Aloe vera after sunburn: safe, soothing care

Move out of the sun first and cool the affected skin with cool running water or a cool damp cloth. Do not apply ice directly, because intense cold can further injure the skin.

Sunburn is an inflammatory response to ultraviolet injury. Redness, warmth and tenderness can become more noticeable after leaving the sun, and peeling may follow as damaged surface cells shed.

Aloe mainly changes how the surface feels. It cannot prevent peeling once injury has occurred, erase accumulated sun damage or make further sun exposure safe.

After cooling, pat the skin dry and apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, alcohol-free aloe gel. Reapply if it remains comfortable, but discontinue it if stinging, itching or a new rash appears.

Drink fluids according to thirst, wear loose clothing and keep burned areas out of direct sunlight while they recover. Leave blisters intact; if one opens, clean it gently and cover it with a non-stick dressing. Avoid oily products on skin that still feels hot.

Get urgent medical advice for extensive blistering, severe pain, confusion, fainting, marked weakness, vomiting, feverishness or difficulty drinking. Burns affecting a baby, the eyes, or a large area also merit prompt guidance.

Have a blistered area checked if redness spreads, pain increases, pus appears or the skin becomes increasingly swollen and hot. Those changes can indicate infection rather than the expected healing process.

Ask how to dress broken blisters, which pain relief is suitable for you, and when moisturiser can be used on peeling skin. Repeated burns are also a reason to discuss practical sun protection for your routine and skin type.