32 Homeopathic remedies for sunburn that really work

Oh, the dreaded sunburn! Trust me, my lovely, anxious traveler, I know that stinging, hot-to-the-touch feeling all too well and the urge to learn how to cure sunburn fast. I was lucky enough to grow up just 200 meters from the shore, so going to the beach all summer was my norm.

However, since moving to London in 2013, my skin has become accustomed to the cooler temperatures and no longer tolerates spending hours in the sun every day.

Every summer holiday requires extra care to avoid that sizzle. And don’t even get me started on my husband, a blond, light blue-eyed Hungarian who, despite all my tips on how to get a perfect tan without sunburn, still manages to get toasted.

This has truly made me an expert in homeopathic remedies for sunburn (I’ve tried them all!) and what works to make him feel better and save his vacation.

Whether it’s the first day of summer bliss or the end of a dreamy beach getaway, nearly everyone has experienced the painful discoloration of a sunburn. Sometimes, that “whoops, I forgot to reapply my sunscreen” moment can become a “oh my god, my whole body is burning” situation.

Most average sunburns are similar to a first-degree burn, meaning only the outer layer of your skin, the epidermis, is affected. However, if you notice blisters or breaks in the skin, that indicates a partial-thickness or second-degree burn, and you should seek care from a burn specialist immediately.

If you forgot your sunscreen (or perhaps didn’t follow my detailed guide on how to get the best tan safely!), and you’re now left with red, flaky skin that’s painful to the touch, you’re probably wondering how to get rid of it fast.

While finding immediate relief is top of mind, you will want to treat this area with special care to avoid further irritation. This guide will help you discover the best treatments!

Below, you will find the most effective sunburn relief at home, skincare tips, and over-the-counter solutions to help you find relief. Whether you’re dealing with a mild pink flush or a deeper burn, these methods promote healing, reduce inflammation, and help you understand how to heal quickly, getting you back to feeling comfortable in your skin.

Disclaimer: This article contains some general information about natural remedies. Before using any of the items featured here, it is strongly recommended that you consult a medical practitioner to check that it is appropriate. This is particularly important if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have an existing medical condition, and/or are taking prescription drugs.

Homeopathic remedy for sunburn

1. Get out of the sun immediately:

Here’s the absolute first rule of the sunburn club, my lovely, anxious traveler: get out of the sun, like, yesterday! I know, I know, when you’re finally enjoying that dreamy beach vacation, the last thing you want to do is pack up and head back to your hotel. Been there, done that, especially when my husband starts glowing red and insists he’s “fine.”

But seriously, if you spot that tell-tale pink developing, high-tail it to proper shade immediately. This isn’t the time to be a sun worshipper. Find a cozy bar for a refreshing gelato or an icy drink, or head indoors for a cool escape. You don’t have to abandon your day entirely; give your skin a much-needed break.

If you must stay out, cover every inch of exposed skin with dense clothing or a good SPF-rated umbrella. And here’s a crucial tip I learned growing up on the shore: even under an umbrella, the ocean has a pesky mirror effect.

The sunlight reflects intensely off the water’s surface, bouncing those harmful UV rays right onto your skin, even in the shade. So, staying near the shore, even covered, can still make things worse. Clear away that reflective glare and give your skin a real chance to cool down.

2. Take a soothing cold bath or cold shower:

As soon as you get back home or to your accommodation, it’s time to literally chill out with a cool bath. And when I say cool, I mean it: ditch the hot water! Trust me, a steamy shower or a scorching hot bath is the absolute last thing your sizzled skin needs. All that warmth will only dry out your skin and make that angry burn feel even worse.

This is a crucial step in learning how to take care of your skin after getting tan. Instead, draw yourself a nice, cool bath. Forget the bubbles and any heavily perfumed soaps for now; those can only irritate your already sensitive skin. If you happen to have some colloidal oatmeal on hand, such as Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment, sprinkle it in!

Research supports this claim: Colloidal oatmeal is effective in calming inflammation and reducing that annoying itch. You can even DIY it by grinding up some plain oats in your blender and adding them to the water.

My husband swears by this after his inevitable holiday sizzles. If oats aren’t an option, use the most delicate, 100% natural soap you can find, or even better, the Chatham Oatmeal Soap.

