The Top 3 Natural Remedies for Sunburns

With summer quickly approaching, many of us will be enjoying our days outdoors, likely at parks or beaches. More time spent outdoors means higher exposure to the sun, which is likely to make you more susceptible to sunburns. While wearing sunscreen is an important step in daily skincare, the intense summer sun can make you and your family more susceptible to sunburns, and you may not be able to wholly avoid them. If you find yourself dealing with a sunburn, here are the top 3 natural remedies you can use to relieve the irritating and burning sensations of sunburns.

1. Aloe Vera

The juice from an Aloe Vera plant is an amazing remedy for soothing your sensitive and itchy skin after a sunburn. To extract the juice, simply slice an aloe leaf in half and scoop out the gel using a spoon. You can apply this directly onto your sunburn for an immediate cooling sensation. If you are not able to purchase an aloe vera plant near you, you can also buy store-bought aloe vera gel to use on your sunburns. 

2. Green/Black Tea Bags

Soaked Tea Bags have essential antioxidants that are a great natural way to alleviate the pain associated with sunburns. Submerge your favourite black or green tea bag in a glass of cool water until the water turns dark. Apply directly onto sunburned skin for as long as you need to reduce the inflammation and pain.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can be used in a multitude of ways, including healing your skin after a sunburn. Do not use this immediately after you burn, as coconut oil will trap in the heat of an acute burn; instead, use coconut oil on older burns to assist the healing process. After your burn has begun to heal, applying coconut oil will protect your skin and help it continue to heal effectively. Gently apply cool water to your sunburn, then seal off the wet area with coconut oil to help it better absorb into your skin.

Taking care of your skin can prevent premature aging, cancer, and other skin issues in the future. Looking for tips on how to naturally care for your skin? The guidance of an expert naturopath can help. Dr. Cecilia Ho, naturopath in Pickering can help you find unique solutions for your skincare needs. Call Dr. Cecilia Ho today to learn how her Naturopathic Medicine program can help you at 905-492-8688.