which can be quite visible. One of the first things you should do post-burn is to apply a moisturizer to replenish hydration. Do this right after your cool shower or compress to trap that refreshing moisture. Opt for a calming moisturizer if possible.
Bonus tip: Hydration is essential! Drink plenty of water since sunburn can lead to dehydration.
Select Soothing Products Wisely
If you ask people how to treat a sunburn, you’ll likely receive various suggestions. The best options? Aloe products or, for severe burns, over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.
Equally critical is knowing what to avoid. Stay away from petroleum jelly, which can trap heat, and products containing “-caine” (like benzocaine or lidocaine) that may irritate your skin or cause allergic reactions. Also, skip anything with alcohol, egg whites, or vinegar.
Give Your Skin Some Time
Continue your usual skincare routine, but steer clear of irritating products like exfoliants, retinol, or scented items. Wait at least a week before reintroducing them, especially if your burn is severe.
Be Extra Careful
Protecting your skin from sun damage should always be a priority, especially when it’s already burned. Here’s how to take extra precautions:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
- Wear sun-safe clothing
- Opt for a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses to shield your face and eyes
- Stay in the shade as much as possible when outdoors
Keep Blisters Safe
If your sunburn is severe, blisters may form—this indicates a second-degree burn. Protect these blisters, as they are your body’s way of healing. If they burst, healing will take longer and increase the risk of scarring or infection. Wear loose clothing to avoid irritation, and consider covering them with gauze.
Don’t Peel
Should your skin begin to peel during recovery, resist the temptation to pick at it. Peeling prematurely can expose tender skin that is still healing, making it vulnerable to further damage and inflammation.
Post-Sunburn Skin Recovery
While prevention is the best approach to sun damage, we all have moments when we get burned. If it happens, don't stress. Just follow these straightforward tips to support your skin’s healing and get back to enjoying your summer.