And here’s a pro tip from my own experience: make sure you rinse all the soap off. Any residue can further dry out your skin. For an extra boost, try adding a cup of vinegar to your bathwater. It may sound odd, but it can help restore the pH balance of your sunburned skin and promote healing, making it one of the best remedies to cure naturally a sunburn when you’re seeking quick relief. Aim to soak for at least 15 minutes, allowing the cool water to work its magic on your skin. After this, you will feel a lot better, and it will make a difference.

3. Drink plenty of water:

Don’t forget the inside job! When you’re sunburned (and even while you are at the beach, your body loses fluids, so staying hydrated is one of the best remedies and a crucial part of caring for sunburn.

Think of it as rehydrating your skin from the inside out to counteract that drying effect. My top tip here is simple: drink tons of water. Guzzle it like it’s going out of style! But if chugging water isn’t quite your jam, or you just want an extra boost, snack on hydrating fruits and veggies.

Watermelon, cucumber, strawberries, tomatoes, grapefruit, and cantaloupe are all more than 90% water, making them perfect, delicious ways to replenish your fluids.

Get my beach bag checklist!

4. Apply an aloe vera gel:

It’s time for the undisputed superstar of sun-sizzled skin: aloe vera. Seriously, when it comes to soothing that angry redness, nothing beats a good aloe vera gel. It’s a classic go-to for a reason, and trust me, I’ve seen it work wonders. There is even medical evidence supporting the effectiveness of aloe vera in aiding wound healing.

If you’re lucky enough to stumble upon a fresh aloe plant, as we did on our incredible visit to the Seychelles, you can break off a leaf, let the weird yellow stuff drain out in a sink (an important step!), and then apply the cool, clear juice directly to your skin.

Pure, organic aloe is simply magical. In case you cannot find an aloe vera plant nearby, a high-quality, pure aloe vera for sunburn relief gel is the next best thing. Make sure to add it to your summer vacation packing list so you don’t forget it!

And if you’re traveling light with just carry-on luggage, don’t panic. You can easily find it at a natural products store or a pharmacy upon arrival, just as we did on our trip to Majorca. Just be sure to pick one that has no alcohol, colors, or fragrance that could irritate your skin even more.

See a pure aloe vera gel

Valentina’s Note: Keep it chilling in the fridge for an extra burst of refreshing coolness when you apply it. It truly is one of the best homeopathic remedies for sunburn when you need that immediate, calming comfort.

5. Add oatmeal to your skin:

After you’ve cooled down and applied that magical aloe, my lovely, anxious traveler, it’s crucial to lock in that moisture, especially if you’re wondering how to heal after getting a sunburn quickly. This next step is essential, as your skin may feel drier than before. I’m talking about the power of oats!

An oat body cream is fantastic here and the best cream (I discovered it on my trip to Greece and since then, I never stopped buying it for my summer trips). For extra relief, pop your moisturizer in the fridge for a bit before applying it; that chilled sensation is pure bliss on hot skin. You can also buy the Oat sunscreen, which helps you from the start.

Be sure to avoid products containing petroleum, such as Vaseline, as they can trap heat and exacerbate the burn. If you can’t find oat cream but have some plain oats at home or in your holiday apartment, you can easily make your soothing paste.

Mix finely ground oatmeal with some cold milk (any kind works, even vegan milk). Oatmeal is a natural anti-inflammatory, so this paste helps calm your skin down. Apply it directly to the affected areas. This simple tip for relief at home is one of my go-tos, especially for my husband’s frequent sun mishaps.

See my favorite Oat body cream

6. Apply Witch hazel:

Alright, my lovely, anxious traveler, for yet another trick in our arsenal of homemade remedies, let’s talk about witch hazel. Now, if you’re picturing something spooky, don’t worry, it’s a natural extract, usually from the leaves and bark of the witch hazel plant.

You can typically find it as a clear liquid or as a Soothing Cleansing Cloth (perfect for carrying it into your luggage), often in the skincare or first aid section of pharmacies and supermarkets. When purchasing witch hazel, look for pure, distilled witch hazel without added alcohol, as alcohol can be drying and irritating to already sensitive skin.

When you apply witch hazel to your skin, it works wonders by providing a lovely anti-inflammatory effect. This means it actively helps calm down that angry, inflamed skin and significantly reduces the redness, which is key for how to get rid of sunburn naturally.

Plus, it gives a wonderfully cooling sensation, which is pure bliss on hot, throbbing skin. Gently dab the affected areas with a cotton ball a few times a day.

