{"id":1165908,"date":"2025-12-20T07:07:35","date_gmt":"2025-12-20T04:07:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1165908"},"modified":"2025-12-20T07:07:35","modified_gmt":"2025-12-20T04:07:35","slug":"12-dermatologist-recommended-tips-for-healing-a-sunburn-fast","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1165908","title":{"rendered":"12 Dermatologist-Recommended Tips for Healing a Sunburn Fast"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\n
\n

12 Dermatologist-Recommended Tips for Healing a Sunburn Fast<\/h1>\n
\n
\n
\n
By<\/span><\/p>\n
Sara Spruch-Feiner<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n
\"Sara\"Sara<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nSara Spruch-Feiner\n<\/div>\n
\n
    \n
  • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
    \nSara is a contributing writer for Byrdie, who primarily covers skincare. She has worked in beauty editorial for a decade and has contributed to publications like Marie Claire, Allure, and Racked.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Updated on December 01, 2022 03:49PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    Medically reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n
    Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD<\/p>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \"Dr.\"Dr.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Medically reviewed by<\/span>
    \nRachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD\n<\/div>\n
    \n
      \n
    • \n
    • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
      \nRachel is a board-certified dermatologist and Assistant Clinical Professor at Mount Sinai Hospital Department of Dermatology. She has contributed to Byrdie, as well as Harpers Bazaar, Marie Claire, Allure, Vogue, and the New York Times, and more\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      \nABOUT BYRDIE’S BEAUTY & WELLNESS BOARD\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      Board-Certified Dermatologist<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
      Fact checked by<\/span><\/p>\n
      Aimee Simeon<\/p>\n
      \n
      \n
      \n
      \"Aimee\"Aimee<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      Fact checked by<\/span>
      \nAimee Simeon\n<\/div>\n
      \n
        \n
      • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
        \nAimee has been in beauty editorial for over six years and was senior beauty editor at Byrdie from June 2021 to December 2023.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
        \nLEARN ABOUT BYRDIE’S EDITORIAL GUIDELINES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
        \n
        \n
        \n
        \n
        \n
        \"applying\"applying<\/div>\n<\/div>
        <\/p>\n

        Stocksy<\/p>\n

        <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

        \n

        Any beauty junkie knows: a sunburn is not<\/em> a good thing (just like laying out in the sun to tan is not<\/em> a good thing). We know that SPF is essential for protecting us from damaging sun exposure\u2014which, worst case scenario, puts us at risk for skin cancer. But even the most diligent applier-and-re-applier of SPF has probably missed a spot at some point. And that\u2019s when you need a quick fix, because sunburns really hurt.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

        But first, what exactly is a sunburn and why do we get them? \u201cSunburn is an inflammatory reaction of the skin\u2019s outer layers by UV rays,\u201d explains Cambridge, Massachusetts-based board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Ranella Hirsch.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

        \n

        What Is a Sunburn?<\/h3>\n
        \n

        Sunburn is an inflammatory reaction of the skin\u2019s outer layers by UV rays. It is characterized by redness, skin peeling, swelling, and blisters. While sunburn can heal, some cells may have mutations that cannot be reversed and could turn cancerous.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \u201cMelanin is a skin pigment that protects the skin from damage caused by the sun.\u00a0It works by darkening your unprotected sun-exposed skin. Some people have more melanin, and their skin tends to get darker or tan, while others become sunburned.\u00a0But no matter which your skin is prone to, Hirsch emphasizes, \u201cBOTH are signs of cellular damage to the skin<\/strong>.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

        \u00a0\u201cThe sun produces ultraviolet radiation that reaches the skin and damages skin cells. This happens because the radiation causes changes in the DNA in skin cells, which results in the redness of a sunburn,\u201d she explains.\n<\/p>\n

        \u00a0Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to cool the burn and expedite the healing process. We spoke to a number of top dermatologists to get the scoop on how to deal when you\u2019re already burned\u2014and how to prevent it from happening in the future.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        \n
        01<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Immediately Remove Yourself from the Sun <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Get out of the sun as soon as you see a burn and stay out until it\u2019s completely healed. The rule of thumb, Hirsch says is to stay out of the sun as long as you are still red, pink, or peeling. \u201cWhen your skin is already battling sunburn injury, it’s much prone to sun damage\u2014more extensive this time,\u201d Henry warns.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        02<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Cool the Skin <\/span><\/h2>\n

        You\u2019ll want to get some cooling relief to your burn ASAP. Though perhaps we know this intuitively, Henry confirms that \u201ccold helps soothe inflammation, pain, and the stingy, itching sensation of sunburn.\u201d But make sure you don\u2019t apply ice, or an ice pack directly to the skin. \u201cInstead, wrap the cold compress in a towel or thick cloth and limit its application to 15 to 20 minutes at a time to prevent frostbite,\u201d she says, adding that you should wait one to two hours before reapplying it.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

        A cool shower is also recommended as it can \u201chelp wash away any chlorine or salt residue that might irritate your skin more,\u201d she says, noting that you should not, however, stay in the shower for too long, as that can be drying too. Finally, avoid using any harsh soap and do not scrub, both of which Henry says tend to cause further irritation.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        03<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Take a Milk or Oatmeal Bath <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Draw yourself one of these sunburn-soothing soaks. Option One: \u201cFinely ground oatmeal (called colloidal oatmeal in drugstores) has anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective at controlling inflammation and itchiness associated with sunburn, thanks to compounds called avenanthramides that block inflammation,\u201d explains New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry.\u201cMoreover, colloidal oatmeal can be especially helpful for soothing what is known as the Hell\u2019s itch\u2014an extremely painful, unrelenting itch that may happen very rarely a few days after the sunburn.\u201d The cherry on top: cool colloidal oatmeal baths also help moisturize your skin and bolster skin repair.\n<\/p>\n

