Learn ways to protect your skin this summer & in case of severe sunburn check into our Chattanooga clinic. We’re open daily & accept walk-ins.
Maybe you were cheering on the Lookouts at AT&T Field, swimming at the Chickamauga Dam, or picnicking at Enterprise South Nature Park. Whatever your perfect sunny day in Chattanooga looked like, you’re now feeling the aftermath, hot, red, tender skin that’s anything but fun.
A sunburn might seem like a minor issue, but if not treated properly, it can lead to serious discomfort or even infection. Here’s what to do (and avoid) when you or a loved one ends up with too much sun.
Step 1: Get Out of the Sun ASAP
It might sound obvious, but it’s worth repeating: If your skin is starting to turn red or feel hot, get out of the sun immediately. Every extra minute of exposure adds to the damage and delays healing.
Cover up with light, breathable clothing, find a shady spot, or head indoors. Spend the hottest parts of the day shopping downtown (we recommend starting at Warehouse Row).
Step 2: Gently Cool Things Down
Your skin is inflamed, so the goal is to reduce heat and swelling and soothe irritation. Try these methods:
- Apply cool (not cold) compresses or take a gentle cool shower or bath.
- Avoid using ice packs directly on the skin (it can cause more irritation).
- Don’t scrub, exfoliate, or use harsh soaps on the area.
Pro tip: Add baking soda or oatmeal to your bath water for extra soothing relief.
Step 3: Soothe the Burn with Aloe or Moisturizer
Once the skin is dry, apply aloe vera gel or a fragrance-free moisturizer morning and night to help calm inflammation and promote healing. Aloe is especially helpful for relieving pain and cooling the skin.
Look for moisturizers that contain soy, aloe, or ceramides, and avoid anything with alcohol, fragrance, dyes, retinoids, and exfoliants which can sting or worsen irritation.
Step 4: Stay Hydrated
Sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface, which can leave the rest of your body a bit dehydrated. Drink plenty of water for the next several days, especially if the burn is large or if you’re also dealing with fatigue, dry mouth, or lightheadedness.
Hydration helps your body repair and rebuild skin tissue more effectively.
Step 5: Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief (If Needed)
If you’re dealing with a lot of discomfort, consider ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). These help reduce both pain and inflammation. Just follow dosage instructions and drink water with them to protect your stomach.
What Not to Do
Some popular sunburn “hacks” can actually make things worse. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t apply petroleum jelly or butter. These trap heat in the skin, slowing down the healing process.
- Don’t pop any blisters. They form to protect your skin as it heals, breaking them increases the risk of infection.
- Don’t exfoliate or peel. Let your skin shed naturally.
- Don’t use lidocaine or benzocaine creams. They may cause allergic reactions or further irritation, especially on already damaged skin.
When to Visit AFC
Most mild sunburns heal on their own with good at-home care. But sometimes, a sunburn is more than just a minor inconvenience.
Come see us at AFC Chattanooga if you experience:
- Blisters covering a large area
- Severe pain, swelling, or redness
- Signs of dehydration (like dizziness or very dark urine)
- Fever, chills, or nausea
- Blisters that appear infected (oozing, spreading redness, or foul odor)
With walk-in care and short wait times, we’re here for you seven days a week.
A Final Word on Prevention
Southeast Tennessee has some gorgeous summer weather, but don’t let it catch your skin off guard. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear a hat and UV-protective clothing, and don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating.
Your future skin will thank you.