See Witch Hazel Soothing Cleansing Cloth

7. Apply Cucumbers:

Get ready for a trick that might make you look a little… culinary! Sometimes the simplest kitchen staples are the most effective. I’m talking about good old cucumbers.

These cool, green veggies aren’t just for salads or fancy spa treatments; they’re packed with natural antioxidants and act as a gentle analgesic, which basically means they help relieve pain. For this excellent natural homeopathic remedy for sunburn, you can go one of two ways.

My personal favorite, if I have a blender handy in our holiday rental, is to chill a cucumber, mash it into a paste, and then apply that cool goodness directly to the burn. It feels incredibly soothing. If you’re without a blender, don’t worry! Just slice the cucumber into thin rounds and lay them directly onto your skin.

Yes, you might look a bit like a poached fish ready for dinner, but trust me, it works wonders! That immediate cooling sensation and the cucumber’s healing properties will make your skin sing with relief.

Pssst! Looking for more countries to visit? Check out my Destination Page to see all the places I have written about. More content is being posted regularly.

8. Apply hydrocortisone cream:

Let’s talk about another fantastic over-the-counter option for those stubborn, itchy, or painful sunburns. When seeking profound sunburn pain relief, reaching for a 1% hydrocortisone cream can be a game-changer. Brands like Cortizone-10 are readily available in lotion, spray, or ointment form.

Hydrocortisone is a topical corticosteroid, meaning it possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties. Remember the whole inflammatory reaction your skin goes through when it gets burned? Hydrocortisone goes right in there to minimize itching, soothe skin irritation, and significantly reduce that inflammation.

This means it directly tackles the redness and helps ease the pain of mild to moderate sunburns, making it a truly effective treatment for getting comfortable quickly.

See 1% hydrocortisone cream

9. Applying essential oil:

Essential oils can be a fantastic way to cool your skin and reduce inflammation, making them a strong contender for the best homeopathic remedies for sunburn to heal a bad sunburn. Some of the best oils for sunburn are peppermint, lavender, chamomile, or tea tree oil, all have excellent soothing properties.

However, and this is a huge caveat, never apply essential oils directly to your sunburn. I repeat, never! They are far too potent and can cause further irritation. The secret to using them safely is dilution. Always make sure to dilute your chosen essential oils with a “carrier” oil, like sweet almond oil, or add a few drops to a dollop of a gentle moisturizer, such as your pure aloe vera gel or your oat body cream.

This way, you can harness their anti-inflammatory benefits to help with how to get rid of redness and enjoy that lovely cooling sensation, all while keeping your skin safe and happy by using a homeopathic sunburn remedy.

11. Avoid irritants:

While we’re throwing everything we’ve got at that sunburn, it’s equally important to know what not to use. When your skin is already screaming, the last thing you want to do is make it angrier. So, when you’re scouring for soothing lotions or sprays, be a label detective!

You might see over-the-counter anesthetics that seem tempting for a mild burn, but please avoid products that contain benzocaine or lidocaine. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), these can further irritate your skin.

Additionally, many topical creams and gels contain drying alcohols or fragrances that can irritate your skin and hinder the all-important healing process. Always read those labels carefully to ensure you’re giving your skin the gentle care it needs, not adding more stress.

Heads up! Looking for the perfect tan this summer? Read my “Guide to the perfect tan.”

12. Add a cool compress:

When that sunburn is just radiating heat, there’s nothing quite like a cool compress for immediate relief at home. This is one of my personal favorites for instant comfort, and it’s one of the best natural remedies. Here’s the simple trick: grab an ice pack, or, if you’re like me and on holiday with limited supplies, a bag of frozen peas works perfectly!

Just make sure to wrap it in a damp cloth. You do not want to place that icy package directly against your skin, as that can lead to frostbite or ice burns, which is the last thing you need right now. Alternatively, you can pour water and ice into a bowl, soak a clean cloth in the chilly liquid, and then gently place it over your burn (you can also wet the towel and place it inside the freezer for a few minutes).

Repeat this process every few minutes as the cloth warms up. This helps absorb some of the heat from your skin, constricts blood vessels, and will noticeably reduce swelling. Apply the compress several times a day for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll feel that soothing relief almost instantly.

13. Treat sunburned eyes:

We’ve discussed skin, but sometimes the sun can be even sneakier and affect your eyes. Sunburned eyes are no fun at all, and believe me, they can make your holiday feel extra miserable. It’s often an overlooked part of getting the overall best cure for getting rid of a sunburn.

