{"id":1165930,"date":"2025-12-20T07:08:04","date_gmt":"2025-12-20T04:08:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1165930"},"modified":"2025-12-20T07:08:04","modified_gmt":"2025-12-20T04:08:04","slug":"scalp-sunburn-17-treatment-methods-approved-by-dermatologists","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1165930","title":{"rendered":"Scalp Sunburn: 17 Treatment Methods Approved by Dermatologists"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n<\/p>\n

Scalp Sunburn: 17 Treatment Methods Approved by Dermatologists<\/h1>\n
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By<\/span><\/p>\n
Lisa DeSantis<\/p>\n
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\"Lisa\"Lisa<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nLisa DeSantis\n<\/div>\n
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  • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
    \nLisa has worked in the beauty industry for 10+ years. She began her career in beauty and fashion at QVC on their public relations team and made the move to beauty editorial shortly after.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    and<\/span><\/p>\n
    Caitlin Duggan<\/p>\n
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    \"caitlin\"caitlin<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nCaitlin Duggan\n<\/div>\n
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    • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
      \nCaitlin is a contributing writer for Byrdie where she covers all things hair, from scalp health to the latest color trends.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      Updated on June 17, 2025 04:23PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      Reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n
      Lucy Chen, MD<\/p>\n
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      \n
      \"Byrdie\"Byrdie<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      Reviewed by<\/span>
      \nLucy Chen, MD\n<\/div>\n
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      Lucy Chen, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, FL. She specializes in Mohs surgery and cutaneous oncology.<\/p>\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<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"byrdie\"byrdie<\/div>\n<\/div>
      <\/p>\n

      @hollyrhue \/ Instagram<\/p>\n

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      Most of us have been there\u2013\u00a0we’ve wound up outside in the sun longer than anticipated and forgot to apply sunscreen entirely or simply missed the scalp. Because it’s usually covered by hair, it’s one of the easiest spots to miss, and because of that, it’s an area that’s often neglected, and thus is a popular area for sunburns, and for some, skin cancer, points out plastic surgeon Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS.\n<\/p>\n

      Even when you do apply SPF to protect your scalp, it can be easy to forget to reapply, and it’s hard to tell when you’re starting to burn since you can’t actually see this area. So while prevention\u2014wearing SPF 30 or higher, hats, and UPF clothing\u2014is the key, we gathered some advice from the experts on easy ways to treat a sunburned scalp. We spoke to several experts, including dermatologists and a certified trichologist, who provided 17 accessible remedies.\n<\/p>\n

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      Meet the Experts<\/p>\n

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      • Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD,\u00a0is a Harvard-trained dermatologic surgeon and the co-founder\/CEO of\u00a0Austin Skin.<\/li>\n
      • Mara C. Weinstein Velez, MD, FAAD,\u00a0is a board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetics and laser surgery at the University of Rochester Medical Center, in New York.<\/li>\n
      • Marie Hayag, MD, is a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City.<\/li>\n
      • Penny James is a trichologist (a hair and scalp expert) and founder of Penny James Trichology Center in New York City.<\/li>\n
      • Yannis Alexandrides, MD FACS, is a London-based plastic surgeon and founder of the skincare brand,\u00a0111skin.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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        01<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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        Stay Out of the Sun and Use Protective Measures\u2014Always <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Dermatologists will always recommend seeking shade, using SPF 30 or higher (at minimum), and wearing protective hats and UPF clothing whether you’re sunburned or not. But it’s especially important to practice these measures while your scalp and hairline are healing from a recent sunburn. Fortunately, both sunscreen formulas and protective hats have come a long way\u2014our favorite scalp sunscreens include easy-to-apply brush-on formulas that won’t leave your hair greasy, and our editors’ favorite sun hats are both efficacious and stylish.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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        02<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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        Shower in Cool Water <\/span><\/h2>\n

        The first thing to do in the event of a sunburn on the scalp or anywhere on the body is to attempt to halt the inflammatory process that is occurring on the cellular level, dermatologist, Kristina Collins, MD, explains. She recommends that you cool down the affected area with cool water, but avoid ice, which can actually worsen the damage from a burn. “If the burn is on the scalp, let cool water from the shower run over it until the sting is relieved (usually about 5 to 20 minutes, depending on severity).” Dermatologist, Mara C. Weinstein Velez, MD, also encourages a cool shower to soothe the scalp and hairline.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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        03<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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        Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medications <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Over-the-counter medications can help treat both the pain and inflammation of a sunburn.\u00a0“NSAIDS (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help reduce the pain associated with sunburn, but typically oral medications are not required to speed up healing time,” Dr. Weinstein Velez explains. Dr. Collins also recommends over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to slow the inflammation of the sunburn. Most people have these medications at home, and they can make sleeping with a sunburn more comfortable.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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        04<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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        Try a Cold Milk Dip <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Milk contains essential enzymes that may bond to the skin and speed up your skin’s ability to heal. We recommend two percent or whole for this treatment because the fat, protein, and pH have anti-inflammatory properties that help calm the skin. Dermatologist, Marie Hayag, MD, approves of using milk as an at-home sunburn treatment, though some experts point to the cool temperature as the real savior here and not necessarily the milk.\n<\/p>\n

