Almost everyone has a memory of a painful sunburn. The symptoms can range from red, hot, and tender skin to nausea, dehydration, blisters, and peeling. The time spent getting burned is often far less than the time spent suffering. Depending on the severity, discomfort can last for days as the body heals. Unless symptoms are severe (in which case, seek medical attention), here are five simple, inexpensive home remedies to soothe sunburn:
1. Cool Baths: Soaking in cool water draws heat from the skin and eases pain. Avoid cold water, which can cause shock. Enhance your bath with these additions:
a. Essential Oils: Add 10 drops of chamomile or lavender essential oil. Soak for 15 minutes or until you feel relief.
b. Baking Soda or Oatmeal: Adding baking soda or oatmeal to lukewarm water can relieve pain. Submerge affected areas and pour water over your body or dab gently with a washcloth. Pat skin dry, leaving a light oatmeal coating if used.
c. Vinegar: Adding vinegar to bathwater can help reduce the sting.
2. Rubbing Alcohol: Dabbing rubbing alcohol cools sunburned skin quickly due to its rapid evaporation.
3. Vinegar: Vinegar is an effective cooling treatment. Soak towels in vinegar and apply them to burned areas, or spray vinegar directly onto the skin.
4. Egg Whites: For intensely hot burns, separate the egg white and spread it over the affected area for instant cooling. Repeat as needed.
5. Potatoes: Potatoes can also relieve sunburn pain. Liquefy two washed potatoes in a blender (add water if needed). Pat the affected areas with potato juice, wait until dry, then rinse with cool water.
Remember, repeated sun exposure and sunburn accelerate aging and increase the risk of cataracts and skin cancer. Prevention is always better than treatment!
Disclaimer: These are home remedies and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for any concerns regarding your sunburn.