Quick Answer
For sunburn relief, try home remedies such as applying aloe vera gel or taking cool baths to reduce pain and inflammation. You can also use over-the-counter pain relievers and moisturize the affected area to speed up the healing process.
Cooling Down the Burn
Taking a cool bath or applying cool compresses can help reduce sunburn pain and inflammation. Fill a bathtub with cool water and add 1 cup of baking soda or 1 cup of oatmeal to help soothe the skin. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes, or apply a cool compress wrapped in a cloth for 15-20 minutes at a time. Repeat this process every few hours to keep the skin cool and calm.
Aloe Vera and Moisturizing
Aloe vera gel is a natural remedy for sunburn relief, and it can be found in most supermarkets or made at home by extracting the gel from aloe vera leaves. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the sunburned area 2-3 times a day to help reduce inflammation and promote healing. In addition to aloe vera, moisturizing the affected area with a gentle lotion or cream can help lock in moisture and soothe the skin. Apply moisturizer 2-3 times a day, or after bathing or showering to keep the skin hydrated and protected.
Pain Relief and Protection
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce sunburn pain and inflammation. Take the recommended dose as directed, and be sure to follow the instructions and any warnings on the label. In addition to pain relievers, protect the sunburned area from further sun damage by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating to keep the skin protected.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.