How to Treat a Severe Sunburn

A sunburn is a burn on the skin that is caused by exposure to too much sun. Even on cloudy days, severe sunburns may occur. It is important to take preventative measures, such as applying sunscreen and wearing sun-blocking clothing, to avoid the pain and redness caused by overexposure. Once a severe sunburn occurs, you should know how to treat the symptoms to help reduce the amount of pain caused by this common burn.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Aloe vera
• Cold water
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Clean towel

Treat a Severe Sunburn

1. Get out of the sun or the tanning bed as soon as you realize you have been burned. If you are unable to do so, try to limit your skin's exposure by putting on protective layers of clothing or draping a cloth or towel around your body.

2. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen, to help relieve the pain associated with a sunburn. You should speak to your doctor regarding the medications that are appropriate for you. Learn whether you should be aware of any interactions with prescription medications you're using.

3. Try a cool compress of equal parts cold water and milk. Soak a clean cloth or gauze in the solution and apply to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes. You should refresh the solution at least every 2 to 3 hours.

4. Apply the juice from an aloe vera plant, or a topical gel that contains aloe vera, to the burned area to help soothe it.

5. Take a cool, but not ice-cold, bath to further soothe your burns. Avoid soaps with heavy perfumes that may further irritate the skin. Do not use abrasive skin products, such as exfoliators until your skin has healed.

6. Seek emergency medical attention if you feel faint, dizzy or nauseous in conjunction with a severe sunburn. You may be suffering from dehydration, and your physician may need to treat it with an intravenous (IV) course of saline solution.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice additional preventative measures when you travel to the southern part of the United States or other regions that are close to the equator, as well as areas at high altitudes.

• Realize that you may sustain a sunburn indoors. It is possible to burn inside a tanning bed.

• Talk to your doctor about the pain relievers and dosages that may be most appropriate for children.