How to Sooth Sunburned Skin
Don’t let sunburn get in the way of enjoying your summer season; when you’re outside for extended periods of time, sunburn is often a necessary outcome. Despite the many sunburn prevention tips, sunburn is just a part of the summer months for most of us. Take care of sunburn with these tips and suggestions; remember to apply sunscreen more often than not, and play in the shade whenever possible!
The risks of skin cancer, along with the discomfort of sunburn, are two very important reasons to stay safe this summer and take measures to protect your skin as much s possible. But sunscreen isn’t the only item you’ll apply to your skin this year. There are a variety of natural and plant-based extracts that will do a fantastic job of soothing your sunburn! Here are some tips to get you started:
� Grow an aloe plant! Not only is this a great indoor plant to feature on your kitchen windowsill, but fresh aloe leaves picked off this plant will provide just the right amount of natural skin-soothing botanicals; when you need it!
âÂ?¢ Use peppermint tea bags to create skin-soothing ‘patches.’ You can keep a small container or bucket of cold peppermint tea bags close by, and apply as needed.
âÂ?¢ Don’t shower right away! Your skin has already been stripped of its top, outermost layer. You’ll only irritate your skin’s surface by taking a shower or applying soap/warter. Instead, rinse lightly with cool water and pat dry with a soft towel.
âÂ?¢ Vinegar has many kitchen uses, but can also be used to soothe sunburn. Saok some small hand towels in a bucket of vinegar, and lightly dab at your sunburned skin. A variation of this use is to soak brown paper bags in vinegar and use it as a soothing agent; the component in brown bags that makes fruit ripen, also helps to soothe skin when vinegar is added. Another easy idea is to spritz vinegar all over by filling a spritz bottle; but do make sure to avoid the eye area and label the bottle well so that children don’t misuse it.
� Soak cool tea bags and apply to swollen or reddened skin. This is also brings great year round benefit to soothe your eye area when its puffy, but it also works well as an overall soothing agent on any area. Use a calming herbal tea bag for an added effect.
� Go egg crazy! Besides their kitchen uses, egg whites are a natural skin soothing agent. Separate a few eggs, blend the white mixture, and spread on your skin with a spatula or moist towel. This will cool your skin upon application.
� Use a hydrating or lavender mist. A soothing spritz or mist will instantly cool your skin without you having to touch it directly, and is a great refresher for your body after a dip in the pool or ocean as well!
âÂ?¢ Use plain yogurt. Yogurt helps to soothe your tastebuds when you’ve eaten something too spicy, but can also help cool sunburned skin with a light application. Do rinse off with cool water after letting it absorb for between 3-5 minutes.
As always, limited sun exposure is your best plan of action, and using a sun umbrella, hats, visors, and tents for shade should be your top priorities. You don’t have to worry about sunburn ruining your travel plans and days with these tips and strategies. Either way, be sure to apply sunscreen generously, and stay well hydrated and moisturized.
