The 7 Products Top Dermatologists Swear By For Treating Sunburns
In such a tumultuous time, it's nice to feel connected to people, and one universal truth that unites us all is that sunscreen is not optional. (We'll take what we can get.) SPF should be worn daily to protect skin from sun damage and skin cancer — no ifs, ands, or buts.
But even if you slather on the stuff, use a doctor-recommended broad-spectrum formula, and make sure it's SPF 30 or higher, there's still the risk of a sunburn if you're not vigilant. The skin's reaction to ultraviolet exposure can happen in as little as ten minutes outside, meaning even your half-mile walk to the subway can put you at risk.
Not one to take a sunburn lying down, we turned to the top dermatologists for their summer skin-savers for when things get real. Click ahead for their picks.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Well At Wallgreens Ibuprofen Tablets
First things first: Dermatologist Jordana Herschthal, MD, suggests taking an NSAID (aspirin or ibuprofen) to help decrease inflammation and swelling. The medicine will also help with redness and discomfort. Just make sure not to pop one on an empty stomach — it could irritate the stomach lining, and the last thing you need is a sunburn and a stomachache.
Walgreens Ibuprofen, $13.99, available at Walgreens
Pedialyte Pedialyte Advanced Care
Sunburns cause serious fluid loss, so derm Ranella Hirsch, MD, treats a sunburn similarly to a hangover. She suggests rehydrating with a Pedialyte or Gatorade. (Glacier Freeze, please.)
Pedialyte Advanced Care, $5.49, available at Target
Burt's Bees Aloe & Coconut Oil After Sun Soother
Dr. Hirsch turns to this product to replenish and re-condition worn-out skin after sun exposure. Aloe extract and coconut oil hydrate the skin and help to retain natural moisture. Apply this all over (not just on sunburns!) after any sun exposure.
Burt's Bees Aloe & Coconut Oil After Sun Soother, $8.74, available at Walmart
Korres Greek Yoghurt After-Sun Cooling Gel
Made with real Greek yogurt, this cream gel provides an instant cooling effect when it hits the skin. For maximum chill, pop this bad boy in the fridge before use; Dr. Hirsch says it's excellent for relieving the heat and stinging from a sunburn.
Korres Greek Yoghurt After-Sun Cooling Gel (5.07 fl oz.), $26, available at DermStore
Cetaphil Eczema Calming Body Moisturizer
Dr. Herschthal suggests following up a cold compress with a moisturizer containing ceramides, like this affordable pick. Reapplying multiple times a day will keep the skin hydrated throughout the healing process.
Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Body Moisturizer, $14.69, available at Target
Up & Up Anti-Itch 1% Hydrocortisone Maximum Strength Cream
Feeling the burn? Hydrocortisone 1% cream, available over the counter, can help control inflammation and pain, according to Dr. Herschthal.
up & up Anti-Itch 1% Hydrocortisone Maximum Strength Cream , $4.69, available at Target
Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
And finally, wear some damn sunscreen next time you even think about stepping outside to avoid further sun damage. This one is a tried-and-true classic, beloved by everyone from board-certified dermatologists to Zac Efron.
Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $35, available at DermStore
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
This Brightening Eye Cream Is Like A Booster For Your Concealer
9 Under-$15 Body Lotions That Will Leave Your Legs Glowing This Summer
20 Luxury Amazon Beauty Essentials That Are On Sale Right Now