What should I do if my skin is sunburned and painful?

May 14, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

What should I do if my skin is sunburned and painful?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin

Sunburn pain is caused by excessive ultraviolet radiation exposure. Below are some ways to manage it:

1. Quickly move out of the sun to avoid further damage. Gently apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for 15–20 minutes, several times a day, to help reduce pain and swelling.

2. Maintain proper moisturization. Apply a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer or aloe vera gel to the sunburned skin to help restore moisture and relieve dryness and discomfort.

3. If pain is significant, you may take oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen capsules or aspirin powder, to alleviate pain and inflammation. However, be mindful of contraindications and correct dosage.

4. Keep the skin clean and avoid scratching to prevent breaking the skin and causing infection. During the healing process, avoid further sun exposure until the skin has fully recovered.

If symptoms worsen or persist, seek medical attention promptly.