It has happened to all of us at least once. Sunburn is the result of having too much fun in the sun without proper protection. A misconception about sunburn is that people with fair or darker complexions cannot get it. This couldn't be farther from the truth. In fact, anyone with skin can get sunburned. While most cases of sunburn are mild, some cases can be severe enough to cause blistering, swelling, dehydration, and fever. If this happens please seek medical attention immediately. However, if you find yourself with a minor burn, use some of these home remedies for sunburn to treat it!
Aloe vera contains the hormones auxin and gibberellins that have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and cure skin ailments. Therefore, aloe vera gel is best for treating sunburn. You can either extract gel from the aloe vera leaf or you can purchase a bottle of it here.
Black tea is high in antioxidants that help to heal skin. The properties in black tea treat irritated skin and reduce inflammation including sunburn.
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar acts as a topical pain reliever, and it accelerates the healing process of sunburn.
Like the other treatments on this list, oatmeal has healing properties when applied topically. It helps to retain the skin's natural moisture and reduces inflammation.
Due to its alkalinity, baking soda makes for a great topical treatment for sunburn. Not only does it soothe your skin, but it relieves the itchiness as well.
Milk is high in vitamin A, C, and D alpha hydroxy acids, protein, and antioxidants which helps to heal skin ailments and reduce inflammation. One way to provide pain relief from sunburn it to draw up a milk bath.
Coconut oil is packed with fatty acids that moisturize and heal the skin. The vitamin E in coconut oil is a powerful antioxidant that greatly reduces inflammation. You can easily apply it to your skin and let it soak up its benefits.
The most straightforward way to relieve sunburn pain and hasten its healing is by applying a cold compress. Cold compresses work by causing tiny blood vessels to contract which reduces inflammation. You can grab a bag of frozen peas out of the freezer or you can wrap ice cubes in a towel and hold it on the affected area. Some argue that taking an ice bath can also help heal sunburn; however, applying ice directly on your skin will cause further damage.
There is a way for you to enjoy the summer months without enduring painful sunburns. The most obvious way is to stay out of the sun for prolonged periods of time without protecting your skin. Applying sunscreen is crucial in the summer months. Not only does it prevent sunburn by reflecting away harmful sun rays but it helps to reduce the risk of skin cancer. When you're enjoying time in the sun, be sure to have sunscreen on standby and apply throughout the day. When purchasing a sunscreen, consider sticking to those with natural and organic ingredients, for most sunscreens contain toxic chemicals.
Some advise that you wear long sleeve shirts and pants during the summer to prevent sunburn, but how comfortable is that? Wearing wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses is oftentimes enough to reduce the risk of getting sunburn. In addition, the sun's rays are the strongest between 10 a.m and 4 p.m. Therefore, try to stay indoors during this block of time. If you can't avoid the sun, try to stick to spots with ample shade.