How do I treat sunburn?

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  1. Dr. Mehmet Oz
     
    Dr. Mehmet Oz answered:

    Sunburn is initially treated by getting the sunburned person out of the sun into a cool place and providing water to drink. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen may help reduce headache, fever and pain. Moisturizing creams, aloe vera and diphenhydramine can be soothing. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe a strong painkiller. Talk to your doctor or dermatologist for more information.

    Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing to safeguard your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

    Helpful? 1 person found this helpful
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    Sunburn is initially treated by getting the sunburned person out of the sun into a cool place and providing water to drink. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen may help reduce headache, fever and pain. Moisturizing... More
  2.  Ben Kaminsky
     
    Ben Kaminsky answered:

    If you do get mild sunburn, it is important to take healing measures immediately. Even though over-the-counter products containing topical anesthetics such as benzocaine are touted as being effective for sunburn, there is little scientific evidence on their effectiveness.

    To treat the painful symptoms, use cold compresses, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, antihistamines, and low-potency topical corticosteroids. Moisturize to limit inflammation and peeling.

    Even if there is a sunburn, continue to follow the sun preventive strategies by wearing sunscreen daily, avoiding UV exposure, wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and loose fitting clothes with long sleeves and long pants.

    More Related Answers from Ben Kaminsky
    If you do get mild sunburn, it is important to take healing measures immediately. Even though over-the-counter products containing topical anesthetics such as benzocaine are touted as being effective for sunburn, there is little scientific evidence... More
  3. American Red Cross
     
    American Red Cross answered:
    • Care for a radiation (sun) burn as you would for any thermal (heat) burn.

    • Always cool the burn and protect the area from further damage by keeping the person away from the source of the burn.

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    Care for a radiation (sun) burn as you would for any thermal (heat) burn. Always cool the burn and protect the area from further damage by keeping the person away from the source of the burn. More
  4. National Athletic Trainers’ Association
     
    Keep the sunburned area cool by applying a cold, damp compress. To help prevent the skin from peeling, keep the area moist by applying aloe or moisturizing cream. Avoid using any product that contains alcohol. Do not pop blisters, as this may cause an infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Advil or Motrin may decrease pain. (This answer provided for NATA by the Southern Connecticut State University Athletic Training Education Program)
    Keep the sunburned area cool by applying a cold, damp compress. To help prevent the skin from peeling, keep the area moist by applying aloe or moisturizing cream. Avoid using any product that contains alcohol. Do not pop blisters, as this... More
  5. Intermountain Healthcare
     
    To help treat a sunburn:
    • Take a cool shower or bath or put cold, wet cloths on the burn.
    • Treat pain. Try acetaminophen (like Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). Do not give aspirin to a child or teenager -- it increases risk for a serious problem called Reye's syndrome.
    • Put moisturizing lotion or gel on the burn. Aloe vera gel is a good one you can buy at the store. But do not use lotion or gel if the skin is blistering. Also, do not use products that contain benzocaine, lidocaine, or petroleum (like Vaseline).
    More Related Answers from Intermountain Healthcare
    To help treat a sunburn: Take a cool shower or bath or put cold, wet cloths on the burn. Treat pain. Try acetaminophen (like Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). Do not give aspirin to a child or teenager -- it increases risk for a serious... More