1. Take cools showers to help ease the pain. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that a gentle spray of cool water can help temporarily. She recommends a low pressure setting on your shower head to avoid stinging the wound.
2. Moisturize. One of the reasons that sunburns hurt so bad is that the sun draws moisture out of the skin. You can restore some of this by applying an alcohol-free aloe vera gel or lotion to the affected area. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that products without dyes or synthetic fragrance are best.
3. Reduce swelling with ibuprofen. Ibuprofen works by reducing inflammation and swelling.
4. Drink up. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, your body needs extra water when dealing with a sunburn. You may be at a greater risk of dehydration because of the burn plus your body needs the extra water to keep the skin moist from the inside out.
5. Avoid the temptation to pop blisters. Blisters are an indication that your sunburn has gone beyond mild and is more serious than a simple inconvenience. As much as they may hurt, don’t pop them, even if they interfere with getting dressed or laying down on your back. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that blisters are the body’s natural response to burns and add an extra layer of protection against infection.
6. Avoid re-exposure. Avoid direct exposure to the sun while your skin is still red. Wear light-colored clothing, a hat, and try to stay in the shade.
