7 Tips to Naturally Relieve Sunburned Skin

Summer season is just around the corner!  There’s no better way to get that good ole’ vitamin D than to frolic in the midday sun… there’s also no better way to get a good ole’ sunburn.  

​Sunburns can range from mild to severe, and they can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Redness
• Pain
• Swelling
• Blisters
• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting

The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin, even on cloudy days. Sunburn can cause redness, pain, swelling, blisters, and even skin cancer. The best way to prevent sunburn is to avoid spending too much time in the sun without protection. If you must go outside, be sure to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, protective clothing, and a hat. 

​If you have a sunburn, it is important to take steps to soothe your skin and prevent further damage.m  Luckily, most of the items on this list can be found in your pantry.

Here are some home remedies that can help:

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that can help to soothe sunburned skin. Apply a generous amount of aloe vera gel to your sunburned skin several times a day.  You can also cut a piece of fresh aloe vera and rub it to the affected area of your skin.  You can find fresh aloe vera at your local health food markets and grocery stores.

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Cucumber Slices

Cucumbers are a good source of moisture and can help to reduce inflammation. Place a few cucumber slices on your sunburned skin for 15-20 minutes at a time.

Milk

Milk can help to cool and soothe sunburned skin. Apply a cold compress soaked in milk to your sunburned skin for 15-20 minutes at a time.

Oatmeal Bath

Soaking in an oatmeal bath or using oatmeal soap can help to reduce inflammation and itching. Add 1 cup of oatmeal to a warm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes.

Calendula Tea

Calendula tea is a soothing and cooling treatment for sunburn. It can help to reduce inflammation, redness, and pain. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your skin from further damage.  Apply a steeped calendula tea bag directly on the sunburned area, or add calendula tea to your bath.

Cool Compress

Applying a cool compress to your sunburned skin can help to reduce pain and swelling. Soak a clean cloth in cool water and apply it to your sunburned skin for 15-20 minutes at a time.

Here are some additional tips for preventing and treating sunburn:

• Avoid the sun during the middle of the day, when the UV rays are strongest. The sun's UV rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm, so it is important to avoid being in the sun during these hours if possible. If you must be in the sun during these hours, be sure to take extra precautions to protect yourself from sunburn.
• Wear sunglasses and a hat to protect your face and eyes. Sunglasses and a hat can help to protect your face and eyes from the sun's UV rays. Sunglasses should block 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. A hat should have a brim that shades your face and ears.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect your skin. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can help to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays. Choose loose-fitting clothing made of tightly woven fabric.
• Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Clouds do not block all of the sun's UV rays, so it is important to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin even on cloudy days. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids can help to keep your skin hydrated and prevent sunburn.
• Take breaks from the sun. If you are spending a lot of time in the sun, be sure to take breaks to cool off in the shade or indoors.
• Seek medical attention if you have a severe sunburn. If you have a severe sunburn, you may experience symptoms such as:
  • Severe pain
  • Blisters
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Discomfort when urinating
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue

By following these tips, you can help to protect your skin from the sun and prevent sunburn. If your sunburn is severe, you should see a doctor. A doctor can prescribe medication to help relieve your symptoms and prevent infection.