5 Low Cost Ways to Soothe the Sting of Sunburn

Sunburn Remedies: 5 Simple Ways to Soothe Pain and Redness

We’ve all had at least one bad experience with sunburn, whether it happened to us or to a family member or friend. The typical symptoms of sunburn usually include anything from red, hot, and painful skin to nausea, dehydration, and, in more severe cases, blistering, peeling, and flaking of the skin.

For anyone who has experienced a severe sunburn, it’s clear that the amount of time spent under the sun doesn’t compare to the length of time it can take to recover from the painful aftermath. The discomfort from sunburn can last for days, depending on the severity of the burn, as the body works to repair the skin and recover from the unprotected exposure to UV rays.

While sunburn can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, in most cases, you don’t need to seek medical attention unless the burn is extensive, or symptoms such as fever, chills, or dizziness occur. However, here are five simple, natural, and inexpensive home remedies that can help soothe the pain and discomfort of sunburn:

1. Cool Baths: A Natural Soothing Remedy

One of the easiest and most effective ways to relieve sunburn pain is by soaking in a cool bath. Cooling the skin in a bath helps draw out the heat from your body, soothing the burning sensation. It's important to avoid using water that's too cold, as this can shock your system. Lukewarm to cool water is best for this remedy.

In addition to the cool bath, you can enhance the soothing effect by adding a few ingredients to the water:

Essential Oils: Adding 10 drops of essential oils such as chamomile or lavender to your bath can help further soothe the skin. Soak for about 15 minutes, or until you begin to feel relief from the discomfort.

Baking Soda or Oatmeal: Adding baking soda or oatmeal to your bath water can help reduce sunburn pain. This works best if you ensure that the affected areas are fully submerged. For areas like your face, you can use a soft washcloth to gently apply the bath water to your skin. Afterward, gently pat the skin dry with a soft towel.

Vinegar: Another excellent addition to your bath is vinegar. Adding a cup of vinegar to your bath can help take the sting out of the sunburn and provide extra cooling relief.

2. Rubbing Alcohol: Quick Relief for Sunburn Pain

Rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly, which can provide an instant cooling effect when applied to the skin. Dabbing a small amount of rubbing alcohol on sunburned areas can help alleviate the burning sensation and reduce discomfort. However, be cautious not to overuse this remedy, as alcohol can dry out the skin. Always follow up with a gentle moisturizer afterward.

3. Vinegar: A Multipurpose Soothing Agent

Vinegar is another effective home remedy that helps cool down sunburned skin. Its acidic properties make it a natural treatment for soothing irritation. You can soak a clean towel with vinegar and apply it directly to the affected areas. The cooling effect will help relieve the burn.

Alternatively, you can fill a spray bottle with diluted vinegar (mixing with water) and spray it onto the sunburned skin as needed. This is especially useful for hard-to-reach areas like your back or shoulders.

4. Egg Whites: Instant Cooling for Painful Burns

If your sunburn feels particularly hot or painful, egg whites can be an excellent remedy. Egg whites are known for their cooling properties and can help reduce inflammation and provide instant relief. Simply separate the egg whites from the yolk, and apply the egg whites directly to the affected areas. Leave them on for 15-20 minutes, or until they dry, and then gently rinse off with cool water. This process can be repeated several times a day to help soothe the burn.

5. Potatoes: A Surprisingly Effective Remedy

Potatoes are not only a versatile food, but they also work wonders for treating sunburn pain. Potatoes have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. To use potatoes for sunburn relief, wash two potatoes thoroughly, then cut them into small chunks. Blend the pieces until they form a smooth paste or juice. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little water.

Apply the potato paste directly to the sunburned areas, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with cool water. The cooling effect will help ease the pain and provide relief.

Prevention is Key

While these remedies can provide much-needed relief, it's important to remember that preventing sunburn is always better than treating it. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can accelerate the aging of your skin and increase the risk of developing serious conditions like cataracts and skin cancer.

To prevent sunburn, make sure to wear sunscreen with a high SPF, seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, and wear protective clothing and hats when outside. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating, is essential to maintaining protection.

Important Reminder: These are simple, home remedy tips, and they should not replace professional medical care. If you have severe sunburn with blisters or if you experience other symptoms like fever, dizziness, or dehydration, seek medical attention immediately.

Disclaimer: This article provides home remedies for mild sunburns. For more severe cases, always consult a healthcare professional.

Final Thoughts

In addition to causing discomfort, sunburn accelerates the aging process of the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer. It’s always better to practice preventive measures to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. With these simple, natural remedies, you can find relief and help your skin heal faster from the effects of sunburn.