Last Updated on August 2, 2024 by Veronica Sparks
Sunburns are an unfortunate part of summer fun for many, but they don’t have to ruin your day. Instead of reaching for store-bought solutions, why not try a homemade sunburn remedy? Embracing natural living, these remedies are not only effective but also gentle on your skin. They allow you to connect with nature and enjoy the soothing benefits of natural ingredients.
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Why Use a Homemade Sunburn Remedy?
Using natural remedies for summer woes like sumburn offers several benefits that make it a preferable choice over commercial products.
- Gentle on Skin: The natural ingredients found in these remedies are often gentler and more soothing than chemical-laden alternatives. They provide relief without the risk of harmful side effects.
- Affordable: Homemade remedies are cost-effective. Many of the ingredients needed are common household items or easily sourced from local markets, making them budget-friendly.
- Self-Sufficiency: Creating your own home remedies for common ailments can be a rewarding and empowering experience that connects you with nature. It enhances your overall well-being and allows you to be more self-sufficient.
Related Article: 7 Natural Home Remedies for Common Ailments
Natural Ingredients for Your Homemade Sunburn Remedy
To craft the perfect homemade sunburn relief, it’s essential to understand the best natural ingredients available. Each ingredient brings unique soothing properties to the table, ensuring comprehensive relief from sunburn discomfort.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is renowned for its soothing and healing properties. The gel from the aloe plant provides instant relief from the burning sensation and helps in the rapid healing of the skin.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that helps to hydrate and soothe sunburned skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling.
Calendula
Calendula, or marigold, is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It helps to soothe irritated skin and promotes faster recovery.
Chamomile
Chamomile has calming and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it an excellent choice for treating sunburn. It reduces redness and soothes the skin.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps to reduce swelling and inflammation. It provides a cooling effect that can alleviate the pain of a sunburn.
Yarrow
Yarrow is an effective medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat skin ailments. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help in reducing sunburn pain.
Lavender
Lavender oil is known for its soothing and healing properties. It helps to relieve pain, reduce redness, and promote faster healing of sunburned skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can balance the skin’s pH levels and reduce the stinging sensation of a sunburn. It also has antiseptic properties that prevent infection.
Oats
Oats are incredibly soothing for irritated skin. They help to reduce inflammation and can be used in various forms to provide relief from sunburn.
6 Methods for Homemade Sunburn Relief
Once you have your natural ingredients, you can prepare various remedies to treat sunburn effectively. Here are some methods to get you started.
1. Healing Herb-Infused Oil
A healing herb-infused oil is perfect for applying to smaller areas of sunburned skin, such as the face. To make this oil:
- Use a skin-soothing liquid oil like olive oil or sweet almond oil and herbs such as chamomile, calendula, lavender, or yarrow.
- Place the herb in a jar and cover it with the oil. Note that it’s best to create seperate infused oils for each herb and combine them later if desired. This allows for more customization and alternate uses for your oils later.
- Let the oil sit in a cool, dark place for 3-6 weeks, shaking it daily to allow the herbs to infuse into the oil.
- Strain the herbs using a cheesecloth and apply the infused oil to the affected areas.
2. Sunburn Salve
For larger but mild to moderate sunburned areas, a sunburn salve can be highly effective. Combine your herb-infused oils above with coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera to create a soothing salve and apply it to affected areas.
This mixture should be used for mild to moderate sunburns as applying a salve to severe sunburns can be painful. Use one of the remedies below first for severe sunburns and allow the skin to heal slightly before using this salve.
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3. Sunburn Spray
A sunburn spray can provide quick relief for moderate to severe sunburns. To make this:
- Create an herbal tincture by placing herbs in jars and covering them with 80-proof drinking alcohol.
- Let the mixture steep for 4-6 weeks, shaking it daily.
- Strain the herbs from the alcohol and store the infused alcohol in a cool, dark place.
- Combine the tincture with witch hazel and tea tree essential oil in a spray bottle and spray on affected areas for immediate relief.
4. Healing Ice Cubes
Healing ice cubes are excellent for soothing severe, painful spots of sunburned skin. Start by making an herbal tea using one or more of the herbs mentioned above. Mix the tea with aloe vera and freeze it in ice cube trays. Gently use the ice cubes on affected areas for fast relief on severe burns.
5. Soothing Sunburn Bath
For moderate, all-over sunburn relief, an herbal bath soak can be highly beneficial. Fill your tub with cool water and add finely ground oats, baking soda, and a handful of dried calendula, chamomile, and/or lavender flowers. Baking soda in the bath helps to soothe sunburned skin and reduce inflammation.
6. Sunburn Tea Soak
A tea soak is another effective method for treating isolated mild to severe sunburn. Steep the above herbs in hot water to create a tea. Allow the tea to cool completely, then soak a clean towel in it. Place the moistened towel over the affected area for soothing relief!
Prevention is Key for Sunburn!
While it’s great to know how to treat sunburn naturally, prevention is always the best strategy. Protecting your skin from the sun not only prevents sunburn but also reduces the risk of skin cancer. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses can provide excellent protection.
- Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight, especially during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
- Reapply Sunscreen: Remember to reapply sunscreen every 1-2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
Related Article: Try This Homemade Sunscreen Recipe!
Relieve Sunburn the Natural Way!
Homemade sunburn remedies are a natural, cost-effective, and soothing way to treat sunburned skin. By using ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and chamomile, you can create a variety of remedies that provide relief and promote healing. Remember, prevention is the best cure for sunburn, so always protect your skin from the sun.
Embrace natural living and enjoy the benefits of homemade sunburn relief this summer!