Picnics, swimming, adventure sports, and a trip to the mountains or beach are all fun, till you get sunburned. Sunburn is a type of skin damage that is caused by direct overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. When your skin is exposed to UV radiation for too long without protection, it can lead to inflammation and redness, often accompanied by pain and sometimes blistering. UV radiation damages skin cells, which triggers the body’s immune response, resulting in symptoms of sunburn. In addition to the immediate discomfort, repeated sunburns can increase the risk of skin cancer and accelerate skin wrinkling and aging.
If you have a lighter skin tone, you are more prone to sunburn. People with darker skin tones can tolerate the sun for a longer time than people with light skin tones.
Depending on the severity of the sunburn, it might take a few days or weeks for the skin to repair itself. If it is mild sunburn, you can easily take care of it at home. But if it is a severe one, please consult a dermatologist for the right treatment.
There are several natural remedies that can help alleviate the discomfort of sunburn and promote healing. Here are some options:
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is known for its calming and soothing properties. You may apply pure aloe vera gel directly from the plant. Scoop out the gel from a blade if aloe vera depends upon the area to be treated. You may keep it in the refrigerator for some time for an extra cooling effect. Aloe vera gel is also commercially available in case you do not have access to fresh. Apply directly to the sunburned area to reduce inflammation and provide relief.
Cool Compresses and frequent showers: Applying cool compresses or taking cool baths can help soothe sunburned skin and reduce inflammation. Be sure not to use ice directly on the skin, as it can further damage the skin. Having cool showers frequently also helps in cooling down the sun burnt area. Pat dry softly after the bath and leave some water droplets on the burnt skin. Apply a good moisturizer on the damp skin, if the area is not too painful to touch. Do not apply petroleum jelly as it may block the pores.
Oatmeal Bath: Grind oatmeal to a fine powder and add to a bowl of lukewarm water. Let it soak in water. Add this mixture to your bathtub. Soak in bath water for some time. It can help relieve itching and inflammation associated with sunburn.
Extra Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as sunburn can dehydrate the body. Staying hydrated can speed up the body’s healing process. Drink some extra water than you normally do to help your body deal with burns.
Coconut Oil: Applying coconut oil to sunburned skin can help moisturize and soothe the skin. However, avoid using coconut oil if the sunburn is severe and painful, as it may trap heat in the skin. Coconut oil is great for skin repair when skin is dry and is on the path of healing.
Honey: Honey has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Applying a thin layer of honey to sunburned skin can help soothe and moisturize the skin. Do not apply honey immediately as it may trap heat. You may start using honey after a couple of days when the healing process has begun and there is no pain.
Vinegar: Diluted vinegar (apple cider vinegar or white vinegar) can help relieve sunburn discomfort. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and apply to the affected area with a cloth or cotton ball.
Cucumber: Cucumber slices or cucumber juice can provide a cooling effect and help reduce inflammation when applied to sunburned skin.
Green Tea: Green tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sunburned skin. Brew a cup of green tea, let it cool, and apply it to the affected area with a cloth or cotton ball.
Milk and Dahi: Soaking a cloth in cool milk and applying it to sunburned skin can help soothe the burn and provide relief. Dahi can also be applied to sunburn for a cooling effect and faster skin repair.
Ayurvedic herbs: Sandalwood paste can be applied to burnt areas for a soothing effect. You may also mix it with turmeric for an antibacterial effect. Neem leaf juice or paste can also be applied to the skin for faster recovery.
Protect the skin while it heals: If you are going out, protect the sunburnt area. Wear soothing cotton loose clothing so that the area does not get exposed to the sun again. Avoid using harsh soaps, exfoliants, or perfumed products on sunburned skin, as they can further irritate it. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free products until the skin has healed.
As your skin is on the way to recovery, do not pick or pop any blisters. Do not peel your skin because the old skin provides a layer of protection as your new skin matures.
Take Away
While these natural remedies can help alleviate sunburn symptoms, it is essential to take preventive measures. Wear sunscreen on all exposed body parts when going out in the sun. In peak summers wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30. SPF or ‘Sun Protection Factor,’ indicates how long the sunscreen will protect your skin compared to not wearing sunscreen at all.
For example, if you apply sunscreen with SPF 30, it means it will take thirty times longer for your skin to start reddening compared to if you did not wear sunscreen. SPF 50 provides very high protection and is recommended for fair or sensitive skin or for extended periods of sun exposure. Also, sunscreen must be reapplied every few hours to be effective, especially if you are sweating.
Along with sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible is essential to avoid sunburn in the first place. If you have severe sunburn like second-degree or third-degree burns, it is best to consult a healthcare professional. Delaying treatment for appropriate treatment rather than using only home remedies. You might need a medicated ointment or pills to treat your condition.