        Utilizing the soothing powers of milk is pretty simple: dip a clean washcloth into cool milk, then gently press the milk-drenched cloth against your scalp for roughly five minutes. You can repeat this up to three times in a session, but any more is overkill.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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        05<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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        Use Cold Compresses <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Help relieve the pain of the burn with cool compresses a couple of times a day. Applying ice directly to the skin can do more harm than good, but cold compresses made with ice water can provide strong relief. Dr. Collins adds that you can also spray on soy milk using a spray bottle, or add soy milk to the cool compresses for added benefit.\n<\/p>\n

        To make an effective cool compress, Dr. Collins provided the following recipe:\n<\/p>\n

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        1. Add ice, water, and if desired, aloe or soy milk to a large bowl.<\/li>\n
        2. Place several soft cloths into the bowl to cool and soak.<\/li>\n
        3. Apply these to the skin for about 20 minutes. Repeat as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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          Byrdie Tip<\/p>\n

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          Soy protein can help hydrate skin and has even been found to enhance wound healing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          06<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Treat With Aloe Vera Gel <\/span><\/h2>\n

          Aloe vera gel is a must-have for burns all over the body. Aloe vera gel is moisturizing and helps to reduce inflammation, Dr. Weinstein Velez explains. The combination of hydration and anti-inflammatory properties makes aloe vera gel the perfect treatment for sunburn. Collins shares that, unlike some other treatments, aloe vera gel can be used several times per day after a burn.\n<\/p>\n

          Trichologist Penny James agrees, “I cannot say enough good things about Aloe vera,” she says. “Not only does it help heal burns faster, but the plant has impressive antioxidant and antibacterial effects that are perfect for the scalp.\u00a0To apply the gel, if you have a lot of hair, part the hair where your scalp is the most tender. Apply the gel to your index finger and gently rub it onto the affected area of the scalp, and use until conditions subside. If you don’t have a lot of hair, massage the gel all over your head\u2014and use a hat every time you go outside!”\n<\/p>\n

          In the first few days after a sunburn to the scalp and hairline, treatment of the burn should be your top priority. After your scalp has had time to heal, you can continue to apply aloe vera gel after diluting it with water to avoid weighing the hair down. “A messy bun or ponytail with a cloth headband can be a cute way to style while hiding emollients,” Dr. Collins recommends.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          07<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Try a Green Tea Rinse <\/span><\/h2>\n

          Green tea\u00a0naturally and effectively reduces inflammation, which makes it perfect for soothing an angry and itchy scalp.\u00a0When applied as a compress or rinse, green tea can help heal irritated skin and expedite recovery. Dr. Hayag also approves of this method.\n<\/p>\n

          For a rinse, you need to first brew green tea. If you’ve never done this, pour boiling water over a green tea bag and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Next, you will want to remove the bag and place the tea in the refrigerator to cool it. When you get in the shower, wash your hair as usual, making sure to cleanse and condition with an ultra-gentle shampoo and conditioner (we like Living Proof’s\u00a0Restore\u00a0line). Once you have towel-dried your hair, pour the lukewarm tea over it and lightly massage it into your scalp. Don’t rinse, and let your hair air-dry.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          08<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Apply Hydrocortisone Cream <\/span><\/h2>\n

          Dermatologists recommend applying a 1% or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream once a day as a remedy for sunburn of the scalp and hairline. Hydrocortisone is typically used to treat swelling, itching, and irritation. Hydrocortisone should never be used for more than seven days without consulting a doctor. Dr. Weinstein Velez says that if you do not see an improvement in your burn in 24\u201348 hours, call a board-certified dermatologist for a stronger prescription treatment option.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          09<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Cover With Occlusive Topicals <\/span><\/h2>\n

          After applying hydrocortisone cream, it is important to keep an emollient on the skin for hydration and to aid in recovery and reepithelialization (wound healing), Dr. Collins explains. “Gentle skin moisturizers like Aquaphor Healing Ointment or CeraVe Healing Ointment can help lock in moisture if skin is peeling,” she advises. Weinstein Velez agrees with both of these suggestions: “Use lotions containing ceramides, and if possible, apply to the scalp.\u00a0More occlusive topicals like Aquaphor (now comes in a spray that can be easily applied to the scalp), and Vaseline can also be used to lock in the moisture to help your skin heal.”\u00a0Occlusives aid in the healing process because they lock in moisture, and moist skin heals better.\n<\/p>\n

