Top 10 Effective Sunburn Remedies

For individuals that have spent extended periods of time outside on a sunny day, sunburn remedies are often necessary and always appreciated. Of course, prevention is always the best remedy so an SPF 30 or higher that offers protection against UVB and UVA rays is always recommended. It is very important to note that when using sunburn remedies, never cover up a burn that has blistered or that is open with oil, butter or ointment because these make the area vulnerable to infection.

Aloe – This fabulous healer is always voted number one a list of sunburn remedies. Take a few leaves from the plant and refrigerate them. When you are ready to use them, simply peel away the top layer of the leaf and apply the flesh that is now exposed directly on the sunburn.

Tea – Brew some tea and allow it to cool and then either put it in a spray bottle or use a cotton ball to apply it to the sunburn. All types of tea are beneficial but spearmint or peppermint tea are especially recommended. Tea contains tannin that speeds up the healing process while it soothes.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Either use a cotton ball or a spray bottle to apply this to the burn or you can make a cool compress with it. It is especially important to keep the sunburn moist. This will help prevent peeling and blistering from occurring.

Cucumber – Slice up a cold cucumber out of the refrigerator and rub it on the sunburned area. They are nice and cool and have soothing qualities.

Aspirin – This is the internal idea on the sunburn remedies list. Taking aspirin within 24 hours of obtaining the burn will short circuit the process that a sunburn goes through, reducing redness and inflammation. Aspirin is recommended over acetaminophen and ibuprofen because it tends to be a bit less stressful on your kidneys and liver.

Lemon Water – Squeeze a few lemons into a couple of cups of water that is nice and cold and then use a soft sponge to apply the mixture to the burn. The lemon acts as a disinfectant, promotes healing and cools the burn.

Baking Soda – Dissolve a bit of baking soda into some water and use a clean cloth to make a compress. You can also add about a half of a cup or so to tepid bath water and soak in it. When you get out, allow your skin to air dry instead of using a towel. Baking soda helps your skin to retain moisture.

St. Johns Wort – Make yourself an ointment using St. Johns Wort essential oil and apply it to the skin. It contains antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It is important to not apply this to broken skin and also, stay out of the sun after putting this on your burn because it makes your skin much more photosensitive.

Calendula – Mix 20 drops of calendula with 4 ounces of water and apply with either a spray bottle or a cotton ball. It can also be purchased as a slave or gel. Calendula will heal and soften the burned skin. It also contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents.

Bath – Adding various products to a cool bath will soothe and heal your sunburn. Remedies of oil stature include bergamot, lavender, peppermint, urtica urens and witch hazel. Oatmeal also gets an honorable mention as being incredibly soothing. Just sprinkle a bit in tepid water and soak. Always air dry a sunburn when you get out of the bathtub. A towel will only aggravate the burn and it wipes away the oils that should be soaking into your skin to heal and protect it.