Buzz
Just gazing at that angry red sunburn is enough to make you feel the pain.We've all been there, especially as teenagers when “signs of aging” were nothing more than the sight of mom jeans and reading glasses. The pursuit of the perfect tan can sometimes backfire, or we might forget the sunscreen at home – and that’s when the sunburn strikes, bringing with it a sharp sting.
A sunburn signals damage to your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The redness shows your skin’s attempt to heal. This damage can have long-lasting and serious consequences, such as skin cancer, along with visible signs of aging like wrinkles and age spots, which may appear years later. In the short term, it’s a painful, red, peeling, and blistering experience that leaves you wondering how to dress, move, or cleanse without discomfort.
While dressing and moving around can be difficult after a severe sunburn, washing yourself can be surprisingly manageable if you follow a few simple steps. Here’s how to cleanse (and feel a little more comfortable) when your skin is roasted.
First off, skip the shower. The water pressure could make it worse. What you actually need is a bath.
But not the hot bath you’re used to. You’ll want a cool bath (not ice-cold). Soaking in cool water for at least 10 minutes can help draw out the heat and calm the burning sensation. Avoid soap on sunburned skin as it could irritate it. Don’t scrub or shave, and gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel—no rubbing.
Use the bath time not just to clean but also to soothe your skin. Add 1/4 cup of baking soda or 2 cups of apple cider vinegar to the water to alleviate pain and possibly speed up healing [source: Candee].
After the bath, apply an over-the-counter product. The best options are fragrance-free, aloe-based lotions, quality moisturizers, or calamine lotion. Steer clear of products with benzocaine, as they can cause a rash [source: UI]. Yogurt or fresh aloe vera (straight from the plant) can also do wonders for your skin.
In most cases, home remedies are enough to manage the discomfort of sunburn for a few days. However, if the burn is severe, medical attention may be required. Always contact a doctor if you experience a high fever, extreme sensitivity to light, pus, large blisters, or if the burn doesn’t start to improve within a few days.
