How To Treat Sunburn + Heat Rash @ Home

Here are some effective at-home remedies for treating sunburn, heat rash, and other related conditions:

Sunburn Remedies

1. Cool Water and Compresses:
   • Take a cool (not cold) shower or bath to soothe the skin.
   • Apply cool, damp compresses to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
2. Aloe Vera:
   • Apply pure aloe vera gel to the sunburned area. Aloe vera has soothing and healing properties.
3. Hydration:
   • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help your body recover.
4. Moisturize:
   • Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Avoid petroleum-based products which can trap heat.
5. Oatmeal Bath:
   • Add colloidal oatmeal to your bathwater to help soothe and moisturize the skin.
6. Coconut Oil:
   • Apply a thin layer of coconut oil after the initial heat has subsided to keep the skin moisturized.
7. Avoid Sun Exposure:
   • Stay out of the sun until the sunburn heals to prevent further damage.

Heat Rash Remedies

1. Cool Environment:
   • Move to a cooler, air-conditioned environment to prevent further sweating.
2. Cool Bath or Shower:
   • Take a cool bath or shower to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
3. Loose Clothing:
   • Wear loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing to allow the skin to heal.
4. Calamine Lotion:
   • Apply calamine lotion to the affected area to relieve itching and discomfort.
5. Cornstarch or Baking Soda:
   • Dust the affected area with cornstarch or baking soda to absorb moisture and reduce friction.
6. Aloe Vera:
   • Apply aloe vera gel to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.

General Tips for Skin Irritation

1. Hydrocortisone Cream:
   • Apply a mild hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and inflammation. Follow package instructions and avoid overuse.
2. Anti-Itch Creams:
   • Use over-the-counter anti-itch creams containing ingredients like menthol or camphor.
3. Avoid Scratching:
   • Scratching can worsen irritation and lead to infection. Keep nails short and consider wearing gloves at night.
4. Cool Compresses:
   • Apply cool compresses to reduce itching and inflammation.
5. Stay Hydrated:
   • Drink plenty of water to keep the skin hydrated and support the healing process.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If blisters cover a large area of the body.
• If there are signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, or pus).
• If you experience severe pain, fever, chills, or confusion.
• If heat rash does not improve with home treatments within a few days.

By using these remedies, you can help soothe and heal sunburn and heat rash effectively at home.