10 Ways to Treat a Sunburn at Home

Sunburns are a common—and sometimes severe—result of excessive sun exposure. While many natural remedies can help soothe the skin at home, it’s essential to seek medical care if the damage is severe or blistering.

Jump to Key Takeaways.

1. Cool The Burn

Since sunburned skin retains heat, cooling the affected area helps alleviate discomfort. Apply a cold compress or cold pack to small areas, or take a cool shower or soak in a cool water bath for larger areas. Pat the skin dry to minimize irritation.

An oatmeal bath is an excellent way to alleviate sunburn symptoms. Studies on colloidal oatmeal suggest that it can help reduce inflammation and itching.

2. Moisturizers, Aloe Vera, and Calamine Lotion

Apply moisturizer with aloe vera or soy daily to sunburned skin to keep skin hydrated and prevent skin peeling. Use scent-free and dye-free products to avoid further skin irritation. 

Aloe vera may soothe a mild sunburn. A 2024 research review reported that topical aloe vera application promoted wound healing at a faster rate compared to antimicrobial agents. While aloe vera is an effective solution, it is best to seek medical attention for severe sunburns.

Dermatologists also recommend calamine lotion to relieve discomfort.

3. Breathable Clothing

Wearing soft, breathable clothing can help protect your damaged skin as it recovers from the sunburn. Covering the affected area while outdoors can help reduce further exposure to potential skin damage.

4. Hydration 

During the healing process of sunburned skin, it is essential to replenish the moisture lost due to sun exposure. Sunburn can also cause water to be drawn from other parts of the body to the skin’s surface, potentially leading to dehydration. Drinking sufficient water helps maintain hydration and supports the recovery process.

5. A Pain Reliever

Aspirin or Advil (ibuprofen) may help alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by sunburn. Follow dosing instructions for pain relievers. 

6. Apply Manuka or Raw Honey

Some studies indicate that Manuka honey or raw honey may be helpful for mild to moderate superficial and partial-thickness burns. Although these findings do not specifically address sunburns, these types of honey contain proteins and enzymes thought to contribute to wound healing. Honey may also help reduce skin inflammation and swelling. 

To use honey on sunburned skin, apply it directly to small areas. For larger affected areas, apply honey to a bandage before placing it on the skin.

7. Over-The-Counter (OTC) Hydrocortisone Cream

A OTC topical corticosteroid that may reduce itching and inflammation linked to sunburn. Studies suggest that topical steroids, like hydrocortisone cream, can help alleviate acute sunburn symptoms and promote skin recovery by reducing inflammation.

They are most effective when used early and for a limited time based on the product instructions. It is not recommended to use topical steroids for extended periods to avoid possible side effects like acne, skin thinning, and discoloration.

8. OTC Topical Anesthetics

Topical anesthetics, including creams and gels with lidocaine, are used to relieve pain associated with sunburned skin. These products work by numbing the affected area and can help you get a good night’s rest.

9. Topical Chamomile Tea

Some studies suggest that chamomile may help manage skin inflammation. Although research on the effects of chamomile tea for sunburn is limited and based on older studies, topical application might provide relief for mild sunburn in a small area. 

To use, brew chamomile tea as usual and allow it to cool. Once cooled, soak a washcloth in the tea and gently apply it to the affected area of skin. 

People with allergies to daisies, ragweed, or marigolds should avoid chamomile.

10. Allow Time for Healing 

Blisters require time to heal naturally. Popping blisters can increase the risk of infection. Keeping the affected skin area clean and applying petroleum jelly to blisters that have opened may support the healing process.

Severe sunburn cases may cause blistering, skin discoloration, and shedding, with recovery taking up to two weeks.

When Should You Seek Medical Care?

While mild sunburns are often manageable at home, severe sunburns need medical attention. See a healthcare provider if your sunburn:

• Is severe, has blisters, or covers large areas
• Comes with fever, headache, intense pain, dehydration, confusion, nausea, or chills
• Shows signs of infection (swelling, pus, or red streaks)
• Doesn’t improve with home care

Sunburns are a radiation burn from excess ultraviolet (UV) exposure—either from the sun or tanning beds. They usually appear as hot and tender skin. The burn is red for lighter skin tones, but a color change may not be apparent for darker skin tones.

Key Takeaways

• Sunburn is caused by excessive exposure to sunlight or other UV sources, such as tanning beds.
• Most cases of sunburn can be managed at home using cool water, aloe vera, over-the-counter topical agents, adequate hydration, and other supportive therapies.
• Seek medical attention if sunburn does not improve with home care, is severe, is accompanied by fever or other significant symptoms, or shows signs of infection.