Summer means that schools are out, the weather is warmer, and there is more time for relaxation, or so we hope. One of the easiest full-day summer activities for families is a beach day, or a day at the lake, pond, or other body of water. After bathing in the warm sun, take a dip in the refreshing water. Repeat this cycle until it’s time to pack up and go home.
Upon returning home, you may notice a shocking sight: your skin is very pink. Did you forget to reapply sunscreen between time on land and time in the water? Did you even apply sunscreen at all? Your skin is warm and vulnerable, and all you want is for it to cool down. So you decide to throw the kitchen skin at your skin in hopes of relieving the pain of your sunburn. Cold showers, baking soda, aloe vera, and all of the tips and tricks may work, but do they work as well as the sunburn relief remedy in this article?
Prevention Is Best
Sun safety is integral during summer, and prevention is the best way to avoid sunburn. About 15-30 minutes before spending extended time outdoors, everyone should apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Additionally, you should bring a hat, wear sunglasses, and cover up with clothing that is breathable and loose-fitting. This is especially important for children and young adults, because sun damage is cumulative.
The more sunburns you get as a child, the greater risk of skin cancer you have later in life, according to dermatologists. If you’ve already had sunburns, or your child has had sunburns, take steps to avoid future burns. This is easier said than done, as the sun hits the skin differently depending on where you are in the world. If you do develop a sunburn, the ingredients in this home remedy can help soothe your burn.
Fractionated Coconut Oil
Fractionated coconut oil is a type of coconut oil that remains liquid, even at room temperature and cooler temperatures. It contains useful antioxidants that work to protect the skin from free radical damage and UV damage. The fact that this is liquid makes it much easier to incorporate into a DIY sunburn relief spray.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Exhibiting cooling, calming, toning, and softening effects, peppermint essential oil is excellent for post-sunburn care. It also contains anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antimicrobial properties that may accelerate the recovery process. Never apply strong essential oils directly to the skin because they are too intense. Always dilute them in a carrier oil to avoid rash or reaction.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil offers a floral scent and it may be the most popular essential oil in the world. In addition to promoting relaxation, lavender essential oil may aid with wound healing. An animal study found that lavender oil accelerated wound healing in its early phase by enhancing the formation of granulation tissue. It may also promote collagen synthesis that may provide relief to sunburnt skin.
Liquid Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera tops the list of ingredients that offer relief from sunburns, so it should not surprise you that it is in this natural remedy. Aloe vera juice is made with leaves of the aloe vera plant. Manufacturers crush and grind the entire leaf to produce a juice, which is rich in antioxidants that boost the health of your skin. Topical application of this juice demonstrates an ability to improve sunburn and several skin conditions.
Home Remedy For Sunburn Relief
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup liquid aloe vera juice
- 1/8 cup fractionated coconut oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
- Glass spray bottle
Instructions:
- Pour about two inches of water into a saucepan over medium-low heat.
- In a heat-safe glass measuring cup or jar, add the aloe vera juice and coconut oil. Place the jar in the saucepan and stir the oil/aloe vera juice mixture until fully liquified and combined.
- Once fully combined, remove the jar from the saucepan and turn off the heat. Allow the mixture to cool for about five minutes and then mix in the essential oils.
- Pour the mixture into a glass spray bottle and store in a cool, dry place. When ready to use, shake and spray and then massage into the skin.
