If you or a friend are feeling weak and unable to stand, confused, or passes out, you should call an ambulance. Skin that is waxy and white, very dark brown, or raised and leathery are signs of a third degree burn. It is very rare, but it is sometimes possible to suffer a burn this severe from the sun. Seek medical help immediately. [3] X Research source
Fill a clean spray bottle with apple cider vinegar. Test it by first spraying it on a small area of sunburned skin and wait to see if you experience pain or any kind of reaction. Spray the vinegar on the sunburned skin, allowing it to drip-dry. Do not rub it into your skin. Reapply if your skin begins to itch again. If you don’t have a spray bottle, pour a few drops on a cotton ball or washcloth and dab it on the sunburn. [5] X Research source Some claim regular white vinegar as the same effect as apple cider, so you can try using that instead of apple cider vinegar if none is available. [6] X Research source
Run a lukewarm bath (hot water may dry out your skin and cause more itching). [9] X Research source Add the colloidal oatmeal to the running water so it mixes completely. If you are using the stocking, toss it into the bath at this time. [10] X Research source Soak for about 10 minutes. If you feel sticky afterwards, rinse with lukewarm water. You can take an oatmeal bath up to three times a day. [11] X Research source Make sure you pat dry with a towel—do not rub. This can cause further irritation to your skin. [12] X Research source
Dilute the peppermint oil in a carrier oil (a vegetable oil like jojoba or coconut). Add 10-12 drops per ounce of oil for adults. For children, pregnant women, or those with sensitive skin, add 5-6 drops. Test the oil on a small area of your sunburn to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction. Rub the oil into the sunburn. You skin should feel a cold/hot sensation, and the itching should subside temporarily. [14] X Research source
Rub a small amount of witch hazel cream into your sunburn (after patch testing for allergic reaction). Use a cotton ball to apply witch hazel water to your skin. Use witch hazel up to six times a day to relieve pain and itching. [16] X Research source
Apply hydrocortisone to your sunburn 4 times daily, rubbing it into your skin. [18] X Research source Use hydrocortisone very sparingly on your face and for no more than 4 or 5 days. [19] X Research source
Take a non-drowsy antihistamine (such as loratadine) during the day. [22] X Research source Follow the directions on the box for dosage and use. At night you can take a diphenhydramine, which can cause extreme drowsiness. Don’t try to drive, operate machinery, or do anything that might endanger yourself or others when taking this antihistamine. Just go to sleep![23] X Research source If the itching is severe, talk to your doctor about hydroxyzine. It is a prescription drug that sedates your central nervous system and also acts as an antihistamine.
To use the aerosol spray, shake the can well and hold it 4-6 inches from your skin. Spray it on the sunburn and rub in gently. Be very careful not to spray any into your eyes. [25] X Research source For creams, gels, or ointments, apply the cream to dry skin and gently rub until it is evenly distributed. Look for brands that include aloe which can help soothe your skin.
If no other treatment works, including those recommended by your doctor, you may choose to try this method. If you are under 18, talk to your parents first. Take a shower in water that is turned up as hot as you can stand. [27] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Don’t use soap or scrub your skin–the hot water will dry your skin out and soap will make this worse. Continue with the extremely hot showers until the itching subsides (usually about two days). [28] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source The hot showers work because the brain can only process one sensation at a time. The heat of the water activates the pain nerves, which will suppress or shut down the sensation of itching. [29] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
These medications are available by prescription only, and can weaken your immune system and cause other serious side effects. They should only be used in the most extreme cases. [31] X Research source
