Sunburn is the result of prolonged exposure to strong sunshine, causing red, sore and blistered skin. Protecting your skin from the sun by wearing suitable clothing and sticking to shaded areas reduces the risk of sunburn. However, once the skin has become sunburned, it is important to treat the affected areas as soon as possible to reduce skin damage. These natural remedies are excellent for treating sunburn.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is one of the best natural remedies for treating sunburn and skin irritations, as it is packed with skin-healing properties that help to soothe the skin and accelerate wound healing. Most health food stores stock aloe vera gel, which can be applied topically to treat specific areas of the body. For widespread sunburn that covers large areas of the body, try adding a cup of aloe vera juice to a tepid bath.
Green Tea
Green tea contains properties that help to protect the skin against sun damage, soothe burned skin and speed up the healing of damaged skin. For specific areas of the body, soak green tea bags in cold water, gently squeeze the bags to remove excess water and then apply to the affected area. Alternatively, you can use green tea bags or loose tea to make an infusion, which can be left to cool and then dabbed onto sore skin with cotton wool.
Honey
Honey is packed with antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal properties that promote healthy skin and help to repair damaged skin cells. Honey speeds up wound healing, soothes irritated or burned skin and reduces the risk of skin infection. Honey can be applied directly to wounds and large areas of sunburned skin. Alternatively, you can dissolve the honey in hot water, leave it to cool and then apply it to your skin with cotton wool. Honey is also an excellent skin softener, which helps to prevent the dryness and peeling associated with sunburn.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has long been used as a remedy for treating a variety of skin problems, such as infections, wounds, burns and some skin conditions. Apple cider vinegar contains properties that help to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation and promote healing, making it an ideal remedy for treating sunburn. Apple cider vinegar can be applied directly to sunburned skin, or it can be added to tepid water for a soothing bath.
Sunburn can lead to blistering and peeling of the skin, so it is important to treat affected skin as soon as possible to prevent infection. The above remedies are suitable for treating mild to moderate sunburn. However, severe sunburn should be treated by a medical professional, as sunburn can lead to serious skin damage.