Sunburn SOS: How to Treat a Burn and Prevent the Next One

The Gulf Coast is famous for its sugar-white sands, emerald waters, and endless sunny days. But as any seasoned beachgoer knows, those sunny skies come with a serious side effect: sunburn. Whether you’re a visitor soaking up your vacation or a local out for a casual beach day, it only takes one afternoon of unprotected exposure to feel the sting of UV damage. Sunburns aren’t just uncomfortable—they can lead to long-term skin damage, premature aging, and even increase your risk of skin cancer.

Understanding how to treat a sunburn properly and prevent the next one is essential for anyone spending time on our coast. This guide offers dermatologist-approved treatment tips, prevention strategies, and a few product suggestions to help you stay safe and keep your skin happy under the hot Alabama sun.

Why Gulf Coast Sunburns Hit Harder

If you’ve ever gotten burned faster here than you expected, you’re not imagining it. The UV index on the Gulf Coast is often higher than other regions, especially during late spring through early fall. High humidity, reflective sand, and long daylight hours intensify the effects of UV exposure. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin. That means you can still burn even when the sun isn’t shining directly on you.

It’s also easy to let your guard down at the beach. A cool sea breeze or dip in the ocean can trick you into thinking you’re not getting too much sun, but the damage is still happening. Add in saltwater washing off your sunscreen and you’ve got a recipe for a sneaky burn.

First Aid for Sunburns

So you’ve overdone it and your skin is red, hot, and tender. It happens to the best of us. Treating a sunburn as soon as possible can reduce pain, promote healing, and help prevent long-term damage. Here’s what dermatologists recommend:

Start with a cool shower or bath to lower skin temperature and soothe discomfort. Don’t use hot water, which can make the burn worse. Pat your skin dry gently—never rub.

Apply a soothing moisturizer while your skin is still damp. Look for products that contain aloe vera or soy, both of which are calming and hydrating. Avoid creams with petroleum or oil-based ingredients that can trap heat in your skin.

If you’re experiencing significant discomfort, try an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen. This can reduce swelling and redness. You can also use hydrocortisone cream for particularly irritated spots, but don’t apply it over large areas without checking with a pharmacist or doctor.

Stay hydrated. A sunburn draws fluids to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of your body, increasing your risk of dehydration. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or caffeine while your body recovers.

If your skin starts to blister, that’s a sign of a second-degree burn. Do not pop blisters—this can lead to infection. Instead, protect them with loose, non-stick bandages if needed and avoid friction from clothing or gear.

What to Avoid After a Burn

There are a few things you’ll want to steer clear of until your skin has fully healed. Scrubbing or exfoliating can cause more damage and delay recovery. Don’t apply scented lotions or alcohol-based products, as these can further irritate sensitive skin. Resist the urge to cover up redness with makeup—let your skin breathe.

It’s also important to stay out of the sun entirely until your burn has healed. Exposing already-damaged skin to more UV rays will only make the situation worse and increase your risk of long-term damage.

Prevention Is Always Better

The best way to deal with a sunburn is to not get one in the first place. Consistent, intentional sun protection makes all the difference—especially on the Gulf Coast, where UV levels can climb into the extreme category regularly. Here’s how to get proactive:

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Apply it generously 15–30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Don’t forget easy-to-miss areas like the ears, the tops of your feet, the backs of your hands, and your scalp. If you’re worried about greasy skin, try a lightweight gel or mineral-based sunscreen.

Sun-protective clothing can be a game changer. Look for long-sleeved rash guards, UV-blocking swim shirts, and wide-brimmed hats. Sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays also help protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them.

If possible, plan your beach or outdoor time for before 10 AM or after 4 PM, when the sun’s rays are less intense. Use beach umbrellas or shaded areas whenever you can, and take regular breaks indoors or in the shade.

Product Recommendations for Beach Days

While no product replaces good habits, having the right tools makes sun safety easier. Consider these dermatologist-recommended products when prepping for your next Gulf Coast adventure:

Look for mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for strong, reef-safe protection. Brands like Blue Lizard, EltaMD, and Supergoop! offer great options that are water-resistant and designed for active beach days.

Aloe-based after-sun gels like Banana Boat Aloe Gel or Sun Bum Cool Down Lotion can help soothe skin post-sun. For deeper hydration, CeraVe’s Moisturizing Cream is a good non-irritating option.

Hydrating sprays or facial mists can also cool overheated skin on the go. Look for ones with cucumber or chamomile for added relief.

Reusable, UPF-rated swim shirts and wide-brimmed hats from brands like Coolibar or REI can elevate your sun defense game while keeping you comfortable and stylish on the sand.

When to See a Doctor

Most sunburns heal on their own in a few days, but if you develop a fever, chills, nausea, severe blistering, or signs of infection like oozing or increased pain, you should see a medical professional. These could be signs of sun poisoning or a more serious skin reaction that requires additional treatment.

Likewise, if you get burned frequently or have a history of skin cancer in your family, it’s worth scheduling an annual visit with a dermatologist to keep your skin’s health on track. They can recommend tailored prevention strategies and screen for early signs of UV-related damage.

Protecting Your Skin, Protecting Your Fun

Living or vacationing on the Gulf Coast means being blessed with year-round sunshine, but it also means being vigilant. Sunburn doesn’t have to be part of your beach experience. With just a few thoughtful habits and the right products, you can enjoy every sun-kissed moment safely and confidently.

So next time you pack your beach bag, make sunscreen and protective gear just as essential as your towel and flip-flops. Your future self—and your skin—will thank you