        Burned and no oatmeal in sight? Don\u2019t worry. Try Hirsch\u2019s equal parts milk and cool-water bath. You don\u2019t need to soak for hours, she says. \u201cThe milk proteins and naturally-occurring lactic acid are very soothing,\u201d she explains.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        04<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Take Ibuprofen or NSAIDS <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Turns out more than just topical treatments can help alleviate the pain of a sunburn. \u201cA pain reliever like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) helps mitigate pain, inflammation, and redness,\u201d Henry says. But, act fast, she says: \u201cThe sooner you take it, the faster it will act to reduce your symptoms of sunburn. So, make it a point to take the first dose right away.\u201d After that, you can continue to take as needed and as directed\u2014but make sure not to take without eating something first as that can upset your stomach.\u00a0\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        05<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Rehydrate from the Inside Out <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Fact: your skin requires much more water when it\u2019s sunburned while it heals. \u201cWhen your skin is fighting the damage caused by the harmful ultraviolet rays, it needs extra hydration to replenish the fluids it lost while you were out in the sun,\u201d Henry explains. As soon as you realize you\u2019re burned, it\u2019s time to up your water intake. Hirsch notes that there are other ways to up your hydration ASAP too. Gatorade, Pedialyte, and even Pedialyte popsicles can help rehydrate, and \u201cwater-laden fruits and vegetables like watermelon and cucumber\u201d can help too.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        06<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Hydrate Externally as Well <\/span><\/h2>\n

        After showering, use a gentle moisturizer to help lock in hydration. Whenever you shower, gently pat your skin, and while it\u2019s still a little damp, quickly slather a gentle moisturizer (such as from the CeraVe line) to help lock in moisture and help with the dryness that can go hand-in-hand with sunburn. As much as it might feel weird, \u201ccontinue to moisturize your skin even during the peeling stage of sunburn,\u201d Henry says.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        07<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing <\/span><\/h2>\n

        This one might feel obvious when you\u2019re dealing with a burn, but spare your skin the spandex and reach for loose clothing. Look for things that are not only loose but also \u201csoft, breathable, and as covered-up as possible,\u201d Henry says.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        08<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Apply Aloe Vera <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Sunburns and aloe are like peanut butter and jelly\u2014most of us know they\u2019re a good match. \u201cThe cooling effect of the gel from this cactus plant can help heal first-and-second-degree burns and speed up healing,\u201d Henry explains. Be sure, however, to look for pure aloe vera: “Avoid anything that contains alcohol, as it can cancel out the moisturizing, soothing effects of this plant,\u201d she says. If you\u2019re lucky enough to have access to an actual aloe plant, that\u2019s even better!\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        09<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Mix Hydocortisone + Aquaphor <\/span><\/h2>\n

        New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Morgan Rabach recommends this drugstore-friendly blend you can create with things already in your medicine cabinet: Hydrocortisone 1% cream mixed with Aquaphor which, together, \u201ccan soothe inflammation and help the skin feel less dry and tight.\u201d (Note: this is only for adult skin.)\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        10<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Look for Products With Peptides <\/span><\/h2>\n

        You\u2019ve probably seen peptides mentioned in high-tech anti-aging skincare products. Turns out they have wound healing properties too. \u201cPeptides are small amino acid chains that are the building blocks of cells, so they work to rebuild damaged cells,” she explains. “We know they also can permeate into the dermis and help boost collagen synthesis.” Rabach recommends peptide-laced products like TNS Recovery by SkinMedica for all her patients dealing with the results of too much sun. We also like M-61\u2019s ultralight Hydraboost Collagen+Peptide Water Cream (which is a bit less of a splurge).\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        11<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Don’t Pick or Peel <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Let your skin be<\/em>\u2014and try not to pick while it heals. \u201cWhen a sunburn reaches its peeling stage, let the skin slough naturally,\u201d Henry says, and \u201cIf you have blisters, do not pick or pop them.\u201d Why? Because \u201cpopping a blister increases the chances of getting it infected.\u201d If a blister pops on its own, Henry recommends cleaning it with mild antibacterial soap and cool water and then layering on some petrolatum ointment and covering the site with a sterile, nonstick band-aid.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        12<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Lastly, Prevent a Burn From Happening Again <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Make sure to exercise caution before going back in the sun. Henry emphasizes the importance of \u201cwearing sun-protective clothing, including long sleeves, pants, and a broad-brim hat,\u201d as the most important preventative measure against sunburn. This should, of course, be coupled with applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF when you\u2019re out in the sun\u2014preferably SPF 30 or higher. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours especially after swimming or sweating!\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        Byrdie Editors Tested Dozens of Face Sunscreens\u2014These 9 Are the Best of the Best<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
        \n
        \n
        Read more:<\/div>\n
          \n
        • Skin<\/span><\/li>\n
        • Sun Care<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

          Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/sunburn-remedies-5070296<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

          12 Dermatologist-Recommended Tips for Healing a Sunburn Fast By Sara Spruch-Feiner Sara Spruch-Feiner Sara is a contributing writer for Byrdie, who primarily covers skincare. She has worked in beauty editorial for a decade and has contributed to publications like Marie Claire, Allure, and Racked. Byrdie’s Editorial Guidelines Updated on December 01, 2022 03:49PM Medically reviewed […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1165909,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83],"class_list":["post-1165908","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1165908","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1165908"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1165908\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1165909"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1165908"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1165908"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1165908"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}