What is the best treatment for sunburn?

Best Treatment for Sunburn

For sunburn treatment, the most effective approach is symptomatic management with cool compresses, moisturizers, and over-the-counter pain relievers, as there is no definitive evidence that any specific treatment decreases recovery time.

Initial Management of Sunburn

Immediate Care (First 24 Hours)

• Cool the skin:

  • Apply cool (not cold) compresses to affected areas for 10-15 minutes several times daily
  • Take cool baths or showers to reduce heat and pain 1

• Pain management:

  • Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to reduce pain, inflammation, and redness
  • Start NSAIDs as soon as possible after sun exposure for maximum benefit 2

• Hydration:

  • Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration
  • Sunburn draws fluid to the skin surface and away from the rest of the body

Ongoing Care (24-72 Hours)

• Moisturize:

  • Apply gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to damp skin after bathing
  • Aloe vera may provide some relief for mild sunburn 3
  • Avoid petroleum-based products which can trap heat

• Avoid further sun exposure:

  • Keep sunburned skin completely protected from additional UV exposure
  • Wear loose, soft, breathable clothing over affected areas

Treatment Based on Severity

Mild Sunburn (Redness, Mild Pain)

• Continue with cool compresses and moisturizers
• OTC pain relievers as needed
• Protect from further sun exposure

Moderate Sunburn (Painful Redness, Mild Swelling)

• All treatments for mild sunburn
• Consider topical corticosteroids for short-term use (3-5 days)
  • A randomized controlled trial showed that topical corticosteroids like 0.1% methylprednisolone aceponate milk reduced symptoms when applied twice daily 4
• Oral antihistamines may help with itching and sleep disturbance

Severe Sunburn (Blistering, Severe Pain, Systemic Symptoms)

• Seek medical attention if:
  • Blisters cover a large portion of the body
  • Severe pain persists despite OTC pain relievers
  • Signs of infection develop (increased pain, swelling, warmth, pus)
  • Systemic symptoms occur (fever, chills, nausea, confusion)

Evidence on Specific Treatments

Topical Corticosteroids

• May provide modest relief when applied early
• A controlled study showed significant reduction in symptoms compared to no treatment 4
• Should be used for short duration only (3-5 days maximum)

Aloe Vera

• May provide some relief for mild sunburn
• One RCT showed 83.3% improvement rate with aloe vera application for skin conditions 3
• Risk of contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals

St. John's Wort

• Not recommended for sunburn treatment
• Has photosensitizing effects that may worsen sunburn 3
• Caution exists for burns and increased sun sensitivity

NSAIDs

• Helpful for reducing pain and inflammation
• Most effective when started early after sun exposure
• Can be continued for 48-72 hours as needed for symptom relief 2, 1

Important Cautions

• Avoid topical anesthetics: Products containing benzocaine may cause allergic reactions
• Don't break blisters: This increases infection risk
• Avoid petroleum jelly: Can trap heat and delay healing
• Avoid St. John's wort: Known photosensitizing effect that may worsen sunburn 3

Prevention Strategies

Prevention is the most effective approach to sunburn management:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) 15-30 minutes before sun exposure
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating
• Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 AM to 4 PM)
• Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses
• Be aware that certain medications can increase photosensitivity

Long-Term Considerations

Chronic sun damage can lead to:

• Premature skin aging (photoaging)
• Increased risk of skin cancer
• Development of precancerous lesions (actinic keratoses)

Regular skin examinations are recommended for those with history of significant sun exposure or multiple sunburns 2.