Sunburns can be painful and uncomfortable, but there are several natural remedies you can try to help heal and soothe the skin. Remember that severe sunburns or those accompanied by blistering should be assessed by a healthcare professional as quickly as possible. Here are a few suggestions how to heal a sunburn naturally if it is mild:
Get Out of the Sun
As soon as you notice a sunburn, it’s important to get out of the sun and avoid further exposure. Stay in a cool, shaded area or indoors.
Cool Compresses
Apply cool, damp compresses or take cool showers to help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Avoid using ice directly on the skin as it can further damage the skin.
Aloe Vera
Apply pure aloe vera gel to the affected area. Aloe vera has soothing properties and can help moisturize the skin. Look for aloe vera gel without added chemicals or fragrances.
Moisturize
Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe-based lotion to keep the skin hydrated. Avoid petroleum-based products as they can trap heat and moisture in the skin.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to help rehydrate your body, as sunburn can deplete your body’s moisture levels.
Oatmeal Bath
Taking an oatmeal bath can help relieve itching and inflammation. Grind a cup of plain oatmeal into a fine powder and add it to a lukewarm bath. Soak for 15-20 minutes.
Cold Milk Compress
Soak a clean cloth in cold milk and apply it to the sunburned area. The coolness of the milk can provide relief.
Chamomile Tea
Brew some chamomile tea, let it cool, and then apply it to the affected area using a clean cloth. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the skin.
Witch Hazel
Dabbing witch hazel on sunburned skin can help reduce inflammation and provide relief.
Avoid Further Sun Exposure
Protect your sunburned skin from further damage by staying out of the sun until it has healed. If you must go outside, always wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the affected areas, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen.
Stay Away from Irritants
Avoid using harsh soaps, exfoliators, or other skin care products that can irritate the sunburned skin. Stick to mild, gentle cleansers and avoid scrubbing the affected area.
Wear Loose and Breathable Clothing
Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics to prevent further irritation and allow the skin to heal.
Stay Cool
Keep the environment cool and avoid activities that can cause excessive sweating, as this can worsen the discomfort.
Stay Patient
Sunburns take time to heal, so be patient and allow your body to recover naturally. If you experience severe pain, blistering, or signs of infection, it’s advisable to seek medical attention.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with sunburn. Follow the instructions on the packaging or consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosages.
Remember, these tips are not a substitute for medical advice, and if you experience severe symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance. These natural remedies are meant to provide relief and support healing, but severe sunburn may require medical attention.
Do you have any other suggestions on how to heal a sunburn naturally?
I would suggest using a rash guard bathing suit. They have kids and adults rash guard long sleeve shirts. We discovered this two summers ago and have been buying swimming outfits with this. No more burns.
I will keep these tips in mind. I’m in Texas and it’s HOT so getting burnt happens.
I will have my boys try the oatmeal bath next time they get sunburned. Sunburns are awful.
These are all great ideas. I burn so easily, so it’s important for me to heal, and I always try to heal naturally.
Most of these are tips and tricks I grew up doing since I burn more than I tan. Hahaha. Stay safe out in the fun.
I am loving these tips and when I was a teenager I used to use leaves from my moms Aloe plant for my sunburn and it works!
I love these sunburn remedies. Very helpful to know them since sunburns can do lasting damage to our skin.
These seem like solid tips on how to let your sunburn heal without making it worse!
Loved your sunburn healing tips! Your natural remedies and caring advice are a skin-saver. The simplicity and effectiveness of your methods shine through. Thanks for sharing these soothing solutions to a common woe. Summer skin is in good hands! ☀️🌿🌼
This is all very helpful advice. The main things I will do is avoid further exposure and use loads of aloe as it really helps.
I’ve discovered something new like oatmeal bath. My sister husband had a sunburn yesterday and this can help him!
These are the things that we do whenever we have sunburn. Aloe Vera and moisturizer help a lot!
I am glad to hear about it! I really appreciate the tips you’ve shared and I found that so helpful! I will definitely keep these in mind
The one time I got severely sunburned was an unreal experience- I was not prepared at all and could have used these tips! Thanks for sharing!
good to know these natural ways for i do tend to get sunburnt easily and have not tried using chamomile for this purpose before..
I remember back when I was a kid, my Mom would always use aloe vera and it def worked. She never resorted to any OTC med.
I will keep the sunburn remittees in mind. My son burns from time to time when we are at the beach, and I know that these tips will help him.