You applied your SPF, spent the day enjoying the sun and thought your skin was protected. Then you got home and noticed the redness, heat and soreness.
Sunburn can happen after too much UV exposure, even when you've used sunscreen, especially if you don't reapply it or miss exposed areas. Once your skin is burned, the focus shifts from prevention to soothing it and giving it time to recover.
So, what should you do when SPF wasn't enough? From cooling sore skin to choosing suitable after-sun care, here's what can help and when you should seek medical advice.
What to Do When You Get Sunburn
If you've been sunburned, act quickly to cool your skin and get out of direct sunlight.
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Get out of the sun: Move indoors or into the shade and keep the affected skin protected from direct sunlight while it heals.
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Cool the skin: Take a cool shower or bath, or place a cool, damp towel over the affected area. Don't apply ice or ice packs directly to your skin.
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Dry gently: Pat your skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing it, which can make sore skin more uncomfortable.
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Keep hydrated: Drink plenty of water, particularly if you've spent a long time outdoors.
What Can You Put on Sunburn?
Once your skin has cooled, an unscented moisturiser, lotion or gel can help relieve dryness, tightness and discomfort while your skin recovers.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel can provide a cooling, soothing feel on sunburned skin. Choose a product suitable for sensitive or sun-exposed skin and stop using it if it causes stinging or irritation.
After-Sun Lotion
After-sun lotions are made for use after sun exposure and can help moisturise skin that feels dry or tight. Apply gently to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on sore areas.
Cooling Sprays
If your skin is particularly tender, a cooling spray may be easier to apply than a lotion that needs rubbing in. Follow the product instructions and avoid using anything that causes stinging or irritation.
Ballyduff Pharmacy's Suncare and First Aid range includes after-sun care options such as Ambre Solaire After Sun.
What Should You Avoid When You Have Sunburn?
Sunburned skin is sensitive, so avoid anything that could further irritate it or interfere with the healing process.
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Don't apply ice or ice packs directly to the skin. Use a cool shower, bath or damp towel instead.
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Don't pop blisters. Leave them intact to protect the skin underneath.
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Don't scratch or peel the skin. If peeling starts, let it happen naturally.
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Don't wear tight clothing over badly sunburned areas, as it can increase discomfort.
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Don't expose sunburned skin to more direct sunlight until it has healed.
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Don't use petroleum jelly or oil-based products on sunburned skin.
If you're unsure whether a product is suitable for sunburned skin, ask your pharmacist for advice.
How Long Does Sunburn Take to Heal?
Sunburn usually gets better within 7 days, although more severe burns can take longer to settle.
At first, you may notice redness, warmth and soreness. After a few days, the skin may become dry and start to flake or peel as it recovers.
If you have significant blistering or swelling, or your symptoms are severe or getting worse, speak to your GP or pharmacist.
When Should You Get Medical Advice for Sunburn?
Most mild sunburn can be managed with self-care, but certain symptoms mean you should speak to a healthcare professional.
Contact your GP if you have any of the following:
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Blisters or significant swelling
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A very high temperature or feel hot and shivery
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Severe tiredness, dizziness or nausea
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A headache or muscle cramps
Babies and young children with sunburn should also receive medical advice.
If you're unsure which sunburn treatment is suitable or whether you need to contact your GP, your pharmacist can advise you on appropriate care and next steps.
How to Prevent Sunburn Next Time
Once your skin has recovered, combine sunscreen with other forms of sun protection to reduce your risk of burning again. For more on why UV protection still matters in overcast weather, read our guide to SPF on cloudy days in Ireland.
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Use broad-spectrum sunscreen: Choose SPF 30+ for adults and apply it generously to exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, towel drying or sweating.
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Seek shade: Spend time in the shade when UV levels are strongest, particularly between 11am and 3pm.
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Cover up: Wear clothing that covers your skin, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
Give Sunburned Skin Time to Recover
Sunburn needs time to settle, so give your skin the care and protection it needs while it recovers.
If you're looking for suitable after-sun care, explore the Suncare range at Ballyduff Pharmacy.
If you're unsure what to use or your sunburn is severe, speak to your pharmacist for advice on the right next step.