Sincerely, if you’ve ever spent a day basking in the sun thinking, “I got this,” only to end up looking like a tomato, you already know the struggle. Sunburn isn’t just uncomfortable; it can literally wreck your skin if you make the wrong moves afterward. I’ve had my fair share of crispy shoulders and peeling backs, and trust me, some “advice” out there is more harmful than helpful. Let’s chat about 5 things to never do when you have sunburn and why avoiding them matters.
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1. Don’t Scratch or Peel the Skin
I know, I know… your skin itches like crazy, and that peeling layer is just screaming to be picked. But please, resist the temptation.
Why Scratching is a Big No-No
- It slows healing because you’re disrupting new skin growth.
- It increases infection risk since tiny scratches let bacteria in.
- It can leave permanent scars if you go overboard.
Ever wondered why some people’s sunburn scars stick around forever? Yep, they picked at it. IMO, it’s worth leaving your skin alone, even if it’s literally screaming for attention.
Better Alternatives
- Apply aloe vera or a gentle moisturizer to soothe itching.
- Take a cool bath to calm irritated skin.
- Use anti-itch gels with calming ingredients like calendula or chamomile.
Trust me, your skin will forgive you if you stop playing “scratch lottery.”
2. Never Use Hot Water or steam
This one seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people still think hot showers feel better on burned skin. FYI, they don’t.
Why Hot Water is a Problem
- It worsens inflammation and prolongs redness.
- It dehydrates your skin making peeling worse.
- It increases pain by irritating sensitive skin layers.
What to Do Instead
- Stick to cool or lukewarm water when bathing.
- Pat dry gently, no rubbing like you’re drying off after a marathon.
- Avoid saunas or steam rooms, at least until your skin chills out.
I learned this the hard way. I thought a steaming shower would “relax me,” and my shoulders ended up looking like a horror movie scene. Never again.
3. Don’t Slather on Heavy Oils or Butter
I get it, you want relief, so you grab coconut oil or shea butter thinking, “This will help.” Nope. Not when your skin is raw.
Why Oils Can Backfire
- They trap heat in the skin, worsening redness.
- They prevent your skin from breathing and slow healing.
- They can cause breakouts if applied to sunburned areas on your face or back.
Better Options
- Aloe vera gel, the classic hero, cooling and hydrating.
- Hydrocortisone cream (1%) if swelling is annoying.
- Light, fragrance-free moisturizers like Cetaphil or Vanicream.
Remember, your skin is fragile right now. Treat it like royalty, not like a DIY spa day.
4. Avoid More Sun Exposure
This might seem obvious, but hear me out: even short sun exposure while burned can do serious damage.
Why You Need to Stay Out
- Sunburned skin is extra sensitive, so UV rays cause more damage.
- It increases the risk of hyperpigmentation once healed.
- It can cause pain spikes and prolong peeling.
Safe Practices
- Stay indoors or in the shade until your skin recovers.
- Cover up with soft, breathable clothing if you must go outside.
- Use SPF 50+ on healed or partially burned areas if you venture out.
I used to think a little sun wouldn’t hurt… until I ended up peeling for three weeks straight. Lesson learned.
5. Don’t Ignore Hydration
Sunburn isn’t just skin-deep, it dehydrates your entire body. Some people forget this and end up feeling worse than they look.
Why Hydration Matters
- Sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface, leaving the rest of your body thirsty.
- It helps repair cells faster and reduces peeling.
- It keeps your skin plump, so healing looks better and feels better.
How to Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water, not just a sip here and there.
- Eat water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges.
- Use a hydrating mist or facial spray for quick relief.
Personally, I notice a huge difference when I actually drink enough water post-sunburn. My skin heals faster, and I don’t feel like a raisin.
Bonus Tips: Small Things That Help Big Time
While we’re at it, here are a few extra things I swear by when dealing with sunburn:
- Cool compresses: 5–10 minutes on burnt areas feels like heaven.
- Loose clothing: Tight clothes can rub and irritate, slowing healing.
- Avoid perfumes and harsh skincare products: They sting and inflame.
- Pain relief if needed: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen works wonders for pain and swelling.
These little tricks aren’t magic, but they make your recovery way more tolerable.
Wrapping It Up
So, let’s recap: never scratch, avoid hot water, skip heavy oils, stay out of the sun, and hydrate like your life depends on it. Treating sunburn properly it prevents long-term damage, peeling, and hyperpigmentation.
Sunburn recovery isn’t glamorous, but it’s simple if you follow these rules. Trust me, your future self will thank you when your skin heals smooth and unscathed.
🙂 Take care of your skin, respect the sun, and you’ll be golden, literally and figuratively.
