What is the best way to manage and prevent sunburn?

Management and Prevention of Sunburn

For immediate treatment of sunburn, apply cool compresses to affected areas for 10-15 minutes several times daily, increase fluid intake, and use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation. 1

Immediate Treatment for Sunburn

When sunburn occurs, prompt intervention is essential to minimize damage and discomfort:

• Remove from sun exposure immediately and move to a cool, shaded area
• Apply cool compresses to affected areas for 10-15 minutes several times daily
• Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration (severe cases may require medical evaluation for IV fluids)
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Apply moisturizing lotions or aloe vera gel to soothe skin (avoid petroleum-based products which trap heat)
• For open or weeping areas, apply clean, sterile dressings to prevent infection 1

Evidence-Based Considerations

Research shows limited effectiveness of many common treatments. A review of studies found that corticosteroids, NSAIDs, antioxidants, antihistamines, and emollients generally showed minimal improvement in recovery time from sunburn 2. Specifically, topical corticosteroids have not demonstrated significant benefit in controlled studies 3.

Prevention Strategies

Prevention remains the most effective approach to managing sunburn:

Sun Protection Behaviors

• Minimize sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), especially between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. when UV rays are strongest 4, 1
• Seek shade when outdoors, particularly during midday hours 4
• Wear protective clothing:
  • Wide-brimmed hats (>3-inch brim) or Legionnaire hats (with ear and neck flaps)
  • Long-sleeved shirts and long pants (tighter weave and darker colors provide better protection)
  • Sunglasses that block 99% of UV-A and UV-B radiation 4, 1

Sunscreen Use

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB protection) with SPF >15 4, 1
• Apply 15-30 minutes before sun exposure
• Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or excessive sweating 1
• Be aware that sunscreen use alone without other protective measures may lead to increased sun exposure and potentially higher melanoma risk 4

Special Considerations

High-Risk Populations

• Children are particularly vulnerable to sun damage and require vigilant protection 1
• Fair-skinned individuals who sunburn readily and tan poorly (especially those with red/blond hair and skin that freckles easily) are at highest risk for developing skin cancer 4
• Individuals taking photosensitizing medications (tetracyclines, thiazide diuretics, retinoids, some antibiotics) should take extra precautions 1

Long-Term Monitoring

• Monitor healing skin for signs of infection or abnormal healing
• Be aware that severe sunburns increase lifetime risk of skin cancers
• Annual skin examinations are recommended for those with history of significant sun damage 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Relying solely on sunscreen without other protective measures may increase risk due to longer sun exposure
• Using inadequate SPF protection - use SPF 15 or higher, with higher protection recommended for fair-skinned individuals 5
• Forgetting to reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating
• Ignoring sun protection on cloudy days when UV exposure remains significant
• Using folklore remedies like coconut oil instead of scientifically formulated products 5

Despite increased sunscreen use over time, studies show this has not been accompanied by decreased sunburn rates, suggesting improper application or overreliance on sunscreen without other protective measures 6.