Summer is one of the liveliest seasons of the year. People are always out and about to make the most of their summer. Sporty people play sports and adventurous people travel. Beaches are always packed with people trying to beat the heat. And sunbathers are just about anywhere there’s sunlight and a pool or body of water.
The unfortunate consequence of summer is, however, sunburn. And for people living in hot areas or tropical countries, sunburn can be experienced all-year long. Whichever the case, it would be better to know a few simple tricks to help soothe sunburn once it comes. Here are some sunburn remedies that you can do at home:
Cold compress
Applying a cold compress on the area is probably the easiest way to soothe sunburned skin. The low temperature will help with the inflammation and itchiness of the skin. Just dip a washcloth in cold water and place directly on the affected area for several minutes. Repeat with every need to relieve discomfort. It must be noted that using ice or an ice pack on the sunburned skin is not advisable.
You can also add other soothing ingredients on the compress water such as baking soda or oatmeal before soaking the washcloth. Alternatively, you can use a cold milk compress which will add a layer of protein that will help protect and heal your skin while soothing discomfort.
Yogurt
Yogurt is rich in nutrients and “good” bacteria known as probiotics that are good for healing the skin. In using yogurt for sunburned skin, make sure that you have the plain, unflavoured yogurt with probiotics. Wash your hands before applying and just spread the yogurt all over the affected area. Rinse off with cool water after the pain is gone.
Cucumber
Cucumbers naturally have antioxidant and analgesic properties that can promote healing and soothe the sunburned skin. Simply chill a cucumber or two then mash them in a blender to create a paste. Apply all over the affected area. You can also just use sliced up chilled cucumbers instead and lay the slices on the sunburned skin.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is rich in polysaccharides that will help in healing your skin. Just soak in an oatmeal bath to soothe your skin from redness and itchiness. It would be better to wrap the oatmeal in cheesecloth or simply use a tube sock and let it soak in the bath for a few minutes before getting in the tub. Then, squeeze out the cheesecloth or sock in the bath and soak in it for a couple of minutes. Also, make sure to run the bath in cold water to help soothe your skin.
Sunburn can cause multiple long-term degenerative damages and can promote skin cancer and skin aging even if treated. Thus, prevention would be better. Always wear sunscreen and wear the appropriate clothes for prolonged sun exposure.