If your eyes are feeling gritty, painful, or super sensitive to light, grab a clean towel and dampen it with cool tap water. Gently place that cool cloth over your closed eyes. This is one of those simple home remedies for sunburned face issues that provides immediate relief.

And here’s some essential advice: do not wear your contact lenses until all your eye symptoms have completely gone away, and whatever you do, resist the urge to rub your eyes! Next time you’re heading out, always make sure to wear good-quality sunglasses that block UV rays, your eyes will thank you!

14. Tame your eyes with tea:

Let’s soothe those sensitive areas, especially your eyes, with one of the fantastic sunburn herbal remedies that might already be in your kitchen cupboard: tea! Yes, those little bags of goodness are not just for sipping.

Research from 2011 shows that the tannic acid in green and black tea can help pull heat right out of a sunburn, while compounds called catechins, which are potent antioxidants, work to repair skin damage. This makes it one of the best remedies if you have sunburn on your eyes. It’s super simple to do and it works.

I tried this remedy during my visit to Malta: soak two tea bags in cool water until they’re thoroughly chilled. Then, gently place them over your closed eyes. The cool tea will help reduce swelling and provide profound relief from pain, giving your delicate eye area the much-needed comfort it needs.

15. Apply Chamomile tea:

Let’s brew up another one of our fantastic homemade remedies! We’re talking about chamomile tea. Some research suggests that applying chamomile topically may help manage inflammatory skin conditions, which is precisely what a sunburn is.

While research specifically on chamomile tea for soothing sunburn is somewhat limited, many people still swear by it for calming mild sunburns, especially on smaller areas. To try this soothing trick and see if it helps on how to get rid of it fast, brew your chamomile tea as you usually would for a cozy cuppa, then let it cool completely.

Once it’s chilled, soak a clean washcloth in the tea and gently apply it to the affected area. Now, a super important note: an allergic reaction to chamomile is possible. You should avoid this treatment if you know you’re allergic to other plants, such as daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or ragweed. Safety first, my friend!

Non-natural but helpful remedies

16. Use a rash-relieving powder:

Sometimes that sunburn decides to get itchy, and that’s a whole new level of uncomfortable! When that happens, and you’re exploring all your options for natural sunburn remedies, you may want to consider bringing in a little extra help.

Grab a Domeboro Soothing Soak Rash Relief powder packet. You add this powder to your ice water compress. The magic ingredient here is aluminum acetate, which works wonders at keeping your skin from getting too dry or, more importantly, too itchy.

It’s a fantastic way to find some targeted relief when that burning sensation has turned into an annoying itch, helping you stay comfortable while your skin heals.

17. Take an aspirin:

Once you’ve safely retreated from the sun’s fiery gaze, it’s time to hit the medicine cabinet! One of my go-to, tried-and-true tricks for those unexpected sizzles, especially when dealing with my husband’s frequent sun mishaps, is reaching for good old aspirin. It’s one of the best sunburn treatments because it doesn’t just mask the pain; it helps tackle the underlying issue, so be sure to include it in your travel beauty bag.

Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory medication. Remember how I mentioned earlier that a sunburn kicks off an “inflammatory reaction” in your skin? Inflammation is what causes all the redness, swelling, and discomfort.

So, by taking aspirin (I usually take two tablets every four hours for a mild to moderate burn), you’re directly addressing the inflammation. It helps reduce the swelling and redness, which in turn can significantly ease the pain and itchiness that come with a burn.

It’s a simple step, but it provides some of the best relief at home, helping you feel more comfortable while your skin heals. I always have a couple of aspirin inside my beach bag in case my husband, Lajos, gets sunburned, so he can take them as soon as we leave the beach.

How to sleep with sunburn

18. Add talcum powder on your sheets:

We’ve covered what to do as soon as you come back home from the beach, but what about getting some actual rest? Sleeping with a nasty sunburn can feel like trying to cuddle a hot potato, it’s challenging, but getting good rest is essential for your body to recover.

Here’s a little trick I’ve picked up, especially when my husband is tossing and turning with a fresh burn: try sprinkling a bit of talcum powder on your sheets. It works wonders to minimize chafing and friction, making it a lot easier to shift around without wincing.

