To treat sunburn fast and relieve symptoms like pain, redness, and itching, follow these expert-recommended steps:

• Get out of the sun immediately to prevent further damage

• Cool the skin by taking frequent cool (not cold) baths or showers, or applying a cool, damp compress to the affected area. Avoid long exposure to water to prevent drying out the skin

• Apply a moisturizer containing aloe vera or soy to soothe and hydrate the skin. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and speed healing

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as sunburn draws moisture from your body and skin

• Take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and pain, if appropriate for you

• Avoid scratching the sunburned skin to prevent irritation, infection, and delayed healing

• Avoid harsh soaps and exfoliation , which can worsen irritation

• Leave blisters intact to reduce infection risk; seek medical attention if blisters are severe or accompanied by other symptoms like fever or dehydration

Additional soothing remedies include oatmeal baths and diluted essential oils (e.g., chamomile or lavender), though these are less scientifically proven

. Sunburn healing time varies by severity: mild sunburn lasts 3–5 days, moderate 5–7 days, and severe with blisters 7–10 days

. Severe sunburns (second- or third-degree) require immediate medical attention

. In summary, rapid sunburn treatment involves cooling the skin, moisturizing with aloe vera, hydration, pain relief with NSAIDs, and protecting the skin from further damage