Home Remedies for Sunburn Treatment

I think we have all had the painful experience of having sunburn during the summer at some point in our lifetimes. Especially if you complexion is fair, you are even more susceptible to being burned. Don’t worry; below we will discuss some remedies you can use at home to help ease the pain.

1st, 2nd, and 3rd Degree Burns

There are three different types of sunburns which include 1st degree, 2nd degree, and 3rd degree. With 1st degree sunburns, you will develop redness and soreness on the skin. 2nd degree sunburns have the same symptoms as the first but you will also get water bubbles on the skin. Do not break open those bubbles and if any of them are bigger than 2 inches wide, make sure you go to the doctor. If the ooze that comes out is discolored, please make sure you seek advice from a doctor. 3rd degree sunburns include all the symptoms above, but white skin patches will also appear where you were burned. If you do have this condition, go to the doctor immediately.

Fortunately, most people only develop the 1st and 2nd degree sunburns. Those you can treat at home most of the time by using cool compression to the burned area. Do not apply any oily products on the burn as this will do more damage. People used to suggest putting butter on the sunburn; this is a bad idea and can cause more damage.

Taking a shower with cool water may help to alleviate the pain. Make sure it’s not too cold because you can put your body into shock this way. If you want to sit in the tub, add some vinegar to make it more bearable. Cooked oatmeal will do the trick as well.

Natural Remedies

For a more natural remedy, if you live by a stream you can use the plant “Touch Me Nots”. Just blend it up and apply to your skin. This remedy also works for poison ivy. Calamine lotion is also a good idea to stop the itchy feeling.

Believe it or not you can even use potatoes in a blender and then apply it to your skin. After you have taken care of the pain, it is a good idea to use aloe vera to help moisturize the sunburn area. You can buy aloe vera lotion or break a piece of the plant off and rub the gel like material on your skin. Be sure to drink lots of liquids to stay hydrated as well.

Please be aware that these are tips for home care and should never replace your doctor. If you are not sure about anything, just contact your physician and see what they say.