And here’s a pro tip for those particularly sizzled lower limbs: if your legs or feet are burned, try elevating them above heart level. This simple trick helps to reduce swelling and can make a surprisingly big difference in your comfort.

19. Take aspirin before going to sleep:

We discussed taking aspirin earlier in the day to help alleviate the sunburn, but here’s a crucial follow-up: taking it just once won’t be enough to keep the pain at bay, truly. If you’re wondering about the best remedy to cure a sunburn that works even when you’re trying to catch some Zs, it’s about consistency.

To truly alleviate the pain and stinging, especially for uninterrupted sleep, it’s better to retake aspirin or ibuprofen right before you head to bed. These non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are going to work quietly while you rest, interfering with your body’s production of those chemicals that cause inflammation and pain.

This means you can heal more effectively while you sleep, which is precisely what your body needs to bounce back faster.

The Day After: Continuing Your Sunburn Healing Process

20. Avoid the sun:

This next one is non-negotiable for healing that sizzle: avoid the sun! Seriously, your skin is in recovery mode, and exposing it to more UV rays is like adding fuel to a fire. It’s best to try to stay indoors until your skin has completely healed, which can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the severity of the burn.

If you absolutely must be outside, seek the shade of a solid wall or a roof. Remember, the shadow of a tree or an average beach umbrella won’t suffice, as sunlight can easily pass through leaves and most umbrella fabrics, still exposing your delicate skin.

If you do need to venture out, always stay in the deepest shade you can find, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and of course, apply proper SPF. These steps are crucial whether you’re recovering from a sunburn or simply trying to protect your skin every day.

21. Take frequent cool baths and showers:

So it’s the day after, and that sunburn might still be radiating some heat. One of the simplest and most effective ways to stay cool is to take frequent cool baths or showers. Seriously, don’t be shy about hopping in whenever you feel that fiery discomfort creeping back.

This will help your skin cool down significantly and reduce the pain you feel. The absolute key here, though, and I cannot stress this enough, is to apply moisturizer immediately after every single bath or shower. Drying your skin out is the enemy of healing, so slather on that soothing cream to help your skin along in its recovery.

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22. Avoid makeup and skin care with fragrance:

This next tip is all about letting your skin breathe and recover without any extra stressors. When your skin is healing from a sunburn, it’s susceptible and delicate. So, please, avoid covering it with makeup.

Additionally, be a vigilant label reader and steer clear of any skincare creams or lotions that contain chemical fragrances. These added perfumes, along with heavy makeup, can easily irritate your already vulnerable skin, potentially causing more damage and delaying the healing process.

Your skin needs simple, gentle care right now, so let it be naked and free of anything that might cause a reaction.

23. Avoid any chemical creams:

Let’s discuss what not to put on sunburned skin, with a focus on home treatment. As we discussed, to avoid harsh fragrances, you should also steer clear of any chemical creams or substances that are too aggressive for your delicate, healing skin.

I’m referring to products like rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. While they might seem like cleansing agents, they are far too drying and can seriously irritate your already compromised skin. And remember our chat about petroleum jelly like Vaseline? It’s a big no-no.

It can trap heat in your burn, which will only prolong the discomfort and make the healing process take even longer. Please stick to the gentle, soothing remedies we’ve discussed; your skin will thank you!

24. Do not apply Antibiotics or antibiotic ointments:

We’ve walked through quite a few natural care options, but here’s a crucial warning, especially when you’re dealing with delicate, compromised skin: do not apply antibiotics or antibiotic ointments unless specifically told to by a doctor.

This is super important, particularly if you’ve never used these types of treatments before. Applying them to irritated skin, such as a sunburn, can trigger a nasty skin rash, which will only worsen the burn and add a whole new layer of discomfort.

Please stick to the gentle, soothing remedies we’ve discussed. If you suspect an infection or have extensive blistering, that’s when you call a medical professional, not reach for the antibiotic cream without guidance.

25. Avoid wearing clothes:

This next tip might sound a bit extreme, especially if you’re on a fabulous holiday, but it’s a game-changer for comfort: avoid wearing clothes whenever possible. I know, I know, staying naked means you might be stuck indoors, which can feel incredibly sad when you’re surrounded by sunshine and adventure.

However, trust me, the pain of fabric rubbing against already tender, sunburned skin can be excruciating. Sometimes, going au naturel is the only way to truly minimize chafing and friction, allowing your skin to breathe and begin its healing journey in peace.

