Natural Sunburn Remedies

According to data from the CDC, 70% of people report experiencing sunburn. Overexposure to the sun can cause serious issues such as sun poisoning, skin damage, and even dangerous cancers such as melanoma. This is why it is important to protect your skin and care for it properly.

Obviously, the first-line treatment for sunburn is prevention.

Avoiding over-exposure to direct sunlight and wearing proper skin protection such as sunscreen should be the first steps you take to avoid sunburns. Avoiding sunlight during the hours where the UV rays are the most dangerous (such as midday-afternoon) is also beneficial. Staying in the shade and wearing appropriate clothing that shields your skin from damage will help you avoid sunburn.

People with fair skin should use extra caution in the sun and should use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

If you do end up with sunburn, there are many natural remedies to treat it. 

1-  Aloe

Aloe gel is the liquid harvested from the aloe plant and is widely used as a natural remedy for sunburn, rashes, and general skincare. Its naturally cooling effect makes it a perfect option to treat painful sunburns. Aloe gel also has properties that can treat bacteria and fungi.

2- Menthol

Menthol is made from various types of mint such as corn mint and peppermint. When mixed with a naturally calming base such as shea butter or cocoa butter, this blend will soothe even the harshest of sunburns.

3- Essential Oils

There are many essential oils that are beneficial in the treatment of sunburns such as Lavender, Tea tree, Geranium, Chamomile and Eucalyptus.   To use these oils to treat sunburn, Apply 5-10 drops into 3oz of carrier oil and apply a generous amount to sunburned areas, careful to avoid getting the oils into the eyes, nose, or mouth.

4- Cold Compress

One of the best natural remedies to soothe a sunburn is applying a cool cloth or ice compress to the affected area. Be sure to apply a fabric such as a washcloth or a shirt in between your skin and the ice pack.

5- Baking Soda

As a natural PH balancer, baking soda can help restore balance to sunburned skin. To use this remedy to treat sunburn, create a paste with 1/4 cup of distilled, clean water mixed with 1/2 cup of baking soda and apply to affected areas. Allow mixture to set on skin for 15-30 minutes, then gently rinse.

While the sun is a wonderful part of summer it should be enjoyed in safe moderation with proper clothing, hydration, and skin care!  We here at White Naturals wish you a safe and healthy summer!