With the UK currently experiencing a heatwave, many people are spending more time outdoors enjoying the sunshine. Unfortunately, even a short time in strong UV rays can lead to painful and unexpected sunburn. Accidental sunburn can leave skin feeling hot, tight, dry, and sensitive for days, especially when temperatures remain high. While mild sunburn often heals naturally, the right skincare products and aftercare techniques can make a huge difference in reducing discomfort and supporting recovery. From cooling gels and hydrating creams to gentle cleansers and barrier-repair treatments, there are plenty of ways to soothe damaged skin and minimise peeling. Acting quickly is especially important during hot weather, as heat and dehydration can make symptoms feel even worse. Whether you have been caught out in the garden, at the beach, or during your daily routine, these easy tips and product recommendations can help calm inflammation and restore your skin.
Cool the Skin Immediately
The first step in treating sunburn is cooling the skin as quickly as possible to reduce heat and inflammation. Taking a cool shower or applying a damp cloth can provide instant relief and help calm redness. Avoid using ice directly on the skin, as this may worsen irritation. After cooling the area, apply a soothing product designed to hydrate and comfort sensitive skin. Aloe vera gels are especially popular because they provide a refreshing sensation while helping reduce dryness. A lightweight after-sun gel with calming ingredients like aloe vera or cucumber extract can help restore comfort without feeling heavy or greasy on already irritated skin.
We recommend: Dermalogica Aqua Jelly
Restore Lost Hydration
Sunburn can quickly strip the skin of moisture, leaving it flaky, tight, and uncomfortable. Rehydrating both inside and outside the body is essential for recovery. Drinking plenty of water helps support healing, while rich moisturisers help prevent excessive dryness and peeling. Look for products containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which help attract and lock in moisture. Thick creams or lotions designed for sensitive skin can help repair the skin barrier while reducing irritation. Applying moisturiser several times throughout the day may help keep the skin soft, comfortable, and less prone to cracking as the burn begins to heal.
We recommend: Dermalogica Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist
Choose Gentle Cleansing Products
Sunburned skin becomes extremely sensitive, so harsh cleansers and exfoliants should be avoided completely during recovery. Using gentle skincare products can help prevent further irritation and support healing. Choose fragrance-free cleansers with soothing ingredients that will cleanse the skin without stripping away moisture. Cream or milk cleansers are often ideal because they leave the skin feeling soft rather than tight or dry. Avoid scrubs, acids, and retinol products until the skin has fully recovered. Pairing a gentle cleanser with a calming skincare mist or thermal water spray can also help reduce discomfort throughout the day while refreshing overheated skin.
We recommend: SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser
Protect Skin While It Heals
One of the biggest mistakes people make after getting sunburned is exposing the skin to more sunlight before it has healed properly. Damaged skin is especially vulnerable to further irritation and long-term sun damage. Wearing lightweight clothing, staying in shaded areas, and applying sunscreen daily are all essential steps during recovery. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide are often recommended because they are less likely to sting sensitive skin. Choosing a broad-spectrum SPF product designed for sensitive or damaged skin can help protect healing areas while preventing additional redness and peeling. Reapplying sunscreen regularly is especially important when spending time outdoors.
We recommend: Murad Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Support Long-Term Skin Recovery
Even after the redness fades, sunburn can leave the skin feeling dehydrated and stressed for weeks. Supporting long-term recovery helps restore the skin barrier and improve overall skin health. Incorporating nourishing products into your routine can help repair damage and maintain hydration levels. Ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, and antioxidants are especially beneficial because they help strengthen and protect the skin over time. Overnight recovery masks or barrier creams can provide extra nourishment while the skin repairs itself naturally during sleep. Maintaining a consistent skincare routine and wearing SPF every day can also help reduce the risk of future sun damage and premature ageing.
We recommend: Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Cream