This means that next time, you’ll listen to your friend Valentina and follow my guide to achieving the perfect tan and avoiding sunburn altogether!

26. Wear light and loose white cotton clothes:

Since staying completely naked isn’t always a practical option (especially if you want to leave your accommodation!), the following best treatments involve choosing your clothes very carefully. While your burn is healing, opt for soft, comfortable fabrics, such as cotton.

The goal here is to minimize any painful rubbing that could further irritate your already sensitive skin. Look for tightly woven fabrics; a good test is to hold your shirt up to a bright light—you shouldn’t see the fabric shine through.

Light colors, predominantly white, will also reflect the sun’s rays if you happen to step outside briefly. Be patient, my friend—your skin will heal with time if you give it this gentle care.

Heads up! Looking for the perfect tan this summer? Read my “Guide to the perfect tan.”

27. Do not burst blisters:

Let’s discuss those pesky blisters that sometimes appear after a severe sunburn. Your instinct might be to burst them, but here’s the deal: do not burst blisters by just tearing the top off! That skin on top of the blister is there to protect the raw, vulnerable skin underneath, and it’s part of your body’s natural healing process.

However, if a blister is bothering you and you feel you absolutely must do something, you could use a sterile needle to drain the fluid. This is one of those nuanced best remedies that requires extreme caution.

First, sterilize a needle by holding it over a flame for a few seconds. Then, carefully puncture just the edge of the blister and gently press on the top to let the fluid come out. Do this no more than three times in the first 24 hours, and then leave the blisters alone to heal naturally.

When in doubt, always consult your dermatologist if you suspect your sunburned skin may have signs of infection, such as excessive swelling or the presence of pus.

28. Do not apply honey to your skin:

Let’s clear up a common, yet frankly risky, piece of advice you might see floating around for how to cure sunburn quickly: do not apply honey to your skin. I know, I’ve seen countless articles out there suggesting raw honey for sunburned skin, but please, do not do it.

While honey has some fantastic properties for other skin conditions, for a fresh sunburn, you will honestly do more damage than good. The biggest culprit is that honey can trap heat against your already burning skin, which is the absolute last thing you want.

It just exacerbates the problem and delays the healing process. Trust me, stick to our tried-and-true soothing methods instead.

After sunburn peeling treatment

29. Resist the urge to peel skin:

This next tip for the day after is a tough one for many of us, but it’s absolutely crucial for your skin’s recovery: resist the urge to peel! I know, I know, when that skin starts flaking and lifting, it’s incredibly tempting to just grab it and pull. It feels like you’re helping, right? Wrong.

Honestly, the best remedy for peeling skin is not to peel it yourself. Doing so can actually delay the healing process, increase your risk of infection, and even lead to scarring. Trust me on this one. Instead of peeling, keep moisturizing like it’s your new favorite hobby.

Continue to slather on that soothing aloe vera first, and then follow up with a rich, gentle body cream. This consistent hydration will help your skin shed naturally and much more safely, ensuring a smoother recovery.

30. Do not scratch:

We’re talking about peeling, and hand in hand with that often comes the dreaded itch. So, here’s another cardinal rule for the day after: do not scratch! I know, I know, when that skin is healing and starting to peel, it can feel incredibly itchy, like a thousand tiny ants are having a dance party on your arm.

But trust me, giving in to that urge will only damage your skin further and can even lead to infection. Instead of scratching, try to resist! This is where our trusty aloe vera comes back into play. Gently apply more of that soothing gel.

It’s one of the best remedies for peeling skin because it provides immediate relief from the itch while also helping your skin heal naturally. Keep those hands away, and let the aloe do its magic!

Ready to explore more travel wisdom? Check out my comprehensive guide on achieving the perfect tan without sunburn.

31. Take an anti-itch drug:

Sometimes, the itch from peeling skin can be so intense that external creams just aren’t enough. When your skin is getting into the swing of that healing process, and the itch becomes too much to bear, you might need to tackle it from the inside.

This is where an oral antihistamine can be a real lifesaver. Something like diphenhydramine (you may know it as Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton, or other brands) can provide significant relief. Taking one of these can relieve that relentless itching as your skin begins to peel and heal underneath.

It’s one of those effective peeling remedies that finally let you get some comfort and truly let your body focus on recovery.

