After a long day at the beach, discovering burnt and irritated skin can be frustrating. But don’t worry! After knowing how to treat sunburns, you can find a lot of ways to soothe the sting. To alleviate the pain, move into the shade and cool the area with a comfortable compress or a gentle shower. Using natural remedies like aloe vera, coconut oil, or cucumber slices can soothe the sting and promote healing. Staying hydrated is crucial to combating dehydration, while avoiding harsh chemicals helps prevent further irritation. Applying sunscreen daily can prevent future damage, but if you’re already sunburnt, letting your body heal with gentle care is key.
Natural Remedies To Soothe Sunburnt Skin
- Cool Water
Dealing with sunburn can be painful, leaving the skin inflamed, dry, and irritated. To cool down the affected area, a quick dip in cool water from an ocean, lake, or stream can provide immediate relief, but avoid chlorinated pools as they may further irritate the skin. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and consuming juicy fruits like watermelon and oranges can help restore moisture and speed up healing. Applying natural remedies such as aloe vera, a cooling lotion, or a hydrating spray can provide further relief and prevent peeling. Wearing comfortable clothing and staying indoors in a cooling environment helps reduce redness and swelling, allowing the skin to recover.
- Oatmeal
When dealing with sunburn, a cool bath with colloidal oatmeal or baking soda can provide instant relief by reducing irritation and calming the skin. Adding 2 ounces of baking soda or a cup of finely ground oats to cool water and soaking for 10 minutes can help soothe the burning sensation while restoring moisture to the skin.
You can also mix oatmeal with cold milk to create a paste and apply it directly to the affected area for extra hydration. After the bath, gently dab the skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing, as scrubbing can worsen the inflammation. For continued relief, avoid spending too much time in direct sunlight and focus on keeping the skin hydrated to retain its natural moisture.
- Aloevera
For instant relief from sunburn, using aloe vera is one of the best home remedies due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Studies, including a 2024 research review, show that topical application of aloe vera gel promotes wound healing in first-degree and second-degree burns. To maximise its benefits, use all-natural aloe either by scraping the gel from a fresh leaf or purchasing products from stores and pharmacies.
The juice inside the leaf contains antimicrobial agents that soothe and protect the skin from further irritation. Simply apply the extract using a spoon and let it absorb into the burnt area for a cooling effect. Some people also grow aloe plants in their garden or keep them in a pot for quick use. Since scientifically proven research supports its benefits, adding aloe vera to your sunburn treatment routine is an effective and natural way to aid skin recovery.
- Chamomile And Back Tea
For a natural way to relieve sunburn symptoms, tea is an excellent home remedy due to its tannins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. Whether it’s black tea, green tea, or chamomile tea, each has benefits for soothing pain and reducing swelling. Black tea contains higher levels of tannins, while green tea is known for its cooling and calming effects. To use this remedy, brew the tea, let it cool, then soak a washcloth or cotton pad in it and apply it to the affected area.
Chamomile tea is especially useful for managing inflammatory skin conditions and can be applied in the same way. However, if you have allergic reactions to daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or ragweed, you should avoid this remedy. This traditional and widely used method is a gentle, effective, and trusted way to help your skin recover from mild sunburn.
- Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a multi-purpose, natural remedy known for its moisturising and antimicrobial properties, making it an effective way to help the skin heal after a burn. It contains fats like linoleic and lauric acids, which lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated. However, it’s important to be careful and not apply it too soon, as it can trap heat and worsen symptoms.
Wait a couple of days until the burnt area has cooled down before using it. When ready, gently apply it to the affected area after a cool bath or shower, using a damp cloth to prep the skin. It will absorb gradually and help soothe red, dry skin, leaving it softened and protected during the healing process.
- Baking Soda Or Corn Starch
A simple and effective way to relieve sunburn pain is by using baking soda or cornflour, which help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Adding 2 ounces (60 millilitres) of baking soda to cool water in a bath and soaking for 10 minutes can provide instant relief by reducing irritation and preventing further damage. Alternatively, mixing baking soda or cornflour with a little water to create a paste and gently applying it to the sunburnt area helps with healing and minimises peeling.
Avoid scrubbing, rubbing, or using a towel aggressively, as it may exfoliate the affected area and worsen symptoms. Another option is lightly dusting the skin with cornflour, which reduces friction between clothes and the burnt skin, making it easier to sleep and get dressed. These natural, non-toxic, and soothing remedies provide skin nourishment, supporting fast recovery while being safe for sensitive skin.
Conclusion
Taking care of sunburn starts with prevention, like applying sunscreen, wearing breathable clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure. If sunburn occurs, home remedies such as bathing in cool water, soaking in a colloidal oatmeal bath, and applying aloe vera moisturiser can help soothe pain and support skin healing. Drinking enough water is also crucial to prevent dehydration and maintain hydration therapy. If the symptoms are severe, including blisters, nausea, dizziness, fever, or chills, seek medical advice immediately, as these could indicate sun poisoning.
Don’t let sunburn ruin your summer fun—protecting your skin from sun exposure can prevent sunburn in the first place. A doctor may recommend medical treatments and advise on home remedies to soothe pain and ease other symptoms.
FAQs
1. What natural remedy works best for sunburn relief?
Aloe vera is one of the most effective natural remedies for sunburn, as it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help cool and heal the skin. Other great options include colloidal oatmeal baths, coconut oil (once the burn cools down), and chamomile tea soaks.
2. How can I heal a sunburn quickly using natural methods?
To heal sunburn faster, take a cool bath, apply aloe vera or baking soda paste, and keep the skin moisturised with natural oils like coconut or jojoba oil. Staying hydrated and avoiding sun exposure further supports the healing process.
3. Which natural ingredient is best for sunburn treatment?
Aloe vera is widely considered the best natural ingredient for sunburn treatment due to its cooling, anti-inflammatory, and moisturising effects. Other helpful ingredients include baking soda, colloidal oatmeal, and honey for soothing irritation and promoting skin repair.
4. Can turmeric help remove sunburn?
Yes, turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce redness and support skin healing after sunburn. Mixing turmeric with yoghurt or aloe vera gel and applying it as a cooling mask may help soothe sunburnt skin naturally.
