In the skincare world, prevention is always the gold standard, but sometimes, even the most diligent among us end up with a sunburn. What many don’t realize is that sunburn isn’t just a temporary discomfort; it’s a sign of real cellular damage, with potential long-term consequences for your skin’s health and appearance. As a pharmacist, I’m sharing my go-to, science-backed strategies to help your skin recover gently, effectively, and safely.
Why Sunburn Is More Harmful Than You Think
It's not just a surface issue when your skin turns pink or red after sun exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation triggers inflammation and DNA damage in skin cells. Severe burns can lead to blistering, dehydration, and even speed up the aging process. Perhaps most concerning, just a handful of intense sunburns in childhood or adolescence can significantly raise the risk of skin cancer later in life.
At Emogene & Co., we’re committed to supporting your skin’s recovery with pharmacist-curated, evidence-based solutions that blend the best of nature and science. Here are the top five treatments I recommend for soothing sunburn and a few tips for keeping your skin healthy all year.
1. Cool Compresses & Ice Therapy (But Do It Right)
The first step is to calm inflammation fast. Apply a cool, damp washcloth or a towel-wrapped ice pack to the affected area; never put ice directly on the skin, as this can cause more harm. Cool compresses help reduce swelling, soothe the burning sensation, and prevent the burn from worsening in the first 24–48 hours.
Pharmacist Tip: Elevate areas like the shoulders or legs when applying cold packs to help minimize swelling and heat in deeper tissue layers.
2. Aloe Vera Gel (Pure and Unfragranced)
Aloe vera is a classic sunburn remedy for good reason. Its natural anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties help stimulate skin regeneration. For the best results, use pure, unfragranced aloe vera gel with no added alcohol or scents, which can further irritate compromised skin. Apply generously and as often as needed during the first few days post-burn.
Medical Insight: Aloe’s polysaccharides help stimulate skin repair, while its cooling effect offers immediate symptom relief.
3. Over-the-Counter Hydrocortisone Cream (1%)
A thin layer of 1% hydrocortisone cream can help reduce redness and inflammation if your sunburn is particularly itchy or swollen. This topical steroid calms the immune response that causes discomfort, allowing your skin to heal more efficiently.
Pharmacist Note: Use only twice daily for up to 3–5 days, and avoid applying to broken or blistered skin.
4. Oral NSAIDs for Internal Inflammation (Ibuprofen or Naproxen)
Sunburns may look like just a surface issue, but inflammation runs deeper. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce swelling and pain from within, especially if taken early.
Medical Advice: Always take NSAIDs with food and water to avoid stomach upset, and follow dosing instructions carefully.
5. The Healer All-Purpose Balm from Emogene & Co.
Our Healer All Purpose Balm is a pharmacist-formulated blend designed to soothe, protect, and restore for deep hydration and targeted skin recovery. Packed with anti-inflammatory herbs grown on our farm and rich botanical oils, this balm acts as a moisture-sealing shield, calming damaged skin and supporting barrier repair.
Its gentle, non-toxic formula is safe for adults and children, making it a versatile solution for sunburn, windburn, eczema, and dry patches.
Why It Works: The Healer All Purpose Balm contains healing plant compounds and occlusive ingredients that speed up recovery, reduce peeling, and relieve the tightness that is often associated with sunburn.
Final Thoughts: Prevention Is Key
While these treatments can bring much-needed relief, the most effective way to care for your skin is to prevent sunburn in the first place. Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, choose protective clothing, and avoid peak sun hours whenever possible. But if sunburn does happen, treat it quickly, gently, and consistently with these pharmacist- and doctor-approved methods to support your skin’s healing journey.
