6 best remedies for quick sunburn relief
Sunburns are known to ruin our summers sometimes and discourage us from enjoying the outdoors. In my defense, it is easy to get carried away and forget to reapply the sunscreen and some of us can get sunburnt even after applying sunscreen.
Sunburns are painful burns caused by UV rays of the sun. When we stay under the direct sun without protecting our skin using sunscreen or clothes, we will probably get sunburned. It is worth mentioning that once you notice that you are sunburnt;
- You should avoid exposing the burn to direct sunlight
- Drink some water or hydrate with other fluids like fruit juices
- Soak a damp wash cloth with cool water and place it on the burn or pour cool not cold water on the burnt skin
- Wear loose cotton clothes to allow the skin to breathe until the burn heals
- Do not apply ice to the burn it can worsen the inflammation.
The remedies below are the most effective that I know of and are vouched for around the web. They work for all burns from mild sunburn to severe sunburn with peeling.
How to soothe and clear sunburn Quickly
Honey
Honey is a known and trusted healer for burns. Simply apply a generous amount of honey to the burn preferably after it has been cooled with coll water or cloth. Leave it for about 20-30 minutes before washing it off. Repeat about 3 times a day.
It might be messy like the oatmeal, but it is one of the best remedies for sunburn.
greek yoghurt
The lactic acid in natural yogurt heals and restores the skin within a few days. Just remember to use it at least twice a day until it heals.
Apply cooled not cold greek yogurt to the burn and let it sit there for 20-30 minutes. Reapply when it starts to dry. Wash it off and moisturise with a natural oil. Use it at least twice a day
aloe vera
Aloe vera is known for its healing and soothing property. Simply cut open a piece of aloe vera and scoop out the gel. Generously apply it to the burn and leave it for 20-30 minutes before washing it off. Moisturise with coconut or olive oil.
apple cider vinegar
When applied to the burn, apple cider vinegar becomes an astringent that reduces the inflammation caused by sunburn. It also restored the PH of the skin.
Using a clean cloth dap some apple vinegar on the cloth and apply it generously and gently to the sunburn. Dilute it a little if the concentration is too much for you.
Allow it to dry before moisturizing with coconut oil or olive oil.
oatmeal
Oatmeal is known to soothe irritated, itchy, and burnt skin. It soothes sunburns very fast and effectively.
Add a cup of oatmeal to your bathwater for soothing relief from the pain, itching, etc. Or make a thick paste of oatmeal and water and apply it to the burn. When you feel better, you can wash it off and moisturize with a natural oil
Green tea
It is ok to use a variety of teas such as black tea, mint tea, green tea, etc. for relief. What is needed is the tannin contained in tea leaves. It helps restore the PH of the skin and soothe burns.
Prepare a strong cup of the tea of your choice and allow it to cool. Once cool, use a towel or cloth to apply it to the burnt skin. Optional, add mint to your tea, the menthol gives boosts its soothing property. If using this remedy, apply it at least 3 times a day.
Tip* After applying any of the above remedies, moisturize your skin with coconut or olive oil. The natural oil fastens healing in my experience.
Conclusion
When treating sunburns, remember to be gentle on the skin when applying these remedies because sunburns are burns. The remedies above will help not just with the pain but also with the peeling and itching.
As your burns are healing, remember to use cool water when bathing not hot or cold water. Avoid the water in pools because chlorine can irritate the burns.
All of the remedies above are safe to use and very effective. Do try them. I would love to know about your experience with them.
I wish you the best, have a nice day.