What you should do if you’ve been sunburned:
- Get out of the sun immediately at the first sign, find shade or go indoors.
- Cool your skin down take a lukewarm to cool shower (not ice-cold), but keep it brief to avoid drying out.
- Moisturize with a soothing lotion or gel apply while your skin is still slightly damp, ideally with aloe vera, soy, or oat-based ingredients.
Recommended products:
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- Take an anti-inflammatory ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce swelling and pain.
- Stay well hydrated drink plenty of water; sunburn draws moisture from your body.
- Wear loose, soft clothing avoid rubbing against burnt skin.
- Leave blisters alone don’t pop them. If they break, protect with petroleum jelly and a non-stick bandage.
- For itching use 1% hydrocortisone cream for up to three days.
What you shouldn’t do:
- Avoid petrolatum or benzocaine products, they trap heat and can cause allergic reactions.
- Don’t rub, scrub, or peel, the skin’s barrier is already damaged.
- Don’t pick at peeling skin or pop blisters, risk of scarring or infection.
- Avoid sun exposure until your skin fully heals, it delays recovery and increases damage risk.
Prevention is key:
Apply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 (SPF 50 for the face), 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours or after swimming/sweating. Don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, or cap.
Why this matters:
These simple, effective steps protect your skin and prevent painful sunburn. Add sunscreen, after‑sun care, and cooling gels, like those from La Roche-Posay Anthelios, Avène, and Vichy to your summer beauty kit. Plus, catch the best summer deals on Beauty Plaza and score free gifts with every order!