How to Repair and Maintain Glowing Skin after a Sunburn

Written by Dr. Usama Hassan

Last Updated on February 9, 2025

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Sunburn happens when the skin is exposed to prolonged UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources. It can range from mild symptoms, such as tenderness and reddened skin, to more severe cases that result in blisters, itching, and peeling. Fortunately, sunburn can usually be managed at home with conservative treatments, leading to a positive recovery. [1]

Articles Contains

How to Repair and Maintain Glowing Skin After a Sunburn
Conclusion
Key Takeaways
Frequently Asked Questions
References

Quick Tip:

To prevent Sunburns

Stay hydrated
Avoid the sun, especially between 10 am and 4 pm
Wear sun-protective clothes when outdoor
Use sunscreen even before applying makeup [2]

Let’s talk about how to maintain your glowy skin if, unfortunately, you suffer from sunburn

How to Repair and Maintain Glowing Skin after a Sunburn

1. Frequent Cool Baths

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Incorporate frequent cool baths or showers into your routine to effectively alleviate pain. After enjoying your bath or shower, gently pat yourself dry to ensure your comfort and well-being. [3]

Keep in mind: Avoid using topical or oral corticosteroids as they do not offer to treat sunburns. [1]

2. Aloe Vera

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Aloe Vera is an effective remedy for sunburned skin. You can soothe and moisturise the affected area by applying pure Aloe Vera gel. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties promote healing, making it an excellent choice for relief from sunburn discomfort.[4]

3. Replenishing Moisture

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Sun exposure dehydrates the skin, making it dull. To restore its health and radiance, use.

Hyaluronic Acid: Incorporate products with hyaluronic acid to attract and retain moisture, keeping your skin plump.
Moisturizers: Choose rich moisturizers with shea butter, ceramides, and glycerine to lock in moisture and prevent water loss.
Facial Oils: Use argan or rosehip oil for deep hydration and nourishment, leveraging their antioxidants and fatty acids. [4]

QUICK TIP: Avoiding petroleum-based moisturizers is best because they can trap heat and worsen sunburn. [5]

4. Cleansing Sweat, Oil, and Grime

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After a day of enjoying the sun, you must adhere to essential skincare practices—cleansing is non-negotiable. It’s critical to wash away sweat, dirt, and oil that accumulate on your skin. This step is vital; without it, your skin will struggle to absorb the beneficial ingredients in your products. Prioritise your cleansing routine to ensure your skin performs at its best. [6]

5. Exfoliate Dead Skin

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During the healing of a sunburn, the outer skin may flake and peel, causing itchiness that makes it hard to avoid scratching. Scratching can lead to pain, scarring, or infection. An exfoliant can help remove dead skin and relieve some itching. [7]

QUICK TIP: Consider taking aspirin or ibuprofen to help reduce any swelling or discomfort [1]

6. Antioxidants

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Antioxidants can help with skin protection and healing, but specific formulations can irritate sensitive skin, so ask your dermatologist if you’re unsure how to proceed.[8]

7. Chamomile Tea

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Chamomile tea is an excellent remedy for sunburned skin and spirits. Prepare the tea as you usually would and let it cool. Once it has cooled, soak a washcloth in the tea and apply it to the sunburned area for soothing relief.

If you are allergic to pollen, it is advisable to avoid this treatment, as it may trigger an allergic reaction on your skin. [9]

8. Manage Stress

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Did you know that stress can wreak havoc on your skin? Excessive stress heightens sensitivity and can lead to unwanted acne breakouts and other skin issues. Taking time to manage stress effectively can make a difference in your complexion! [10]

CONCLUSION

So, here we conclude that every problem has a solution. It just demands a little effort and more motivation. Prevention is always better than cure. Try avoiding sunburns as much as possible because sunburn is treatable, but some other disorders due to excessive sun exposure are not. By following the simple steps explained above, you can regain your glowy skin. Good luck!