Why Your Skin Peels After a Sunburn—And How to Help It Heal

We’ve all been there—you spend a little too much time in the sun, and a few days later, your skin starts to peel. It might be tempting to scrub it off or pick at it, but understanding why it happens and how to care for it can make a big difference in your skin’s healing process.

So, Why Does Sunburn Cause Peeling?

Sunburn is essentially a radiation burn caused by too much UV exposure. When the skin absorbs excessive UVB rays, it damages the DNA in skin cells. Your body’s natural defense kicks in to heal the damage by shedding the injured, dead skin cells—this is the peeling you see. It’s a sign your skin is working hard to repair itself.

What Should You Do When Your Skin Starts to Peel?

1. Hands off! Resist the urge to pick or peel manually. This can lead to scarring, infection, or even more irritation.

2. Keep it hydrated. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel. Products containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid are excellent options for supporting skin repair.

3. Skip the scrubs. Avoid exfoliating treatments (even gentle ones) until the peeling subsides. Your skin barrier is already compromised and needs time to heal.

4. Stay cool. Cool compresses or lukewarm showers can soothe discomfort. Avoid hot water, which can further dry and irritate the skin.

5. SPF, always. Sunburned skin is more sensitive to further damage. Protect healing areas with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), even on cloudy days.

When to Seek Help

If your sunburn is accompanied by severe pain, blisters, swelling, chills, or signs of infection, it’s best to consult a doctor. And if you’ve had multiple burns, a consultation with a licensed professional (like me!) can help you rebuild your skin barrier and reduce future risks.

How to Prevent Peeling Sunburns in the First Place

• Apply sunscreen daily, and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.

• Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and UPF clothing.

• Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM–4 PM).

Sunburns can happen to the best of us, but with proper care, your skin can recover and remain healthy long after the burn fades. If you're unsure about what your skin needs next, I’d love to help. Reach out for personalized guidance, and let’s help you regain confidence in your skin.