A sunburn can happen to anyone, no matter how diligent you are in applying sunscreen. The pain and discomfort can be unbearable and leave you looking visibly red and inflamed.

So what can you do to relieve the symptoms of sunburn and heal your skin? Here are some of the best sunburn solutions:.

1. Cool Compress

Applying a cool compress to your sunburned skin can help soothe the pain and reduce inflammation. Simply soak a clean cloth in cold water and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has cooling properties and is known to help reduce inflammation. Apply a generous amount of pure aloe vera gel to your sunburned skin and let it soak in for at least 30 minutes before rinsing with cool water.

You can also use aloe vera gel to make your own homemade after-sun lotion by mixing it with a few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil.

3. Oatmeal Bath

An oatmeal bath can soothe the itchiness and discomfort of sunburned skin. Simply add a cup of uncooked oatmeal to a warm bath and soak for 20-30 minutes.

You can also create an oatmeal paste by mixing ground oatmeal with water and applying it to your skin for 10-15 minutes before washing off with cool water.

4. Hydrate

Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin hydrated and promote healing. When you’re sunburned, your body loses moisture through your skin, so it’s important to stay well-hydrated to avoid dehydration.

You can also eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and tomatoes to help boost your hydration.

5. Rest

When you’re sunburned, your body is working hard to repair the damage to your skin. It’s important to rest and avoid activities that can further irritate your skin.

Take it easy for a few days and avoid excessive heat, like hot showers or saunas, until your skin has fully healed.

6. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help protect your skin cells from damage caused by UV radiation. You can use vitamin E oil topically by applying it directly to your sunburned skin or taking vitamin E supplements orally.

Be sure to check with your doctor before taking any supplements, as they can interact with certain medications or medical conditions.

7. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Remedies

If your sunburn is especially severe and causing significant pain and discomfort, you may want to try over-the-counter remedies like ibuprofen or aspirin to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

You can also try topical creams and sprays containing lidocaine or benzocaine to help numb the affected area.

8. Natural Remedies

There are many natural remedies that can soothe sunburned skin, such as tea bags, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Soaking black tea bags in cold water and applying them to your skin can help reduce inflammation and redness.

Applying apple cider vinegar to your skin can also help soothe the pain and reduce inflammation. Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can help promote healing.

9. Sunscreen

While sunscreen won’t heal a sunburn, it’s important to remember to apply it regularly to prevent further damage to your skin.

Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

10. Prevention

The best way to heal a sunburn is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Avoid extended periods of time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours (10am-4pm).

Wear protective clothing like hats and sunglasses and apply sunscreen regularly.