Summer is the time to enjoy the pleasant breeze, clear skies, and some warmth. Being outdoors in the sun, however, poses the risk of getting sunburns. They are caused due to the overexposure of the skin to harmful UV rays, which cause redness and pain. In severe cases, sunburn also leads to peeling of the skin and formation of blisters. Consistent exposure further enhances the risk of skin cancer.
Wearing clothing that effectively covers your skin and applying sunscreen are the best ways to prevent it. But, in most cases, continuous exposure could perhaps lead to sunburn. The below DIY remedies are easy and effective.
Home Remedies To Treat Sunburn
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a boon to various skin problems. Having anti-inflammatory properties, it promotes a soothing effect to the skin. The glycoproteins present in the gel speed up the healing process by supporting the growth and repair of damaged skin tissues. The minerals provide relief from itching.
How To
- Cut open a few leaves of aloe vera and scrape out the gel into a container.
- Store the gel in the refrigerator for an hour.
- Apply a thin layer of the gel on the affected areas and let it dry.
- Drying indicates that the skin has absorbed the gel completely.
- You could either leave it as is or gently rinse with cold water.
Try this remedy for 5–6 times a day for 2 weeks. In case you aren’t able to find aloe vera leaf, try the gels that are commercially available.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda acts by balancing the pH of the skin. This soothes your skin and reduces burning sensation and itching considerably.
How To
- Add 1 cup of baking soda to a bathtub filled with cold water.
- Soak in for 15–20 minutes and pat dry your body thoroughly.
- Follow this remedy once a day until you see a difference.
Alternatively,
- In a bowl of cold water, add 4–5 tsp of baking soda and give it a stir.
- Dip in a bunch of cotton balls and dab them on the affected area when they are soaked.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been used since ages for treating various ailments. Owing to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, it is considered as one of the best remedies for sunburns. It relieves itching and burning, and promotes faster healing.
How To
- Mix equal proportions of apple cider vinegar and cold water.
- Dip a few paper towels in this solution.
- Now place the soaked towels on the affected area and let them dry.
- Repeat this once or twice a day until you see positive results.
4. Oatmeal
Oatmeal reduces the skin irritation caused due to sunburn. The moisturizing properties help regain the lost natural oils and moisture.
How To
- Grind half a cup of oats in a food processor to form a fine powder and add 1/4th cup of milk.
- To this add half a teaspoon of honey and mix thoroughly to form a paste.
- Apply this on the affected area and let it sit for 20 minutes.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water.
- Do not massage/rub the skin after you have applied the paste, as it could cause mild abrasions.
Alternatively,
- Grind 1 cup of oats in a processor and add it to the bathtub filled with lukewarm water.
- Soak in for half an hour.
- Pat dry and let your skin get enough air after drying.
5. Milk And Yogurt
The proteins, fat, and pH of milk and yogurt moisturize the skin and soothe it. When cold, they prevent inflammation of the affected area and reduce pain.
How To
- Take a tbsp of unsweetened, fat-free, plain yogurt and apply it thoroughly on the affected area.
- Massage for 5 minutes and let it stay for 20 minutes.
- Rinse off with cold water and pat dry.
Alternatively,
- To a bowl, add 1 cup of skimmed milk and 4 cups of water along with some ice cubes.
- Soak a soft and clean cotton cloth in it and place it on the sunburnt area.
- Wait until the cloth dries and rinse with cold water.
6. Black/Green Tea
Both black and green teas are loaded with antioxidants, which help in the faster healing of the sunburnt skin. They also reduce inflammation and restore the pH of the skin.
How To
- Place 4–5 tea bags in a pot of hot water and let them steep.
- Now remove the tea bags and let the tea cool down to room temperature.
- Soak a soft and clean cloth in the tea and place it on the affected area.
- Take it off once the cloth is dry.
- Repeat this for 3–4 times a day to see quick results.
7. Potatoes
The natural starches present in potato provide an instant relief from skin irritation caused due to sunburn. The starches also work as an effective de-tan agent, helping you retain your normal complexion.
How To
- Take 1 large peeled potato and cube it into smaller chunks.
- Blend these to form a fine paste.
- Apply the paste on the affected and wait until it is completely dry.
- Rinse with cold water.
- For faster results, repeat this remedy thrice a day.
8. Lavender Oil
Lavender essential oil is known for its healing and soothing properties. Be it topical application, inhalation, or misting, it promotes benefits in all the forms.
How To
- Add 1 tsp of lavender oil in a misting bottle containing 2 oz water.
- Shake it thoroughly and mist the sunburnt skin several times a day.
9. Coconut Oil
Coconut promotes innumerable benefits to both skin and hair. Being rich in vitamin-E, it acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. The moisturizing properties of the oil make it easily absorbable by the skin, healing the burn.
How To
- Gently warm a tablespoon of extra virgin coconut oil.
- Apply it on the affected area and massage it for 5 minutes.
- You could leave it as is or pat dry with a paper napkin, in case you find your skin too oily.
Trying these remedies should help you get rid of sunburn in a week or two. But, if your skin continues peel or shows an increase in the number of blisters, in spite of trying the remedies; contact a physician immediately.
