You can use a compress as many times as you like throughout the day. Don’t have ice? For an alternative, wet a towel with cold water and fold it so it fits into a sealable bag. Freeze the bag for 15 minutes. Then, take it out and press the chilled bag with the towel against your scalp. [2] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
Sulfates are basically detergents that make shampoo suds up. They also strip your hair of its natural oils so they can be too harsh for sensitive, sunburned skin.
If you want to moisturize your scalp in between washing, wet your scalp with cool water so it’s a little damp. Then, rub some non-petroleum or non-oil-based lotion onto your scalp. Oil can block your pores which traps heat and sweat. There’s no need to rinse out the lotion although your hair may look a little greasy near your scalp.
Don’t use pain relievers or anesthetics that contain benzocaine on your sunburn since these can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Want an easy way to tell if you’re hydrated? Pay attention to the color of your urine—it should be clear or very pale yellow. If it’s bright yellow or amber, you need to be drinking more water. [8] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
If you’re treating a sunburn on a child under 16 years old, don’t give them aspirin since they could develop Reye’s Syndrome.
Blisters are a sign of a second-degree sunburn so you may want to be in the habit of covering your head when you’re out in the sun.
Skip the styling products, too, since most of them have chemicals that will irritate your sensitive scalp. Give your skin time to heal before you start using them again.
Don’t forget to keep drinking water while you’re out in the sun. Your body needs extra hydration when temperatures are high. Try to stay indoors during the peak sunny hours of 10 am and 4 pm.
