What should you know about sunburn itch relief?

Inflammation and a drying, repairing skin barrier can cause itching as a sunburn evolves. It may occur with redness, heat, tightness, peeling, or small blisters. Scratching can tear fragile skin, increase irritation, and introduce bacteria. Itching that is intense, widespread, or worsening deserves attention because the skin may need more than home comfort measures. See [Sunburn](/conditions/sunburn/) and related information on [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/).

Cool the area with a clean, damp cloth or a lukewarm shower, then pat dry and apply a fragrance-free moisturiser to intact skin. Keep nails short, wear loose cotton clothing, and press or tap rather than scratch. Avoid hot showers, fragranced products, exfoliation, and deliberate sun exposure. Do not pop blisters or pull peeling skin. [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) may be useful for dryness; ask a clinician or pharmacist before adding a medicated product.

Get medical advice if itching prevents sleep, covers a large area, persists as the burn should settle, or comes with increasing pain, pus, swelling, or spreading redness. Seek urgent help for fainting, confusion, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, or eye pain and vision changes. A clinician can decide whether [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) fit the skin findings.

Ask which moisturiser is appropriate, whether a blistered area needs examination, and which itch treatment is safe with your medicines or allergies. Mention new rash, drainage, fever, or itching that began after applying a product.