32. Do not exfoliate:

This next one is a direct order from me to you: do not exfoliate in an attempt to get rid of that peeling skin! I know, I know, it’s so tempting to scrub it off, especially when it feels flaky and a bit… well, gross. But trust me on this one.

Your body is in full healing mode, and it needs that skin right where it is, even if it’s peeling. Let it fall off by itself, naturally. This is a crucial part of truly effective peeling remedies. Resist the urge to speed things up with harsh scrubs or brushes. Just be patient and stick to your moisturizing routine, and your skin will take care of itself.

How long does a sunburn last?

Right, so you’ve found yourself with that tell-tale angry red glow, and the big question pops into your head: “How long is this going to last?!” I’ve asked myself that same question countless times, usually while staring at my husband’s lobster-red shoulders after he’s again “forgotten” my carefully explained SPF routine.

Having grown up practically living on the beach, I thought I was invincible, but now, living in London, my skin has gone soft. It’s why I’ve become an accidental pro at seeking out the best home remedies for when we’re on holiday and inevitably, someone (usually him) gets toasted.

The truth is, how long a sunburn lasts depends on how badly you’ve been burned and how well you treat it. A milder sunburn, characterized by a slight pinkness and discomfort, typically clears up within three to five days.

But if you’re dealing with one of those truly worst sunburns, the painful kind, possibly blistering, and one that makes you wince at the thought of wearing clothes, that healing process can stretch out to seven days or even longer. The good news is, by being proactive and giving your skin some love, you can definitely speed up that recovery time and get back to enjoying your adventure.

When should you call a doctor about a sunburn?

We’ve gone through a whole toolkit of remedies to soothe those sunburns, but there’s a crucial thing to remember: some burns are just too severe for at-home care. As much as I’ve become a pro at patching up my sun-sensitive husband, even I know when it’s time to call in the big guns.

You should consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms:

• Nausea
• Chills
• Fever
• Faintness
• Extensive blistering
• General weakness
• Headaches
• Patches of purple discoloration
• Intense itching

Also, be aware if the burn seems to be spreading. That could mean you have an infection that requires professional attention. It’s also super important to contact your physician if you’re currently taking any prescription medications.

Certain drugs, like antibiotics, tranquilizers, and antifungal medications, can make your skin much more sensitive to the sun and cause severe reactions. Even oral contraceptives, diuretics, drugs for some types of diabetes, and certain PABA-containing sunscreens can increase your risk of a bad burn. Always consult your doctor if you’re unsure.

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Coconut oil, yes or no?

Alright, my lovely, anxious traveler, let’s discuss a popular one that you’ll see advertised all over the internet: pure coconut oil. Does coconut oil help sunburn? Now, many websites sing its praises as a magical cure-all, but if I’m being frank with you, I’ve my reservations.

After taking a soap and body lotion-making course during the pandemic, I learned that coconut oil isn’t particularly moisturizing. It’s often used in cosmetics to create a lovely foam, rather than for deep hydration. So, when it comes to soothing a burn, I’m just not convinced it’s the hero ingredient we need.

Dermatologists also offer some essential cautions. They recommend avoiding application on a fresh burn or if you have any blistering. Why? Because coconut oil can trap heat in your skin, which can prolong the discomfort and healing process, which is the exact opposite of what we want!

If you insist on trying it, use only cold-pressed, organic coconut oil after any blistering has subsided and your burn is well into its healing stage. Always test a small patch of skin first to ensure you don’t experience any unwanted reactions.

And a big heads up for my acne-prone friends: skip it on your face, as it can clog pores and lead to breakouts. So, tell me, my lovely, anxious traveler, have you tried coconut oil on a sunburn? Did it help you feel better? I’m genuinely curious!

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FAQs about Sunburns

Before you go…

Alright, my lovely, anxious traveler, we’ve walked through the sunburn battlefield together, from understanding what happens to your skin to tackling those pesky post-burn symptoms. Sunburns happen, even to the most vigilant of us (and especially to my husband, despite my best efforts!).

But now, you’re armed with a comprehensive toolkit of effective strategies. Remember, immediate action is key, whether it’s retreating from the sun, reaching for a cool bath, or applying soothing aloe vera.

By being proactive with these practical home remedies and gentle skincare tips, you can significantly reduce discomfort, speed up the healing process, and get back to enjoying your holiday. But of course, the very best trick of all? Preventing the sunburn in the first place! Here’s to sun-smart adventures and healthy, happy skin.

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