If you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach during the July/August vacation, or even going on a vacation with the family, chances are, you will suffer some degree of sunburn. While it is always advised to take precautionary methods like wearing sunblock, a hat, spending some time in the shade or just being conscious of your skin, this doesn’t always work out when you’re having a good time. Having sunburn is never a fun feeling because your skin is inflamed and this can make sleeping very uncomfortable. If you find yourself toasted from a hot, beach day, here are some simple home remedies that you can use to soothe the pain.
Aloe Vera
This tends to be one of the most common home remedies for treating sunburn. Most people have an aloe vera plant in their backyard, which makes it extremely easy to access the cooling properties that this plant’s gel has to offer.
Greek Yoghurt
Thanks to its lactic acid, Greek yoghurt is considered anti-inflammatory and can help with the treatment of burnt skin. Greek yoghurt is said to have a higher concentration of probiotics. This means that if it’s used topically, it can decrease the redness and sensitivity of the skin. If using Greek yoghurt at home, apply to the face or body as a mask and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Cool Water
Keep in mind that the word used was cool and not cold. A cool bath, shower or moist compress can take away heat and pain from the skin. You should avoid scrubbing the skin or using any bath oils or soaps.
Oatmeal
Finely ground oatmeal works as an anti-inflammatory when mixed with bath water. Make a cup of instant or slow cooking oatmeal and then pasteurise until you have a smooth, fine texture. Pour this into a bath and soak, this should provide relief for sensitive skin and the burning sensation.
Witch Hazel
To minimise pain and itching, it is said that you can use witch hazel. Loaded with anti-inflammatory properties, it can be applied to the skin three to four times a day.
Milk
Apply a wash cloth or cotton gauze that has been soaked in cool milk to the affected or reddened area. This will give relief for any redness and discomfort you may be feeling.
Honey
Yes I know, sounds pretty odd to be applying something so sticky to a burn, right? This method of treating sunburn has been dated back to the Egyptians. Studies have shown that honey can work as a better treatment than some antibiotic creams, as it can speed up healing, reduce the risk of infections and ease the pain. Parents, studies suggest that you do not use this method on babies under the age of 12 months as there is the risk of developing Infant botulism if ingested.