Most people who are careful about not exposing their skin to too much sun make a habit of applying sunscreen on all exposed parts of the body. However, if you neglect your lips, you might end up with burned lips. Sunburned lips could cause symptoms that include swelling, reddening, and even blisters. If you’re not keen on over-the-counter medicines and have some patience, there are several home remedies you can use to heal your sunburned lips naturally.
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is nature’s best healing medicine for skin-related ailments. It hydrates the skin and accelerates the healing process. If you have an aloe vera plant, just slice a leaf, gather the fleshy, gel-like center and keep it in the freezer for a few minutes. Then apply this natural gel to your lips. You can also use natural aloe gel from the store.
2. Tomato
Tomatoes are your natural defense against harmful UV rays and sunburn. They contain a compound called lycopene that has been known to give your skin a natural protective ability against the sun. If you’ve already burned your lips, combine a fourth of a cup tomato juice with half a cup buttermilk creates a soothing mixture. Apply it on your lips and leave if for 30 minutes before washing it off with cold water.
3. Cold Compress
Sunburned skin needs to be cooled down as soon as possible because one of the main symptoms of a sunburn is inflammation which causes the burning sensation along with redness. Take a small towel and soak it in ice water. Squeeze out the water and place the towel on your lips and let it stay there till it’s back to room temperature. Repeat the same to ease the pain.
4. Cucumber Slices
Cucumber is your best ally against pain and irritation. Just make a few thin slices of cucumber and keep them in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. Then place the slices on your lips for 10 minutes. You can repeat this several times a day to help your lips heal faster. The same can also be used on sunburned skin.
5. Potatoes
Potatoes are a kitchen staple and can be your go-to remedy for a sunburn emergency. They can decrease the pain and help with a speedy recovery. Chop a medium sized potato and blend it to form a thick paste. Gently apply the paste to your sunburned lips and leave it on until it dries. Do this twice a day till your lips heal completely.
6. Chamomile
The herb that gives a delectable flavor to your tea can also be used as a home remedy for sunburned lips. Actually, there are two ways in which chamomile can be used to soothe burned lips. For an instant remedy, soak a few chamomile tea bags in water and keep them in the freezer for a few minutes. Apply these cool bags on your lips for a fast recovery. If you have chamomile oil, you can mix 3-4 drops of it with a few drops of sweet almond oil and apply this oil mix directly to your lips.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is one spice you should always have in your kitchen cabinet. It has been used for thousands of years to treat cuts and burns and is still just as useful to reduce pain and inflammation. To make this remedy, combine two tablespoons of turmeric powder with enough water to reach a fluid consistency. You can add yogurt to the mix to increase the hydrating effect. Apply this paste to your lips and leave it on for up to one hour before washing it off with cold water. Repeat this treatment till your lips have healed.
