aloe vera sun cream - #21032
I am kinda freaking out here. Last week, I went to the beach with my friends because we thought, hey, summer fun, right? But I completely forgot to apply sunscreen until we got there. I had this aloe vera sun cream in my bag but totally spaced on using it. Ugh. Anyway, I ended up getting really burnt, like my shoulders and nose are so red they almost look like tomatoes. I don't even usually burn that much! Now, I've been trying to use the aloe vera sun cream after the fact to soothe my skin, but I'm not sure if it's helping or if I just need to give my skin time to recover. Do any of you guys think that an aloe vera sun cream can actually help mend a sunburn, or should I be looking into something else? I've read some places that aloe vera is good for healing but what if my skin needs something else too? What is the best way to use aloe vera sun cream? Am I better waiting to use it until after my skin cools down, or should I layer it on now? Feeling kinda lost and worried over here... Any insights would be great!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Aloe vera sun cream can indeed be soothing for sunburned skin due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties, but its effectiveness largely depends on the product’s formulation. You’re doing the right thing by applying it post-burn, since aloe vera may help with moisture retention and provide a cooling effect that can offer some relief from the stinging sensation. However, if the burning is severe, you might want an additional approach to aid the healing. Hydration is key in this situation, so drink plenty of water to keep your skin and body hydrated. Consider taking cool baths or showers to help ease the discomfort; just avoiding very hot or cold water as that could irritate your skin further. Pat your skin gently dry rather than rubbing it, and follow up by applying the aloe vera cream directly to the affected areas as soon as you get out, while your skin is still a bit damp to lock in moisture. As for using the aloe vera sun cream, reapply it a few times throughout the day, especially when you notice that your skin feels dry or the initial application has worn off. If your skin feels too irritated when applying it, pausing until the skin cools down might be wise. Keep wearing loose, breathable clothing to minimize further irritation on sensitive skin. Over-the-counter creams containing hydrocortisone can provide a little extra relief if the inflammation is significantly bothersome. And don’t forget to stay out of the sun until your skin has properly healed to prevent further damage. Should see any blistering, swelling, or if the pain becomes unbearable, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as these could be signs of a more severe burn that might require prescription treatment.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.