How To Find a Natural Remedy for Sunburn

The summer sun can be a very welcomed sight, especially after months of cold, blowing snow, freezing rain, and slick ice.  Not everything about sun exposure is a walk in the park, as we have started to learn in the past couple of decades.  Sunburn is among the most obvious signs of trouble.  Starting as a mildly sore redness on exposed skin, sunburn can and does get much worse.  Many sufferers have experienced the severe burn that makes it difficult to shower, to sleep, and even to function in everyday life; the slightest bump can send the victim through the roof.  Worse still is when that deep red starts to blister.  A sunburn can result in serious problems if too severe and uncared for.  Among the many side effects are chills, fever, and the urge to vomit.  In the worst cases, the burns can leave lasting impacts on the skin in the form of uneven pigmentation or noticeable scarring. 

As most are aware, sunburn does heal, without assistance, over time.  Many individuals, however, have come to love the cooling sensation of 100% aloe gel when a long day in the sun leaves it mark.  This also helps to moisturize the skin without locking in the heat.  Over the counter burn creams can also be tremendously effective as they often feature a localized anesthetic, or one can rely on good old fashioned aspirin to handle the pain and inflammation.  While many of these commonly used tricks can help in many cases, the most severe should be seen and treated by a doctor.  There are antibiotic ointments and even oral pills that can reduce inflammation and prevent the possible scarring and permanent skin alterations.

For those who haven’t taken it too far, there are other little things that can offer big rewards in both soothing the pain and even increasing healing time (they might even help stave off the big peel).  The first of these is rather obvious, but something that many sufferers overlook, stay out of the sun.  Sunburn cannot heal with repeated doses of sun.  If you must be outside after a big burn, then make sure your skin in covered in cool, breathable fabrics.  Cool, but not cold, compresses can help relieve the pain and will also reduce the swelling.  Keep the cool in place for twenty minutes at a time, and don’t be afraid to repeat every couple of hours until the worst of the pain has passed.

Aside from aloe, there are other home remedy rubs that can assist a burn in healing quickly and without peeling.  Apple cider vinegar, for instance, is commonly used to prevent the skin from blistering as it mends.  Baking soda is also very beneficial for its ability to cool the overheated skin. Calendula oil, which is derived from the marigold plant, and can be purchased online, has its own advantages to helping soothe skin.  Added to the bath, it will moisturize, soothe, and act as a much needed anti-inflammatory.  For burns to the face, you might also consider cucumber slices for their natural ability to smooth and cool.

For those that desire the healing power of a cold compress, skip the water.  While good old fashioned cold water can do wonders, there are other liquids that can help as well.  For instance, dip an old cloth in milk, and wring out excess, leaving the cloth damp.  Using this to cool the skin will not only reduce swelling, and cool the hot sensation, but it will also help to prevent blistering.  Similarly, stewed hot tea that is allowed to cool can also help the skin.  Consider tea bags containing natural mint extracts.  Contained within this natural beverage are components that will speed healing times while cooling the skin.

When it is time to jump in the bath, and when you don’t have calendula oils available, consider these alternatives.  Lemon juice, peppermint oil, and oatmeal all have beneficial, healing qualities that will help soothe the skin and relax the mind.  Spreading plain yogurt on burned areas, and allowing it to sit for up to twenty minutes before jumping in the shower and rinsing, can also assist in drawing out heat and mending the body.  Before jumping in the tub, remember to keep the water temperature lukewarm to prevent the sizzling sensation upon entering.  Water also helps pull the heat out and increases blood circulation, which keeps the areas hydrated as they heal.  Unless oil is used in the bath, be sure to moisturize afterward.  You can use aloe, which was previously discussed, or you may opt for natural oils such as olive oil, lavender oil, or Jojoba.  All of these will moisturize the skin without trapping excess heat.

Though these methods have been shown to provide dramatic assistance in helping the skin recover, the most beneficial thing you can do for your body is to prevent sunburn in the first place.  When going outside for the day, bring loose, lightweight, breathable clothing that can be used to cover skin at the first sign of burning, always apply and reapply organic sunscreens to protect against the sun’s rays, and be sure to keep hydrated.