How to Get Rid of a Sunburn Fast
To get rid of sunburn fast, start by cooling the skin, hydrating inside and out, and applying a soothing after-sun lotion to relieve discomfort and prevent peeling. Taking these steps and staying protected from further sun exposure can help you recover as quickly as possible.
5 Immediate Relief Steps for Sunburn
Move out of the sun - Get into the shade or go indoors immediately to prevent further damage. Stay out of the sun during the hottest time of the day–this tends to be 12-4 pm.
Cool the skin - Take a quick, cool shower or use a cold, damp compress to lower your skin temperature. Avoid ice or very cold water, as this can irritate the skin further.
Apply after-sun lotion while skin is slightly damp - Applying a hydrating after-sun lotion like COOLA’s After Sun Lotion when the skin is damp can lock in moisture and start the healing process as soon as possible.
Drink water - Staying hydrated supports your skin’s natural healing process from the inside, aiding recovery. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, sticking with water for maximum hydration.
Take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever - Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen can help reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort.
How to Stop Sunburn from Peeling
Peeling after a sunburn is a natural part of the skin’s repair process, but you can reduce how much it peels and make healing more comfortable with the right after-sun steps.
Moisturize often - Use a hydrating moisturizer or after-sun lotion several times a day after exposure.
Refrain from picking and peeling - While picking the skin can be tempting, let it shed naturally to prevent infection or scarring.
Avoid hot showers and harsh scrubs - These can strip the skin of its natural oils, drying it out faster and aggravating damaged skin.
Wear loose, breathable clothing during healing - Wearing loose clothing prevents chafing and irritation while it heals.
Many people confuse sunburn peeling with sunscreen pilling, but they’re different issues. Peeling happens as your skin heals from UV damage, while pilling is when sunscreen clumps or rolls on the skin. If you’re dealing with the latter, check out our guide on sunscreen pilling.
After Sun Care For Faster Recovery
After-sun care is vital for your skin to recover as quickly as possible. By focusing on cooling, hydrating, and nourishing your skin, you can restore lost moisture and reduce inflammation. Nutrient-rich lotions help repair and strengthen the skin barrier to heal more efficiently and can reduce pain, too.
What Does After Sun Lotion Do?
After Sun Lotions play a vital role in getting rid of sunburn fast. A product such as COOLA After Sun Lotion helps aid in your recovery by:
Hydrating and locking in moisture - This prevents excessive dryness and helps maintain the skin’s elasticity during the healing process.
Reducing tightness and pain after sun exposure - This soothes irritation and promotes a more comfortable recovery.
Supporting the skin barrier so it can repair itself more quickly - This speeds up the process, reducing discomfort and meaning the skin is healthier and less prone to peeling.
Replenishing nutrients - Replenishing the skin with antioxidants such as vitamin E helps repair UV-induced free radical damage.
Sunburn Relief FAQs
How long does it typically take for a sunburn to heal?
Mild sunburn usually heals within 3–7 days, while more severe burns may take up to two weeks. Recovery time depends on the burn’s severity and how well you care for your skin with cooling, hydration, and after-sun products.
Can you make sunburn go away overnight? If so, how can you do this?
You can’t make sunburn disappear overnight, but you can speed recovery. Cool the skin with a shower or compress, drink plenty of water, and apply a nourishing after-sun lotion to reduce discomfort and support healing.
What is best to put on sunburn at night to aid a quicker recovery?
The best thing to put on sunburn at night is a generous layer of after-sun lotion or aloe-based moisturizer. This hydrates, reduces tightness, and helps repair the skin barrier while you sleep. Avoid heavy fragrances or alcohol-based products that can irritate.
Can you still take a shower if you have sunburn?
Yes, you can shower with sunburn, but use cool or lukewarm water and gentle cleansers. Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating, as this can damage already sensitive skin and delay healing. Pat dry instead of rubbing with a towel.
Does peeling skin mean that my sunburn is healing?
Yes, peeling is part of the skin’s natural repair process after sunburn. It’s important not to pick at peeling skin, as this can cause scarring and increase the risk of infection. Keep the area moisturized to reduce flaking.
What is the best product to put on a sunburn to help it heal?
A high-quality after-sun lotion with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or Cupuaçu butter is best for sunburn. These soothe irritation, lock in moisture, and help the skin heal faster.
Can you still get a tan on your skin after a sunburn?
It’s best to avoid tanning after a sunburn. Sunburned skin is more sensitive and prone to long-term damage. Wait until the skin is fully healed before resuming sun exposure, and always apply broad-spectrum SPF.
Do I need to go and see a doctor for sunburn?
Mild sunburn can usually be treated at home with cooling, hydration, and protective skincare. See a doctor if you experience severe blistering, fever, chills, dizziness, or dehydration after sunburn.
How can I get rid of sunburn fast and help myself heal?
To get rid of sunburn faster, cool the skin, drink plenty of fluids, and apply after-sun lotion multiple times a day. Protect the skin from further sun exposure while it heals to prevent worsening damage.
While you can’t make a sunburn vanish instantly, the right care can get rid of it much faster. By cooling the skin, staying hydrated, and using a nourishing after-sun lotion, you can help the skin heal while preventing peeling and irritation. Treat your skin gently, protect it from further sun exposure, and pick the right products to have the most comfortable recovery.
