Natural Sunburn Relief

We’ve all been there… Despite your best efforts to be sun safe, you feel that flush that turns into a searing burn at the end of a day out in the sun’s rays. 

While prevention trumps all else when it comes to the sun and our skin, there are some natural ways to relieve sunburn when it does sneak up on us. 

We require sunlight on our skin in order to produce Vitamin D, an essential element in maintaining healthy bones, muscles, teeth and supporting a healthy immune system.  Vitamin D also plays a big role in mood regulation. 

However, it’s not just the Vitamin D that is of benefit. Exposing ourselves to natural light also boosts mood by boosting serotonin levels, helps with better sleep, and can help improve certain skin conditions. 

But when we over indulge, we risk sun damage which can lead to skin cancer. 

So first things first, let’s review our sun safe tips!

Dr. Marita’s Sun Safe Tips

1. Stay out of the direct sun between 10 am - 3 pm

Plan to enjoy the Sun in the morning or late afternoon to evening where you can still get all of the benefits with a lot less risk. 

2. Seek Shade

Plan to have a place to ‘escape’ the sun when you’ve had enough or when the Sun is high in the sky, such as the shade of a tree, or an umbrella.

3. Layers are your best friend

Opt for layers of loose and breathable clothing such as cotton or linen to avoid getting too hot while being able to throw something on to protect your skin.

4. Drink Lots of Fluids

Make sure to stay hydrated as sun exposure draws fluids out of the body and they need to be replenished faster. Remember that alcohol, caffeine, or soft drinks are not hydrating. Stick with water as much as you can!

5. Mineral Based Sunscreens

I recommend sticking with natural sunscreens that rely on active ingredients that have low toxicity levels. 

Many natural sunscreens use the minerals Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide as the active ingredient, but there are also certain oils that can achieve moderate SPF levels, such as raspberry seed oil, wheat germ oil, avocado oil, and carrot seed oil. 

6. Support Your Skin with Supplements

 Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that may help prevent UV damage from sun exposure. A good quality fish oil with a high EPA content contains nutrients that can act as protectors to your skin. Vitamin E (with mixed tocopherols), vitamin C, selenium, zinc, silicon are also all excellent skin supporters.

Plan B: Natural Sunburn Relief

1. Aloe Vera: Apply fresh aloe vera or aloe vera gel directly to the sunburned area. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and heal the skin, plus you’ll feel an immediate cooling effect on the skin,

2. Cool Compresses: Apply cool (not cold) compresses, such as a damp cloth, to the sunburned skin. This can help reduce heat and inflammation.

3. Skip your Shower: Avoiding a shower immediately after can help your skin produce its natural oils in order to promote self healing.

4. Oatmeal Bath: Soak in a lukewarm oatmeal bath. Oatmeal can help relieve itching and inflammation in the aftermath of sun over exposure.

5. Coconut Oil: Once the heat has subsided, apply coconut oil to the affected area. Coconut oil can moisturize and help repair the skin.

6. Green Tea: Apply cooled green tea bags to the sunburned skin. Green tea contains tannic acid and theobromine, which can help soothe and heal the skin.

7. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help your body recover and keep your skin hydrated.

8. Cucumber: Place cool cucumber slices on the sunburned area. Cucumbers have natural antioxidant and analgesic properties.

*** Ensure you also protect the affected skin from further sun exposure while it heals.