how-to-stop-sunburn-peeling

Key Takeaways

  • Sunburn peeling happens because your body is getting rid of damaged skin cells, so cooling the skin early, keeping it moisturized, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding anything that overheats or irritates the area can help your skin stay calmer and may reduce how intense the peeling becomes. 
  • Taking gentle care of sunburned skin by sticking with cool showers, using soothing after sun products, staying in the shade, wearing loose clothing, and resisting the urge to pick or scratch helps protect the sensitive new skin underneath and supports a smoother healing process. 
  • Once peeling starts, the most helpful thing you can do is keep your skin clean, lightly washed, and consistently hydrated with calming lotions or gels while avoiding exfoliants, harsh soaps, and any rubbing so your skin can shed naturally without added irritation. 
  • Peeling usually lasts anywhere from a few days to about a week, and during this time keeping your skin moisturized, staying out of the sun, and letting any blisters remain untouched gives your skin the space it needs to repair itself comfortably and safely. 

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Got a sunburn and wondering how to stop the dreaded peel? We’ve all been there.

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