Each of us most likely has at least one memory of a nasty
sunburn. Whether experienced personally, or by a close family member or
friend, the symptoms are likely to include anything from red hot skin -
either tender or painful to touch, to nausea, dehydration, blistering
and flaking or peeling of the skin.
As anyone who has experienced
bad sunburn will verify, the amount of time spent causing the sunburn,
is largely disproportionate to the length of time that can be spent
suffering the consequences of its effects. In this respect, and
depending on the severity of burning, -- pain and discomfort can persist
for several days after the event, as the body works to heal and recover
from the unprotected UV exposure.
Unless the symptoms are severe,
(in which instance you may need to consider medical treatment), here
are 5 simple home remedies that will cost you next to nothing, and which
will assist in soothing the sting and pain of sunburn:
1. Cool
baths: Soaking in a cool bath is one of the best ways to draw heat from
the skin and soothe the pain and discomfort of sunburn. (Avoid 'cold' as
this can cause the body to go into shock.) Here are some additional
things to add to your baths for further relief:
a. Add 10 drops of so of essential oil (chamomile or lavender) to the bath. Soak for 15 minutes or until relief is felt.
b.
Adding baking soda (or oatmeal) to a lukewarm bath can also relieve
sunburn pain. For this treatment to work best, try to make sure that all
affected areas are submerged. Bath water can be poured over your body
using your hands or a soft washcloth. Burned facial areas can be gently
dabbed using the cloth, or alternately you can splash water directly
onto your face. After soaking, lightly pat the skin dry with a soft
towel (preferably cotton). If you've taken an oatmeal bath, let the
light coating of oatmeal that clings to your skin remain.
c. Adding vinegar to the bath water will help in taking the sting out of sunburn.
2.
Rubbing alcohol: Because it evaporates so quickly, dabbing on rubbing
alcohol will quickly cool and ease the pain of sunburned skin.
3.
Vinegar: Vinegar is an effective and cooling treatment for sunburn. Soak
towels with it, and apply to the burned areas. Alternately you can fill
a spray bottle and spray it directly on the skin as needed.
4.
Egg Whites: If your burn is painfully hot, separating the white from the
yolk of an egg, and then spreading the white over the affected area
will help to cool the burning instantly. This can be repeated as often
as needed.
5. Potatoes: Potatoes can also be used to relieve the
pain of sunburn. Take 2 potatoes and wash them well. Cut them into tiny
chunks and place in a blender to liquefy. (If the result appears too
dry, add some water). Pat the affected areas with potato juice. Wait
until dry, and then rinse off in a cool shower or bath.
Remember
that as well as causing varying degrees of discomfort and pain, repeated
sun exposure and sunburn also accelerates the aging process and can
increase the risk of cataracts and skin cancer. Prevention therefore
should also always be considered more preferable than treatment!
DISCLAIMER:
These are home remedy tips only, and should not replace your regular
health care provider. If in doubt at any time in relation to your
sunburn, please seek the appropriate health care assistance.
By
Angela Perin
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