Beach umbrellas provide little protection from UV rays unless they are very large and made of dense fabric. Sun exposure to can occur even in the shade, as UV rays reflect off surfaces and penetrate through everything from clouds to leaves. [2] X Research source

If you must use a towel, pat your skin lightly rather than rubbing it [3] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source

Consider using a lotion or gel that contains Vitamin C and E, as this may reduce skin damage. [5] X Research source Avoid products that are oily or contain alcohol. If you have access to an aloe vera plant, you can obtain gel straight from the leaves. Simply cut off a leaf, slice it length-wise with a knife, squeeze out the gel inside, and apply it to your burn. Gel obtained directly from an aloe vera plant is extremely concentrated, natural, and effective.

Go beyond the daily recommendation of eight glasses of water until your sunburn has healed, especially if you continue to be in hot weather or participate in sports or other activities that cause you to sweat.

Remember that ice or other frozen substances should not be pressed directly against your skin. Doing so may cause an ice-burn and only make matters worse.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may relieve the pain of a sunburn, but does not have the same anti-inflammatory effects as ibuprofen.

Protect your sunburn by keeping it covered when you go outside. Wear a hat, carry a parasol, and wear fabrics that are tightly woven. In addition, make sure you wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply ever two hours. [11] X Expert Source Mohiba Tareen, MDFAAD Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.

Basements are the best places in a home to recover from sunburns, as they are generally cool and protected from sunlight.

Tannins are a natural astringent, and studies show that they help to heal burns and prevent infection. [12] X Research source

Plain yogurt contains many probiotics and enzymes that will help to heal sunburned skin. [13] X Research source Make sure the yogurt is truly plain rather than vanilla, which contains unwanted sugar and fewer probiotics.

Baking soda has both antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. This means that it will help reduce inflammation and prevent infection. .

Oatmeal contains chemicals known as saponins which will clean your skin while moisturizing it at the same time. [16] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source