9 At-Home Treatments For Sunburn That Work Like Magic

We experience sunburns if we are overexposed to UV radiation. Because of overexposure to UV rays or the ultraviolet rays found in the sunlight, our skin gets damaged.  However, sunburns can also occur when we are exposed to artificial sources of ultraviolet light for a longer time. It would be right to say that sunburn is radiation burn.

When you have sunburn, your skin starts turning red within two to six hours and it continues to develop sunburn for the next few days. Though severe cases of sunburns require medical attention, mild cases of sunburns can be treated at home by some natural means. Let us explore some of the at-home treatments for sunburns that can work like magic.

1. Take A Shower In Cool Water

   The first thing that you should do if you experience sunburn is to allow your skin to cool down. It has been suggested by the American Academy of Dermatology to take a shower but make sure not to scrub the skin or use any soap or bath oils (since they can result in excessive dryness). After taking bath, pat yourself dry gently by ensuring that some water is left on the skin.⁽¹⁾

2. Use Aloe Vera On The Affected Area

   Aloe vera is one of the most common ingredients used for dealing with several skin issues. It can also be used to get relief from sunburns as the presence of vitamin B and vitamin C in the aloe vera offers a soothing sensation. You can gently run the aloe vera gel directly on your affected skin.⁽²⁾

3. Cold Compress For Instant Relief Against Sunburn

   One more easy at-home treatment for sunburn is using a cold compress to reduce pain, heat, and swelling. Simply wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to the sunburn portions of your skin. However, make it a strict note not to place ice directly on the skin, since it can worsen the condition.

4. Green Tea And Black Tea To Treat Sunburn

   Green tea is known for its amazing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This can be used to deal with sunburns on the skin. It reduces skin redness and any sort of skin damage. You can apply green tea to the affected area and get some relief.⁽³⁾

   One more home treatment for sunburn could be cooled black tea. This can also be directly used on the sunburned skin to help repair skin damage and remove the heat from the affected area and provide some relief.⁽³⁾

5. Tea Tree Oil Can Work Like Magic For Sunburns

   Most sunscreen products contain tea tree oil in them. This oil can be effective at-home treatment for managing sunburn by improving the flow of blood to the blood vessels of the skin and getting the essential nutrients to the affected or damaged skin.⁽³⁾

   For using tea tree oil you have to first dilute it with some carrier oils, such as almond, coconut, or olive. Make sure not to use direct tea tree oil on the sunburned area.

6. Baking Soda And Oat Bath As An At-Home Treatment For Sunburn

   One more effective at-home treatment for sunburn is the use of baking soda and oatmeal while bathing. Use a few heaping tablespoons of baking soda in your bathtub full of water and soak in it for at least 20 minutes. You can also add a cup of oats to it that would provide you relaxation and soothe any irritation. Do not scrub while taking bath.

7. Stay Hydrated And Deal With Sunburn

   You must drink plenty of water and remain hydrated while dealing with sunburn. When you suffer sunburns, it draws the water from your body to the skin’s surface and makes you dehydrated. So, excessive drinking of water can help you prevent dehydration that might be caused by sunburns.⁽⁴⁾

8. Use Moisturizer To The Sunburned Area

   Applying a good moisturizer to the affected area of the skin can help you soothe the sunburn. It will aid boost the moisture content of your skin. It is good to use a moisturizer that contains soy or aloe vera.

9. Try Witch Hazel To Get Relief From Sunburn

   Witch hazel can also be effective in providing you relief from sunburn. Wet a cotton gauze with witch hazel and apply it to your affected skin for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Do this three to four times a day to reduce pain, swelling, and itching caused due to sunburn. This happens because of the presence of anti-inflammatory tannins in witch hazel.

One of the most important things to keep in mind while treating sunburn is to protect your skin from further sunburn or exposure to UV rays. Wearing tightly woven fabric won’t allow the UV light to come through when you are exposed to the bright light.

Sunburn is usually not severe and can be treated at home, especially the mild to moderate cases. However, if you are frequently affected by sunburn then there are chances that you might develop skin cancer. So, it is always essential to protect your skin, try the above-mentioned at-home remedies and say goodbye to sunburn.

NOTE: Severe cases of sunburns need medical attention.

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