Sunburn develops in response to overexposure to the sun's UV rays. It appears within a few hours following sun exposure and may last as long as several weeks, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition to increasing your risk of skin cancer, sunburn can cause skin redness, pain, swelling, headache, fatigue, blistering and fever. Only time can heal a sunburn, but a number of remedies are available to relieve the associated pain and inflammation.
Cool Compresses
Applying cool compresses to sunburned areas can ease pain and swelling. You can make a compress at home by folding a small towel and dampening it with cool tap water. Hold the compress against painful areas for 10 to 15 minutes. Taking a cool shower immediately after coming indoors can also relieve sunburn pain. Compresses are also available in most pharmacies and retail stores.
Medications
The Mayo Clinic recommends taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, as soon as sunburn symptoms appear. These medications can reduce the pain and swelling associated with excess sun exposure. Prescription anti-inflammatory medications may be necessary for severe burns. Blistering burns may require treatment with prescription corticosteroids to reduce pain and inflammation and speed healing. Unfortunately, they are only beneficial if taken within 48 hours of sun exposure. Burns that blister and show signs of infection, such as increased redness, pain or oozing, are treated with topical or oral antibiotics.
Rehydration
It is essential to increase your fluid intake when you have a sunburn, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sun and heat exposure cause fluid loss through the skin, and rehydrating your body will prevent dehydration, encourage healing, and alleviate fatigue. Drink extra water for two to three days following a sunburn.
Other Remedies
Apply aloe vera or moisturizing cream directly to sunburned areas to relieve pain and help prevent peeling. The New York Times Health Guide cautions against applying moisturizing creams to blistered skin, as doing so may increase the risk of infection. Health911 suggests using a cotton ball to apply apple cider vinegar to sunburns to prevent peeling and blistering. Topical numbing agents, such as benzocaine, may help relieve sunburn pain, but these products may increase skin irritation or trigger an allergic reaction.
