Are you dealing with a painful sunburn? This can be one of the most unpleasant parts of summer. Treating your sunburn symptoms will help to heal your skin and reduce your pain. However, you might deal with itchy skin as your sunburn heals. Below, we will teach you how to stop sunburn itch fast.
Why Do Sunburns Itch?
Sunburns itch for a few different reasons. Obviously, a sunburn damages your skin. This damage affects the nerve endings in the top layer of the skin. It causes an unbearable itch, often called “hell’s itch”. Sunburns can also itch as the skin heals. This itch is similar to what you might feel with a cut or a scrape while it is healing. Regardless of the cause, the itching can be pretty intense.
Treating Your Itch
The best way to treat sunburn itch is to use a topical cream or gel. Try aloe vera gel, which is known for its soothing and cooling properties. Gently applying a cold compress can also bring relief. Finally, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever to reduce the swelling and also dull the painful itch.
Protecting Your Skin
Protecting your skin will promote healing. It will also help you to avoid another sunburn. Be sure to wear layers and avoid harsh sunlight while your sunburn is healing. Your skin is very sensitive at this time, so it is especially important to be gentle with it. Protecting your skin can shorten the length of your sunburn, which can reduce the time you spend with an itch. It is also important to let your skin heal. Try your best not to itch or pick at your skin. While this might sound impossible, it is very important for healing!
Talk To Your Doctor
Most people are able to heal their sunburns at home. But if you aren’t finding relief with home remedies, then talk to your doctor. They can check your skin for infections and recommend prescription treatments. Call Everest Urgent Care to talk to a medical expert today.