Which of the following is an appropriate initial treatment for sunburn?

• A. NSAIDs
• B. Tepid bath
• C. Topical antibiotics
• D. Moisturizers

Answer: (B)

Cooling the burned skin to stop ongoing tissue injury is the key. A tepid bath quickly lowers skin temperature and soothes pain without the risks of ice-cold water, which can cause shivering, vasoconstriction, or further stress to the injured tissue, or hot water, which can worsen inflammation. Starting with a tepid bath helps limit the extent of damage and provides symptomatic relief. After cooling, gently pat the skin dry and apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to help restore the skin barrier and prevent excessive dryness. For pain, an NSAID can be used as needed, but it addresses comfort rather than the initial cooling and tissue-protective goal. Topical antibiotics aren’t routinely needed unless there’s broken skin or signs of infection, and moisturizers alone, while beneficial for comfort, don’t control heat or inflammation by themselves.