How to Reduce Sunburn Naturally

Sunburn is a common condition that occurs when the skin gets damaged due to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. It can cause redness, pain, peeling, swelling, and blisters on the affected area of the skin. If you have a sunburn, there are natural remedies that can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Some of these natural sunburn remedies are more effective than others, so do your research, including asking for input from your doctor. The best source for skin care information is a board-certified dermatologist. Your approach to care is influenced by the degree you’ve been sunburned. A severe sunburn should be seen by a professional, whereas a mild or moderate sunburn may be treated at home.

Sunburn if repeated over the years can be a major risk of skin cancer. They recently published a report that Utah where I live has more skin cancer per capita than any other state. I was surprised to hear that. Apparently, the general high altitude, very sunny days, and the number of fun outdoor activities throughout the year contribute to the incidence of skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation from UV rays isn’t a joke. Take precautions to protect yourself and your family!

Here are some ways to reduce sunburn naturally:

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is known for its healing properties and is commonly used to treat sunburn. It can help reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process of the skin. To use aloe vera, cut a fresh leaf and squeeze out the gel. Apply the gel directly to the sunburned area and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off with cool water. Top 10 Healing Plants to Grow

There are a number of over-the-counter aloe vera gel products available for sale without a prescription that can provide some sunburn relief.

2. Cold Compress

A cold compress can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by sunburn. You can make a cold compress by soaking a clean cloth in cold water and applying it to the affected area. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes and repeat as necessary. 25 Reasons To Store Bandanas

You may want to start with a cool compress, depending on the amount of skin irritation you’re experiencing. A cold compress may be more than you can deal with initially.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is another natural remedy that can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation caused by sunburn. It contains lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. To use coconut oil, apply a small amount to the sunburned area and massage gently. 20 Uses for Coconut Oil

Be cautious when applying anything topically that may affect how the sunburn heals, particularly if there has been skin damage as shown by blistering with an open sore. You for sure don’t want to expose the wound to anything that could introduce bacteria.

4. Oatmeal Bath

An oatmeal bath can help soothe sunburned skin and reduce inflammation. To make an oatmeal bath, grind one cup of oatmeal in a blender or food processor and add it to a warm bath. Soak in the bath for 20-30 minutes and rinse off with cool water. What to Do with Steel Cut Oats Besides Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is often used to treat sunburn. Once the oatmeal is ground, as mentioned above, it is mixed into a bath where large swatches to sunburn can be treated. It acts as a moisturizer for sunburn, which can help with dry and flaky skin. Colloidal oatmeal has been ground very fine and still contains the bran, germ, and endosperm, whereas regular oatmeal we often eat for breakfast generally only contains the oat groat.

5. Green Tea

Green tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation and redness caused by sunburn. To use green tea, brew a cup of green tea and let it cool to room temperature. Soak a clean cloth in the tea and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Green Tea: Everything You Need to Know

Apple cider vinegar has also been shown to help with sunburn. It is a natural astringent that soothes pain and promotes healing. It can help with the tendency to scratch the area as it eases itching and inflammation.

6. Stay Hydrated

Sunburn can cause dehydration, so it’s important to drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Drinking water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the skin. How To Know When Someone Is Severely Dehydrated

Some drinks help to hydrate the body better than others. We’re told to get plenty of electrolytes when we plan on much sun exposure. Check the ingredients of your favorite hot weather to make sure they contain electrolytes in abundance. Some medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen may help to reduce fever. Don’t give these medications to young children without guidance from a healthcare provider.

If the sunburn has caused symptoms like fever, headache, chills, and vomiting from nausea, you could lose body fluids and bring on dehydration. This can become pretty serious, so if you have any questions, consult a healthcare provider ASAP.

7. Vitamins E and C

Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant properties and can help reduce inflammation and protect the skin from further damage caused by the sun. To use vitamin E, break open a capsule and apply the oil directly to the sunburned area. Vitamin D Deficiency is Common: Start Stocking It

Vitamin C has been shown to help repair the redness from sunburn. It also slows the formation of pigment brown spots in the skin by reducing the amount of tyrosinase enzyme in the body.

8. Honey

Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sunburned skin and promote healing. To use honey, apply a small amount to the affected area and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off with cool water. Emergency Prepping with Honey Bees

9. Cucumber

Cucumber has a cooling effect on the skin and can help reduce redness and inflammation caused by sunburn. To use cucumber, slice it into thin pieces and place them on the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Cucumbers: Everything You Need to Know

10. Avoid the Sun

The best way to prevent sunburn is to avoid sun exposure during peak hours, wear protective clothing like a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved shirt, and sunglasses, and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher. Mark has light skin and has found a lotion with SPF 70 is very effective to ward off sunburn. If you do get sunburned, these natural remedies can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. What To Stock Up On In July

11. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help reduce inflammation and soothe sunburned skin. Apply witch hazel directly to the affected area with a cotton ball or spray bottle. Witch Hazel: Everything You Need to Know

12. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in sunburned skin. Dilute tea tree oil with water or carrier oil and apply it to the affected area. 101 Homesteading Skills We Need To Teach

13. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by sunburn. Mix lavender oil with a “carrier oil” and apply it to the affected area. Lavender: Everything You Need to Know

14. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt can help reduce inflammation and soothe sunburned skin. Add two cups of Epsom salt to a warm bath and soak for 20-30 minutes. 15 Reasons Why I Store Epsom Salts

15. Cornstarch

Cornstarch can help soothe sunburned skin and reduce inflammation. Mix cornstarch with water to make a paste and apply it to the affected area.

16. Baking Soda

Baking soda has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and soothe sunburned skin. Mix baking soda with water to make a paste and apply it to the affected area. Baking Soda: Everything You Need to Know

17. Chamomile

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by sunburn. Brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool to room temperature. Soak a clean washcloth in the tea and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Top 10 Healing Plants to Grow

18. Calendula

Calendula has anti-inflammatory and healing properties that can help soothe sunburned skin and promote healing. Apply calendula cream or ointment to the affected area. Which Flowers are Great for Vegetable Gardens

19. Cooled Black Tea

Black tea contains tannic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and soothe sunburned skin. Brew a cup of black tea and let it cool to room temperature. Soak a clean cloth in the tea and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. The Best Herbal Plants to Grow for Homemade Tea

20. Potato

Potato has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and inflammation caused by sunburn. Cut a potato into thin slices and place them on the affected area for 10-15 minutes. 15 Ways To Use Cheap Potatoes

What are some other approaches to soothe the pain from sunburn?

Consider trying the following steps to help soothe that sunburn:

• Take a cool bath
• Use cool water when taking showers
• Wear loose-fitting clothes
• Ask for some hydrocortisone creams that can be applied

Final Word

It doesn’t really matter how old you are because we all forget what to do in case of sunburn. Whatever the age, it’s always good to have natural remedies on hand so that you can learn how to reduce sunburn naturally. If you need relief or need to keep the area from getting infected, all of these items can help you! Which one of these items are you more inclined to use? May God Bless this World, Linda

Copyright Images: Sun Burned Legs AdobeStock_78052590 By Federico Massa