5 Natural Ways to Soothe Sunburn

Posted on July 22, 2021

We’ve all been there. Lounging in the sun for too long without the right protection can lead to irritating and sore sunburns. Chronic exposure to UV rays from the sun can lead to scarring, wrinkles, dark spots and many more skin conditions.

Instead of opting for chemical remedies, there are many natural ways to soothe sunburn. Here are five of many ways you can treat sunburn naturally.

1. Use Aloe Vera Gel:

Aloe vera gel is found in the tropical aloe vera plant. It is an extremely nutritious plant that contains over 100 active compounds with healthful benefits.

Aloe vera can help treat and repair damaged skin cells due to sunburn, through the action of glycoproteins found in the gel. In addition, it can help speed up healing whilst soothing and cooling the skin through its anesthetic properties. Sun ray exposure can also lead to dryness and peeling, which can disrupt the skin’s natural defense barrier. Aloe vera can help lock in moisture and seal the skin’s barrier to protect against harmful entry of pathogens into the system.

To soothe sunburn with aloe vera, spread a thin layer onto the skin and massage until absorbed. Aloe vera can be applied as often as you’d like, and can be mixed with other ingredients and essential oils for extra soothing and healing.

For a cool hit, keep your aloe vera in the fridge and apply directly onto skin to reduce the skin’s redness and temperature.

2. Avoid harsh soaps:

As the skin is incredibly sensitive after a sunburn, it is important to be mindful of what products you introduce to your skin. Avoid any harsh chemicals and toxic compounds that can further detriment the skin’s condition after a sunburn. Make sure to avoid parabens, phthalates, fragrances, sodium lauryl sulfates and carrageenan. They often lead to skin irritations and won’t do your skin any favors after a sunburn.

Instead, use natural soaps to cleanse your skin gently after sun exposure. A great one to try is castile soap, which is formulated from rich, nutritious and natural oils that moisturize and cleanse without irritating the skin. Simply apply the soap as normal and rinse off for clean, nourished and protected skin.

3. Apply coconut oil to moisturize

Quenching your skin after the drying effects of UV rays is incredibly important - especially to speed up the healing process and avoid peeling.

Make sure to hydrate your skin 2-3 times daily with natural ingredients to seal moisture and nurture the skin from within.

Give your skin that extra TLC by applying a thin layer of coconut oil after your shower. It will quickly seep into the skin, leaving no greasy film or sticky feeling. Instantly rejuvenating and moisturising the skin for an enviable glow.

4. Stay hydrated:

Not only can lounging in the sun dehydrate your skin, it can also dehydrate your entire body. Sunburn also draws fluid away from the body, causing further dryness and cracking.

In order to heal your skin, ensure you are drinking at least two liters of water per day to replace lost fluids. Staying hydrated can significantly impact the speed of your skin’s recovery, so ensure you are filling up your water bottle regularly.

5. Take an oatmeal bath:

If your skin is still suffering post sun exposure, take a couple of cool baths infused with oats. Rich in nutrition and healing powers, oats have very soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the symptoms of pesky sunburns.

Simply add a cup of whole oats to a cool bath, and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Take a dip for 20 minutes, wash off as normal and moisturise. Feel free to add your favorite essential oils to the bath for an extra soothing treat.

Conclusion:

There are many ways to naturally and safely soothe the skin after a long day of sun exposure. From lathering on high quality aloe vera gel, to taking oat baths and staying hydrated, there are many TLC treatments that you can give a try before resorting to chemical ointments to heal and soothe the skin.

Always remember to frequently apply sunscreen to avoid further burns and the detriments of UV rays. Wear protective clothing and stay in the shade during high UV hours for optimal protection and safety.

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