Summary
You get back from the beach and find you have a bad sunburn. What now? In this video, Dr. Richard Honaker explains what helps.
Start an anti-inflammatory as soon as possible. Over-the-counter ibuprofen or naproxen reduces the inflammation that too much sun causes in the skin, which can really help reduce the sunburn. Take it with food so it doesn’t upset your stomach, and follow the directions on the label; ask your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure.
Stay well hydrated. Sunburned skin loses fluid, so drink plenty.
Stay cool. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can also help with the pain.
Soothing salves are fine for comfort, but Dr. Honaker says they don’t make the sunburn less severe.
Dr. Honaker says these steps can reduce the intensity, the pain and the peeling of a sunburn.
Key takeaways
- Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or naproxen as soon as possible, with food, following the label.
- Drink plenty of fluids, because sunburned skin loses fluid.
- Stay cool; acetaminophen can help with pain.
- Soothing creams can make you more comfortable but don’t treat the burn itself.
Questions Dr. Honaker answers
What should I do first for a bad sunburn?
Start an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, as soon as possible, and take it with food.
Why is hydration important?
Sunburned skin loses fluid, so you need to stay well hydrated.
Do soothing creams help?
They can make you more comfortable, but Dr. Honaker says they won’t make the sunburn less severe.
