Few things are as uncomfortable as dealing with an itchy sunburn. That annoying prickling sensation is your body’s natural inflammatory response to the damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays. While sunburn itself is unpleasant, the itchiness that follows can feel unbearable.
The good news? You don’t have to suffer through it. Here are 10 effective and dermatologist-recommended methods to relieve itchy sunburn fast and help your skin heal.
1. Apply Cool Compresses
Cooling your skin should be your first step. Use a soft, damp cloth soaked in cool water and gently apply it to the burned area. You can also take a cool shower or bath—but avoid hot water and harsh soaps, which can make dryness and itching worse.
2. Stay Hydrated
Sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface, leaving the rest of your body dehydrated. This loss of hydration contributes to dryness and itchiness. Keep sipping water throughout the day to restore balance and keep your skin from drying out further.
3. Take Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation caused by sunburn. If your burn is especially uncomfortable, these may provide fast relief.
4. Moisturize Regularly
After a bath or shower, gently pat your skin dry and apply a moisturizer while your skin is still damp. Look for soothing ingredients like aloe vera or soy. Calamine lotion can also help calm itchiness. If you have blisters, protect them with petroleum jelly to prevent infection and speed up healing.
5. Try Baking Soda
Baking soda is often used to ease itchy skin conditions like eczema, and it can also help with sunburn. Add ¼ cup to a lukewarm bath or make a simple paste with water and apply it directly to itchy spots. Use sparingly, though, since it can dry out your skin if overused.
6. Consider Oral Antihistamines
Sometimes your body releases histamine in response to sun damage, which can worsen the itch. Over-the-counter antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) may reduce irritation and improve comfort. Always consult your doctor before starting new medications.
7. Use Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is one of the most popular natural remedies for sunburn. It hydrates, soothes, and helps repair damaged skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. If you have an aloe plant at home, you can use fresh gel directly from the leaves, or purchase a pure aloe vera product.
8. Take an Oatmeal Bath
Colloidal oatmeal, made from finely ground oats, is another gentle and effective remedy. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help calm irritated skin. Add it to lukewarm bathwater and soak for 10–15 minutes. Follow up with a moisturizer afterward to lock in hydration.
9. Stay Out of the Sun
Your skin needs time to recover. Avoid direct sunlight until the burn has healed. If you must be outside, wear loose cotton clothing, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, and use hats or umbrellas for added protection.
10. Apply Cortisone Creams
Mild steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, can reduce redness, swelling, and itching. Look for formulas that also include vitamins C and E, which help protect against further skin damage. Avoid numbing products with lidocaine or benzocaine, as they can worsen irritation in some people.
Bonus: Vitamin D May Help
Some early studies suggest that high doses of vitamin D3 might reduce inflammation and redness from sunburn. However, more research is needed, so check with your doctor before considering supplements.
Preventing Sunburn in the Future
The best way to avoid itchy, painful sunburn is prevention. A few simple steps can make all the difference:
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) 15–30 minutes before going outside.
- Reapply every two hours, or sooner if swimming or sweating.
- Avoid peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
- Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing.
- Make sunscreen part of your daily skincare routine.
Even one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can significantly increase your risk of skin cancer later in life, so prevention is key.
When to See a Doctor
Most sunburns heal on their own, but medical care may be necessary if:
- The burn covers more than 20% of your body
- You experience severe pain, pus, or swelling
- Your skin turns yellow or develops streaks
- You have fever, chills, or nausea
These could be signs of a more serious condition or infection that requires professional treatment.
Final Thoughts
Sunburn-related itchiness can be frustrating, but with the right remedies—cool compresses, aloe vera, moisturizers, and anti-inflammatory treatments—you can find quick relief and help your skin recover faster.
If your symptoms worsen or cover a large area of your body, seek medical advice promptly. And remember: the best sunburn treatment is prevention. Protect your skin today for healthier tomorrows.
