6 Effective Home Remedies for Sunburn

Basking in the sun feels relaxing and provides you with much-needed vitamin D, but it causes too much skin absorption. Prolonged exposure to sunlight during this season can cause sunburn, which leads to discomfort, burning and peeling. Thankfully, many common household items can be used to reduce the symptoms of UV damage and soothe and repair your skin. Here are some home remedies that will help you take care of your skin after sun exposure.

What is sunburn peeling?

Sunburn skin peeling is caused by overexposure to the sun, especially when your skin is wet. So once the skin is burned, it can cause blisters, redness, rashes and even peeling of the skin.

“Initially you will also experience redness, pain and itching, and then gradually, as it subsides or dries up and becomes larger for a day or two, your skin will begin to burn and peel. There is no special term for sunburn. If you get sunburned, it will peel,” says dermatologist Dr. Seema Oberoi Lal.

Also Read: How to choose the right sunscreen for sensitive skin

6 Home Remedies for Sunburn

Here are some simple and effective home remedies to treat sunburn peeling.

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1. Apply aloe vera gel

According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, applying aloe vera gel can reduce inflammation. Together, these properties speed up the healing process and reduce the time it takes for the skin to peel. Apply the gel directly from aloe vera leaves to your skin or use an OTC (over-the-counter) natural aloe vera gel product. Any store-bought aloe vera gel with chemical preservatives should be avoided, as it can increase irritation.

2. Use a cold compress

Cold compresses or cold showers have not been scientifically proven to stop dandruff. However, it may help if your skin is red and feels uncomfortable.

Ice cubes can be wrapped in a washcloth or placed in a large fabric bag to create a homemade cold compress. Ice should not be applied directly to sunburned skin, as extreme cold can cause peeling of the skin and slow down the healing process.

3. Oatmeal bath

Colloidal oatmeal has anti-inflammatory effects, as noted in a study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. As a result, it reduces irritation and dryness caused by sunburn. Additionally, it improves the skin’s ability to retain moisture, which promotes healing.

There is a difference between breakfast oatmeal and colloidal oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal can be made using whole oats. Finely grind some raw whole oats in a food processor or blender. Transfer two to three cups of this powder to a cold or warm bath and let it soak for ten to fifteen minutes.

4. Stay hydrated

It is important to treat sunburn from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water can keep the skin healthy. Sunburned skin needs more water to hydrate.

5. Wear loose fitting clothes

Tight clothes and sunburn are an uncomfortable combo. Wear loose, comfortable clothing instead to allow your skin to breathe and reduce friction and additional problems.

6. Moisturize the skin

Hydrate well and use a mild cleanser to clean the area. If your skin is acne prone you can apply coconut oil. You can use aloe vera gel if your skin is acne prone and very oily or a light moisturizer.

How long does it take for your skin to peel after a sunburn?

It can take anywhere from 3-4 days to 10 days, a week or 10 days. The sooner you address it, the better and faster it will improve.

5 ways to prevent sunburn

Here are some effective ways to help you prevent sunburn peeling.

1. Cover yourself under the sun

Protecting yourself from the sun is essential if you are outdoors for long periods of time, especially if you go hiking or if you are at the beach. So cover yourself using a hat or scarf.

2. Use a water-resistant sunscreen

Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 40 or higher every two hours. Reapply sunscreen within an hour if you’ve been in the pool. So be careful how much sunscreen you use if you’re outdoors. People with lighter skin should be more careful about how much sunscreen they use, but that doesn’t mean people with darker skin should avoid it.

Health Shots recommends: 5 Best Sunscreens with SPF 50 or Higher for Oily Skin

3. Keep yourself hydrated

Sip plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. You can also include some juices and other drinks to prevent dehydration.

Skin peeling is a normal part of the healing process after a sunburn. These simple and easy home remedies help reduce inflammation, irritation and redness, speed up healing and reduce the severity of the problem.