Unprotected skin exposed to the UV light of the sun results in a sunburn for most people. The sting and itching of a sunburn makes it uncomfortable to get through a normal day. Several home remedies help ease the pain of a sunburn until it heals completely. Most of the remedies use everyday items that you likely already have in the house.
Cold Compresses
Cold compresses applied to the skin help soothe the pain and itching of a sunburn, according to MayoClinic.com. Dampening a towel with cold water works well for the compress. Avoid placing ice directly on the sunburn, which may cause shock to the skin. Health911.com recommends adding other ingredients to the compress for more effective relief. Apple cider vinegar, baking soda, Epsom salts or milk all work in a compress for sunburns.
Bath
A cool bath offers relief for a sunburn, according to St. John Providence Health System. Adding oatmeal to the bath or using an oatmeal bath product helps reduce the itching often associated with sunburns. Colloidal oatmeal is often used for soothing baths. A cool shower is also soothing for many people with a sunburn.
Creams and Lotions
Creams and lotions can help reduce the discomfort while moisturizing the skin. Keeping a bottle of lotion in the refrigerator offers the added cool benefit. Aloe vera lotion, or gel directly from the plant, works well on sunburns in many cases. Hydrocortisone cream can reduce the pain while helping the burn heal faster, according to MayoClinic.com. Try different lotions and creams to find the one that works best for you.
Folk Remedies
Several folk remedies exist for soothing sunburn pain, according to Health911.com. Plain yogurt containing live cultures provides cooling relief and may help the sunburn heal. The tannins in cooled tea may help the sunburn heal faster. For a more creative approach, slice a potato and press it onto the affected area. Slices of cooled cucumber provide a similar option for relief. Fresh lemon juice mixed with water and sponged onto the area can cool the skin for an immediate benefit and help the healing process.
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