How to treat Sunburn: 10 home remedies for instant relief

Home Remedies for Sunburn

Listed below are home remedies that can help heal and soothe your skin.

1. Cold bath or shower, and cold compresses

This is one of the easiest ways to treat inflammation. Dipping in and out of the water can help to avoid sunburn from worsening. Be wary of pools, as chlorinated water can irritate the skin more.

2. Baking soda and Oatmeal

Adding few tablespoons of baking soda in a bathtub of cool water and soaking for 15 to 20 minutes can help to minimize sun damage. Also, adding a cup of oats to the bath can soothe irritation and help the skin retain its natural moisture.

3. Aloe vera

Using aloe vera is one of the best sunburn home remedies that you can consider. The gel within this plant helps moisturise the skin, reduce discomfort and enhance the healing process. You can use the gel directly from the plant or buy pure aloe vera gel from the pharmacy.

4. Cucumbers

Applying cucumber in form of a paste over the affected area is a fantastic way of treating sunburns at home. They are termed as a natural analgesic and antioxidant that can help reduce swelling and inflammation caused due to sunburn.

5. Vinegar

Using vinegar over sunburnt area may help alleviate inflammation, pain and itching. However, opinions of this remedy are mixed for sunburn relief. If you haven’t used the treatment before on smaller, lighter sunburns, it’s best not to try it for larger, more serious burns.

6. Tea

Some research show that the tannic acid in green and black tea may help pull heat form a sunburn, while the antioxidants present can help repair skin damage. Simply soak two tea bags in cool water and place them on top of closed eyes to decrease swelling and help relieve pain.

7. Moisturize yourself

Applying vitamin E-rich, alcohol-free moisturiser on the skin can help tackle the issue of dryness and reduce irritation. Experts recommend using it only after the skin has cooled following a sunburn

8. Wear loose clothes

Wearing clothes that doesn’t stick to your skin gives some room for it to breathe as it heals from a major traumatic episode like sunburn. Natural fibers, such as cotton or bamboo, make for the best post-sunburn coverings.

9. Coconut Oil

The antimicrobial and moisturising properties of coconut oil makes it an ideal option to help keep the skin hydrated and tackle irritation. However, experts recommend applying it only after the skin cools down and the blistering caused by sunburns goes away.

10. Keep yourself hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is important to retain moisture the body has lost during your time out in the sun.