Expert Shares 16 Sunburn Treatments - What Works and What Doesn't

KSL Medical Contributor Phil Cowley weighs in on effective and ineffective sunburn remedies.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:38pm

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph revealing the intricate internal structures of a sunburned hand, with ghostly glowing lines against a dark background conceptually illustrating the delicate nature of skin damaged by UV radiation.An X-ray view of a sunburned hand highlights the fragile nature of skin damaged by UV exposure.Salt Lake City Today

As the weather heats up, sunburns are becoming more common. KSL medical contributor Phil Cowley shares his expert advice on which sunburn treatments actually work and which ones should be avoided, covering a range of options from hydrocortisone to aloe vera to ibuprofen.

Why it matters

With summer approaching, many people will be spending more time outdoors and are at risk of getting painful sunburns. Knowing which sunburn treatments are effective and which can actually make the situation worse is important for providing relief and promoting healing.

The details

Cowley recommends using hydrocortisone 1% to reduce inflammation and redness for the first three days, ibuprofen to decrease pain and swelling in the first 6-8 hours, and cool moisturizers kept in the fridge to immediately reduce blood flow and soothe the skin. He advises against using vinegar, hemorrhoid cream, vitamin E oil, Vaseline, ice directly on the skin, benzocaine or lidocaine sprays, butter or oils, harsh soaps, and exfoliation, as these can further irritate and damage the skin. Cowley also suggests taking oral hydration with electrolytes, using colloidal oatmeal creams, and wearing loose clothing to aid the healing process.

  • Hydrocortisone 1% should be used for the first 3 days.
  • Ibuprofen should be taken for the first 6-8 hours.

The players

Phil Cowley

KSL Medical Contributor and pharmacist who provided expert advice on effective and ineffective sunburn treatments.

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What they’re saying

“Reduces inflammation and redness for the first three days.”

— Phil Cowley, KSL Medical Contributor

“Too acidic. It worsens skin barrier damage.”

— Phil Cowley, KSL Medical Contributor

“Decreases prostaglandins driving pain and swelling. Use for first 6-8 hours.”

— Phil Cowley, KSL Medical Contributor

“Can trap heat and cause contact dermatitis.”

— Phil Cowley, KSL Medical Contributor

“Immediately reduces blood flow, increases barrier and soothes.”

— Phil Cowley, KSL Medical Contributor

The takeaway

Knowing which sunburn treatments are effective and which can actually make the situation worse is crucial for providing relief and promoting healing. This expert advice from Phil Cowley highlights key dos and don'ts when it comes to managing sunburns, helping readers make informed decisions about the best ways to soothe and treat their skin.