Ah, summer. The perfect excuse for long days outdoors and that sun-kissed glow we all crave. But what happens when that “glow” turns into a fiery, painful red? For those of us who take our skincare routines seriously, a sunburn isn’t just an inconvenience – it’s a visible sign of skin damage and a major step backward in our quest for radiant, healthy skin.
The good news? You don't have to navigate the sting alone. This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource for understanding the science of sunburn, treating the discomfort and repairing your skin with a routine of high-end products that will get you back on track.
What is Sunburn? The Science Behind the Redness
Sunburn is an inflammatory reaction to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The sun emits two types of UV rays that affect your skin: UVA and UVB. UVB rays are the primary culprits for sunburn. When these rays penetrate your skin, they damage the DNA in your skin cells. This triggers an inflammatory response as your body increases blood flow to the affected area, which is what causes the redness, warmth and pain.
We all know that sunburn accelerates skin aging and is a leading cause of skin cancer. A history of just five or more sunburns can more than double your risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. So protecting your skin is vital.
Recent research sheds new light on the immediate effects of sunburn. While DNA damage is a long-term concern, this study suggests that damage to messenger RNA (mRNA) in skin cells is what primarily triggers the acute inflammatory response that causes the redness and pain. You can read more about this study here.
Have you ever wondered: why does your skin remain red after bad sunburn? Here's the answer: it’s an urgent, cellular-level reaction.
The symptoms of a mild sunburn are familiar to many: redness, warmth to the touch and tenderness. More severe sunburns can result in blistering, swelling and even flu-like symptoms. As the skin begins to heal and shed damaged cells, it’s common to experience itchiness from sunburn, as well as peeling.
Sunburn doesn’t only happen to fair skin – darker skin can burn too, even if redness is less visible. On Black or deeply pigmented skin, sun damage may appear as darkening, hyperpigmentation or patches of ashy or dry skin rather than redness. These burns can increase long-term risks like hyperpigmentation and skin cancer.
Immediate Relief: Your First Aid Kit for Sunburned Skin
When you realize you have a sunburn, the first priority is to cool and soothe the inflamed skin. The sooner you act, the more you can minimize discomfort and damage. For effective sunburn relief, a combination of at-home remedies and gentle dermatologist-approved products is key.
-
Cool compresses and baths: Take a cool bath or shower to lower your skin’s temperature. Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected area can also help soothe the skin.
-
Aloe vera gel: A classic for a reason, pure aloe vera gel is a must-have for sunburn relief. Its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties provide instant relief, while its hydrating nature helps to replenish lost moisture. For an extra soothing effect, keep a bottle in the refrigerator.
-
Stay hydrated: Sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of your body, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water to help your body rehydrate and support the skin’s healing process from the inside out.
Your Skincare Solutions
As a skincare obsessive, you’ll know the right products can make all the difference. When your skin is compromised from a sunburn, it’s crucial to switch to a gentle, nourishing routine and temporarily pause any active ingredients that can cause further irritation.
-
Gentle Cleansers: The goal is to cleanse without stripping the skin's barrier. Avoid cleansers with harsh sulfates. Instead, opt for a creamy or milky cleanser. Look for options with soothing ingredients like ceramides and glycerin. We love this gentle, soap-free cleanser from Revision and this one from Under Skin.
-
Soothing Serums and Mists: After cleansing, apply a hydrating and calming serum. Products rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E and green tea extract, can help combat free radical damage. Mists with ingredients like thermal spring water or cucumber extract can provide a refreshing and soothing boost throughout the day.
-
Restorative Moisturizers: The most critical step is to replenish moisture and rebuild the skin’s protective barrier. Choose thick, emollient creams over lightweight lotions. Key ingredients to look for are ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and oatmeal. The Double Repair Moisturizer from La Roche Posay is great because it both soothes and protects.
Prevention is Key: Protecting Your Skin for the Future
While you now know how to get rid of sunburn symptoms, prevention is the ultimate strategy for maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
-
Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, rain or shine. Reapply every two hours, and more often if you are swimming or sweating. Research shows that most cases of melanoma could be prevented by staying safe in the sun. We’re huge fans of the Elta MD range, backed by science and a deep medical heritage.
-
Seek Shade: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plan your outdoor activities around these hours or seek shade.
-
Protective Clothing: Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing can provide a physical barrier against UV rays.
Shining a Light on Skincare Solutions
By understanding the nature of sunburn and adopting a proactive, high-quality skincare approach, you can not only soothe the immediate discomfort but also protect your skin from long-term damage. From gentle cleansing to targeted after-sun care, a thoughtful routine ensures your skin remains a source of confidence and radiance, no matter the season.
At Lighthouse, we believe in formulas that are as safe and transparent as they are effective. Our dermatologist-trusted clean beauty skincare blends evidence-based ingredients with skin-friendly simplicity and no fluff or fearmongering. Explore the range.
