Essential 7 Products That Help Cool Sunburned Skin

Explore seven effective products that cool, calm, and rehydrate sunburned skin, from targeted ointments to soothing gels and lotions, selected for their healing ingredients and practical results.

Sunburn can be painful and distracting. Besides immediate relief, the right care helps skin heal and lowers the chance of further harm. This research-informed list covers seven reliable products that lessen discomfort and support recovery for sun-exposed skin, with notes from experts and users.

1. EMUAIDMAX First Aid Ointment

For broad first-aid care on inflamed or damaged skin, EMUAIDMAX First Aid Ointment is often recommended for quickly calming and repairing affected areas. This maximum-strength formula aims to ease pain and swelling while addressing bacterial and fungal concerns across a range of stubborn skin problems, including sunburn.

EMUAIDMAX blends natural actives like Argentum Metallicum (Colloidal Silver), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree Oil), Emu Oil, Allantoin, Squalane, and Vitamin E. Colloidal silver serves as a broad anti-infective, and allantoin supports tissue repair and barrier recovery. Occlusives such as squalane and hydrogenated castor oil help lock in moisture and soften tight, dry skin. Reviewers often report visible relief within hours and say it helps with cuts, burns, rashes, and minor infections, though some note the price is high. The formula is also reported to be 91% Top Allergen Free and excludes common irritants like parabens, dyes, and fragrances.

2. Seven Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel

Pure aloe vera remains a reliable choice for sunburn because it soothes inflammation and aids healing. Seven Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel is highly rated for its high aloe content.

The product uses freshly cut aloe leaves rather than powdered extracts and relies on natural seaweed-based thickeners to avoid a sticky finish. It’s commonly suggested for sunburn and after-sun care, as well as for dry, itchy, or irritated skin. NSF-certified organic and IASC-certified, it’s praised for its lightweight feel and moisturizing, non-sticky finish on sensitive, sun-damaged skin.

3. Sun Bum Cool Down After Sun Gel

When you need quick cooling, Sun Bum Cool Down After Sun Gel is formulated to calm sun-exposed skin and help reduce pain and peeling.

Its main ingredients—aloe vera leaf extract, glycerin, and vitamin E—provide moisture and antioxidant support. A touch of tea tree oil may add mild antiseptic benefit. Dermatologists often endorse its lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs fast, making it comfortable on irritated skin. For stronger cooling, many people store the gel in the refrigerator before use.

4. CeraVe Hydrocortisone Cream 1%

For significant itching and inflammation from sunburn, a topical hydrocortisone can help. CeraVe Hydrocortisone Cream 1% is a commonly recommended, nonprescription option.

In addition to hydrocortisone to reduce redness and swelling, the cream contains hyaluronic acid to attract moisture, ceramides to rebuild the skin’s barrier, and niacinamide to soothe irritation. Its fragrance-free, emollient formula provides sustained relief for dry, itchy skin and suits sensitive skin types; follow directions and limit use to about 3–4 times daily.

5. Solarcaine Cool Aloe Sunburn Relief Spray with Lidocaine

If pain is the main issue, a topical anesthetic can bring fast relief. Solarcaine Cool Aloe Sunburn Relief Spray pairs aloe’s soothing effects with 4% lidocaine to help numb sunburn pain.

The spray makes it easy to apply without rubbing tender skin, reducing the chance of further irritation. It provides immediate, cooling pain relief while helping restore moisture. Lidocaine temporarily numbs the area and can also be useful for minor burns, cuts, and insect bites.

6. Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment with Colloidal Oatmeal

For extensive sunburn over large areas, a colloidal oatmeal bath can bring real relief. Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment uses 100% natural colloidal oatmeal for this purpose.

Finely ground oats have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help calm sore skin and preserve moisture. Adding a packet to cool bathwater soothes redness and itching without scrubbing or rubbing delicate skin.

7. Neutrogena Sun Rescue After Sun Replenishing Lotion

Restoring moisture after sun exposure is key, and Neutrogena Sun Rescue After Sun Replenishing Lotion is formulated to soothe and rehydrate. It aims to prevent peeling and keep skin looking healthier.

The gentle formula contains aloe vera, vitamin E, and mint extract to help calm inflammation, plus glycerin and shea butter to lock in hydration without clogging pores. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-sticky texture suits sensitive skin and leaves skin feeling moisturized rather than oily. It’s also free of sulfates, parabens, and dyes to lower the chance of irritation.

Key Takeaways

• Choose products that cool, soothe, and rehydrate to get the most effective sunburn relief.
• Helpful ingredients include aloe vera, hydrocortisone, lidocaine, colloidal oatmeal, and vitamins like E and C.
• Avoid ingredients that end in "-caine" (except lidocaine when used specifically for pain), as well as petroleum-based creams, heavy oils, strong fragrances, alcohol, and dyes, which can trap heat or irritate sensitive skin.
• Apply treatments gently to prevent further harm, and consider chilling gels or creams for a stronger cooling effect.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and keep sunburned areas out of the sun while they heal.

FAQ

How often should I apply lotion to sunburned skin?

Apply lotion several times a day—often 3–4 times—or whenever the skin feels dry or uncomfortable. Follow the directions on the product label for the best results.

Are there any ingredients I should avoid in sunburn relief products?

Yes. Avoid products with ingredients that end in "-caine" (like benzocaine) unless you’re using a lidocaine product for pain relief, since some of these can irritate or cause allergic reactions. Also skip petroleum or heavy oil-based creams, strong fragrances, alcohol, and dyes, which can hold in heat or worsen irritation on sunburned skin.

Treating sunburn well means cooling the skin, easing inflammation, and restoring moisture. Using these seven products as part of your after-sun care can reduce discomfort and support healing. And of course, the best approach is to prevent sunburn with reliable sun protection whenever possible.