Sunburn can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but it is quite common, especially in the summer months. Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

The skin turns red, feels warm to the touch, and is often painful. In severe cases, blistering may occur, and the skin may peel. If you have sunburn, the following tips can help relieve your discomfort and promote healing.

1. Get out of the sun

The first step in treating sunburn is to get out of the sun. The longer you stay in the sun, the worse the burn will become. If possible, go indoors or find a shady spot to rest.

2. Cool the skin

Cooling the skin can help reduce pain and inflammation. Apply a cool, damp towel or take a cool bath or shower. Avoid using hot water, as it can make the burn worse. You can also apply aloe vera, which has a cooling effect on the skin.

3. Hydrate

Dehydration can make sunburn worse. Drink plenty of water to help your body recover. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.

4. Over-the-counter pain relief

You can take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the instructions on the label, and do not exceed the recommended dose.

5. Moisturize

Moisturizing the skin can help prevent the skin from drying out, which is common with sunburn. Apply lotion or cream to the affected area regularly to keep it moisturized.

6. Avoid tight clothing

Avoid wearing tight clothing, as it can irritate the skin and make the burn worse. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing made from lightweight, breathable fabrics.

7. Keep an eye out for signs of infection

Sunburn can increase your risk of infection. If you notice signs of infection, such as pus, swelling, or a fever, seek medical attention immediately.

8. Stay out of the sun until the burn heals

When you have sunburn, avoid going out in the sun until it has healed. If you must go out, wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.

Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours.

9. Be patient

Sunburn can take several days to heal, so be patient. Keep following the above steps to help relieve your symptoms and promote healing.

10. Prevention is key

The best way to treat sunburn is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen whenever you are outside, even on cloudy days. Be sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, and reapply it every two hours.