Treatment Guidelines for Sunburn
The most effective approach to sunburn treatment is immediate symptomatic management with cool compresses, moisturizers, NSAIDs for pain, and adequate hydration, while preventing further sun exposure. 1
Immediate Management of Sunburn
First-line Interventions
- Remove from sun exposure immediately and prevent further damage
- Cool the skin with cool (not cold) compresses or cool baths for 10-15 minutes
- Apply moisturizers liberally to affected areas, especially after bathing while skin is still damp
- Stay hydrated by drinking extra water to replace fluid losses
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce pain and inflammation
Topical Treatments
- Moisturizing lotions containing aloe vera can provide soothing relief
- Avoid products containing benzocaine or lidocaine as these can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions
- Topical corticosteroids may provide some relief when applied early, though evidence for their effectiveness is limited 2
- Avoid petroleum-based products which can trap heat and worsen symptoms
Severe Sunburn Management
For severe sunburn with blistering:
- Do not break blisters as this increases infection risk
- Cover blisters lightly with sterile gauze if they break
- Seek medical attention if sunburn is accompanied by:
- Extensive blistering
- Severe pain
- Facial swelling
- Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
- Signs of dehydration (dizziness, decreased urination)
- Signs of infection (increasing pain, swelling, warmth, red streaks)
Evidence Considerations
The evidence for pharmacological interventions in sunburn treatment is mixed. A review of studies found limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of corticosteroids, NSAIDs, antioxidants, or antihistamines in decreasing recovery time 3. However, some studies have shown that topical corticosteroids and diclofenac sodium gel may provide symptomatic relief when applied early after sun exposure 2, 4.
Prevention Strategies
Prevention remains the most effective approach to sunburn 1, 5:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF >15 that protects against both UV-A and UV-B rays
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating
- Minimize sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), especially between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Wear protective clothing including wide-brimmed hats and tightly woven fabrics
- Seek shade whenever possible
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses that block 99% of UV-A and UV-B radiation
Common Pitfalls in Sunburn Management
- Delayed treatment - Interventions are most effective when started immediately after sun exposure
- Inadequate hydration - Sunburn draws fluid to the skin surface and away from other body parts
- Using alcohol-based products which can dry and irritate the skin further
- Applying butter, oil, or petroleum jelly which trap heat in the skin
- Peeling sunburned skin which can delay healing and increase infection risk
- Returning to sun exposure before complete healing which can worsen damage and increase skin cancer risk
The long-term consequences of repeated sunburns include increased risk of skin cancer, premature skin aging, and development of precancerous actinic keratoses 1, 5. Therefore, prevention and proper management of sunburn are essential for long-term skin health and reducing mortality from skin cancer.