From the Guidelines
The most effective treatment for sunburn involves taking over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs, and applying topical treatments like aloe, honey, or petrolatum to improve healing time and reduce pain. When treating sunburn, it's essential to consider the severity of the burn and the potential for complications. According to the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1, over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs are well tolerated and generally recommended for burn pain.
Some key considerations for treating sunburn include:
- Removing jewelry before the onset of swelling to prevent constriction and vascular ischemia
- Applying topical treatments like aloe, honey, or petrolatum to improve healing time and reduce pain
- Taking over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs to manage pain and discomfort
- Drinking plenty of water to rehydrate the body, as sunburn draws fluid to the skin surface
- Avoiding further sun exposure until the burn heals by covering affected areas with loose, soft clothing
It's also crucial to recognize when to seek medical attention, such as in cases of severe sunburn with blisters, fever, severe blistering, extreme pain, or signs of heat exhaustion. The American Burn Association recommends that patients with second- or third-degree burns involving the face, hands, feet, and genitals and those involving >10% body surface area (5% in children) be treated in a specialized burn center 1.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Sunburn
- The recommended treatment for sunburn is primarily symptomatic, focusing on relieving symptoms such as erythema, pain, and pruritus 2, 3.
- Studies have shown that various pharmacologic agents, including corticosteroids, NSAIDs, antioxidants, antihistamines, and emollients, have little to no effect on decreasing recovery time or eliminating sunburn 2, 3.
- However, some research suggests that topical corticosteroids may provide mild improvement in sunburn symptoms, with one study finding that 0.1% methylprednisolone aceponate milk and 0.1% hydrocortisone 17-butyrate emulsion were safe and effective in reducing sunburn reaction 4.
- Aloe vera cream has been studied for its potential in preventing and treating sunburn, but one study found that it had no sunburn or suntan protection and no efficacy in sunburn treatment compared to a placebo 5.
- The best approach to treating sunburn is often considered to be prevention, with measures such as avoiding excessive sun exposure and using protective clothing and sunscreen 6.
- For mild to moderate sunburn, treatment may involve symptomatic relief with emollients and pain control via medications, while more severe cases may require additional medical attention 6.