          The experts also stress that peeling sunburned skin should be avoided at all costs. When the skin is forcibly peeled, the surrounding skin can be damaged and raw, and healing skin can be exposed, Dr. Collins explains.\n<\/p>\n

          James adds, “As the burn starts to heal, the skin will flake. Do not scrub the scalp or use an anti-dandruff shampoo.”\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          10<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Avoid Heat Styling <\/span><\/h2>\n

          It is important to avoid any heat-styling tools while your scalp is healing, including hot rollers, curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers. Dr. Weinstein Velez also says to avoid hot showers during this time, as they will increase discomfort related to the sunburn and potentially cause further damage. Try to avoid complicated styling as well, as you may accidentally peel or irritate the burned skin when combing or brushing the hair.\n<\/p>\n

          Instead, try working an air-dry cream through damp hair for a low-maintenance style. We love the Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Air Dry Cream.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          11<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Stick With Gentle Cleansers <\/span><\/h2>\n

          Stick to gentle cleansers and skincare products while your skin is healing.\u00a0Dr. Weinstein Velez recommends that you avoid retinoids, acids, and any medicated topicals for acne (for example, a benzoyl peroxide wash or spot treatment). She also recommends avoiding highly fragranced or medicated shampoos and leave-in haircare products, which could potentially lead to more irritation.\u00a0The Vanicream Unscented Gentle Facial Cleanser is a great option.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          12<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Increase Your Water Intake <\/span><\/h2>\n
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          Byrdie Tip<\/p>\n

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          The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily\u00a0fluid\u00a0intake is about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) a\u00a0day\u00a0for men and about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) a\u00a0day\u00a0for women.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

          The skin heals from the inside out, so rehydrating a sunburned scalp and hairline starts with hydrating your body. The entire body becomes dehydrated during a burn, so you will need to drink extra daily water and electrolytes, Dr. Collins explains. Dr. Weinstein Velez also encourages those suffering from sunburn to increase their daily water intake.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          13<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Rosewater Spray <\/span><\/h2>\n

          Just as we use a face mist to give the facial skin a reset, a quick spritz can do the scalp some good, too. Especially if the scalp skin is experiencing a sunburn. Rosewater in particular can be used to soothe and depuff, notes Dr. Alexandrides. He recommends storing it in the fridge to up its soothing and depuffing properties, then bringing it with you on the go to mist throughout the day.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          14<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Calendula Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n

          While oil may not be at the top of the list of things you want to apply to your scalp and roots, calendula oil can have an anti-inflammatory effect, says Dr. Alexandrides. This can be a nice treatment for overnight\u2013\u00a0sleep with a shower cap over your oil treatment and wash in the morning. Bonus: it will likely leave your strands feeling smoother and looking shinier, too.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          15<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Thermal Spring Water <\/span><\/h2>\n

          Similar to a rosewater mist, a facial spray with thermal spring water can lend reparative benefits to a sunburned scalp. Minerals such as selenium, magnesium, and calcium help to hydrate and soothe, which is exactly what dry, inflamed, and red, sunburned skin craves. And the same tip goes for storing it in the fridge to help bring down inflammation and offer relief.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          16<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Oatmeal Rinse <\/span><\/h2>\n

          In the same way that an oatmeal bath is prescribed for someone with Chicken Pox, an oatmeal rinse can help to calm a sunburned scalp. Colloidal oatmeal, in particular, has soothing properties that can help alleviate the itch and inflammation of a sunburn. Try grinding oats into a fine powder and mixing with lukewarm water before applying to the affected area. Leave it on for 15-45 minutes for best results.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          17<\/span>of 17<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Witch Hazel Compress <\/span><\/h2>\n

          You likely already have this in your first aid kit or medicine cabinet, and if you’re trying to soothe your scalp while chilling at home, making a compress with witch hazel may be just what you need. The tannins in witch hazel are responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing swelling and discomfort. Simply pour some onto a paper towel or wash cloth and dab it on your scalp. This method would also benefit from refrigeration to amplify its ability to relieve discomfort and reduce swelling.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          Read more:<\/div>\n
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          • Hair<\/span><\/li>\n
          • Scalp Care<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

            Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/scalp-sunburn-5186840<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

            If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Scalp Sunburn: 17 Treatment Methods Approved by Dermatologists By Lisa DeSantis Lisa DeSantis Lisa has worked in the beauty industry for 10+ years. She began her career in beauty and fashion at QVC on their public relations team and made the move to beauty […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1165931,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83],"class_list":["post-1165930","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\/1165930","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=1165930"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1165930\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1165931"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1165930"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1165930"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1165930"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}