Sunburn: How to Prevent It, Soothe It, and Keep Your Skin Happy

We all love a good day in the sun, but a painful burn can ruin the fun fast. The good news is you don’t need a PhD to protect your skin or calm a burn. Below are straightforward steps you can start using right now.

Smart Ways to Stop Sunburn Before It Happens

First off, pick a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and make sure it’s broad‑spectrum. Slap it on 15 minutes before you head out and reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. A common mistake is thinking a higher SPF means you can stay longer without reapplying – it doesn’t.

Wear protective clothing like a wide‑brimmed hat, UV‑blocking sunglasses, and long‑sleeve tops when the sun is strongest (usually 10 am‑4 pm). Even a cheap, tightly‑woven shirt can block up to 90% of UV rays.

Shade matters too. If you’re at the beach, set up an umbrella or sit under a palm tree for at least part of the day. When you’re out for a quick errand, look for shady sidewalks or park trees. The goal is to give your skin a break every now and then.

Fast Relief for a Sunburn That’s Already Happening

If you notice reddening or a hot feeling, cool the skin right away. A gentle shower with lukewarm water or a cold compress for 10‑15 minutes can lower temperature without shocking the skin.

After cooling, apply a soothing moisturizer that contains aloe vera, cucumber, or soy. These ingredients calm inflammation and keep the skin from drying out. Avoid petroleum‑based ointments; they can trap heat.

Stay hydrated. Sunburn pulls fluid out of your skin, so drinking water, coconut water, or electrolyte drinks helps your body recover faster. Aim for at least eight glasses a day until the burn clears.

For pain, over‑the‑counter anti‑inflammaries like ibuprofen or naproxen work well. Take them with food and follow the label instructions. If blisters form, don’t pop them – they protect the new skin underneath.

In the next 24‑48 hours, keep the area clean and avoid tight clothing that can rub the skin. If the burn is severe, spreads to large areas, or you develop fever, see a healthcare professional.

Finally, remember that prevention is cheaper than treatment. A few minutes of sunscreen, a hat, and a quick shade break can save you days of discomfort and keep your skin looking healthy for years.