A sunburn damages your skin, which results in flaking and noticeable peeling. It may take several days for your skin to begin healing after a sunburn, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or greater to help prevent sunburn, head off premature wrinkles and reduce your risk of skin cancer. If you do suffer a burn, apply natural remedies and moisturizer to help get rid of the peeling skin.
Step 1
Apply aloe vera to all the sunburned areas, as well as sun-exposed skin that isn't peeling yet. Aloe vera soothes and lubricates the peeling skin. Apply enough to wet the skin and gently slide the peeling skin off with your fingertips.
Step 2
Use cool water on the sunburned areas to avoid irritating the burn. Apply moisturizer morning and night when your skin is damp. Gently tap the moisturizer on with your fingertips and avoid rubbing. A moisturizer made with Vitamin C or Vitamin E might help heal your skin, but this hasn't been proven, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation.
Step 3
Reapply aloe or moisturizer frequently throughout the day. Gently smooth away peeling skin as you dab it on. Keeping your skin moist reduces irritation and keeps it from looking dry or flaky during the peeling process.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This is when 65 percent of the UV radiation reaches the earth, according to the DermNet NZ website. Don't scratch or pick at a sunburn; this can cause irritation, infection and scarring. Avoid breaking any blisters. Covering blisters with gauze can give some protection.
- Avoid using products containing benzocaine -- it may cause irritation and there are questions about its safety, according to the Mayo Clinic website. See a doctor for a severe sunburn or sunburn accompanied by fever.
Things You'll Need
- Aloe vera
- Moisturizer, such as a cream with Vitamin C or E
