How to get rid of sunburn: What are the best treatments for peeling and blisters?

As the UK sizzles, make sure you don't too
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Georgia Chambers25 July 2019

Weather in the capital is set to hit a scorching 39C this afternoon as a three-day heatwave comes to a climax today.

So with temperatures forecast to hit record levels, get ready for the barbecues, beer gardens and pictures for the 'gram because hot weather comes around of often as Christmas in the UK.

But just because you're in the UK doesn't mean you shouldn't protect yourself from the sun's rays -because not only does sunburn make you resemble a lobster, but it can also be extremely painful and increase your risk of skin cancer.

So to make sure you don't get caught out this summer, here are the best ways to protect yourself from, and treat, sunburn according to a dermatologist.​

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What is sunburn?

“Sunburn is redness and swelling caused from excessive exposure to the sun’s rays,” Dr Sunil Chopra, Clinic Director and Consultant Dermatologist at the London Dermatology Centre told the Standard.

“The component of the sun’s rays that mainly cause the burn is ultraviolet radiation, although sunburn may also happen after exposure to other UV light sources such as tanning machines.”

Can you still burn if you’re wearing fake tan?

Slathering on the fake tan may be safer for you than tanning in the sun, but it’s not protective.

“You can most certainly burn if you are wearing fake tan,” says Dr Chopra.

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Does sunburn turn into a tan?

If you’re unlucky enough to get sunburn and are quietly praying it turns into a tan, you’d be sadly mistaken.

Dr Chopra explains that sunburn can turn into a tan in some people but not all. “If you are very pale, sunburn does not necessarily turn into a tan.”

How long does sunburn last?

A sunburn can last as long as 5-7 days.

How to reduce redness of sunburn

Dr Chopra said: “If you do get sunburnt, take two aspirins immediately and then two every four hours.

“You can buy a topical steroid over the counter which is 1% Hydrocortisone cream and apply this twice daily for three days and keep your skin well moisturised.”

How to treat peeling skin

Another nasty side effect of sunburn? Dry, peeling skin.

To best treat this, Dr Chopra says you should use 1% Hydrocortisone and moisturise, which will help reduce redness as well as treat the peeling skin.

How to treat sunburn blisters

If blisters begin to appear on the skin as a result of sunburn, it’s important to seek medical help as soon as you can.

“Once you have blistered when exposed to sun, this is a severe and serious form of sunburn and is best managed by a doctor or preferably a dermatologist,” encourages Dr Chopra.

“The blisters would need to be burst and drained and a potent topical steroid applied.”

What are the best products to use to treat sunburn?

Aloe vera cream or gel can help soothe sunburn.
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Anything that has moisturising properties will help sunburn.

Dr Chopra recommends using Aloe Vera gel, Sudocrem or E45 cream.

How long should you avoid exposure to the sun after getting burnt?

“You should avoid exposure to the sun at least a week after getting burnt,” instructs Dr Chopra.

Is there anything you can take to help with sunburn pain?

There are a number of over-the-counter treatments you can buy to help treat painful sunburn.

Dr Chopra says: “You can take nonsteroidal or anti-inflammatory drugs for sunburn pains such as ibuprofen and paracetamol.”

Top tips for preventing sunburn

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Here are some of Dr Chopra’s top tips for preventing sunburn:

  • Avoid sun exposure between 12-3pm
  • Wear protective clothing including a hat
  • Regularly apply a sunscreen with SPF of between 30 and 50