If you haven't noticed, Summer is here. Along with the long sunny days spent by the pool, comes those inevitable sunburns. Even if you do use protection, a pesky burn may occur. And man, can it HURT.
When it comes to soothing your scorched skin, natural solutions are best. You want to stay away from additives or chemicals found in creams or lotions - your skin has been through enough! Lucky for you, these natural remedies can be whipped up with ingredients most likely found in your pantry.
OUR 5 FAVORITE NATURAL SUNBURN REMEDIES
1) POTATO PASTE
Potatoes have been known to be a great skin calmer and easer over the years. When it comes to relieving a sunburn, these roots know how to get the job done. You can slice and lay directly on skin, or you can create a potato paste. Use a cheese grater or throw it into a blender and create your paste. Apply directly to the skin and feel the immediate soothing sensation :)
2) CORN STARCH
Due to it's silk-like texture when mixed with some cool water, this super easy remedy can really save you some pain. Not only can this actually make your skin feel better, but it may also assist in healing the reddish appearance of a sunburn. Grab some corn starch and put it in a bowl, begin to add cool water slowly until a paste form with a consistency which is easily spread onto the skin. Let sit and relieve, rinse with water when finished.
How can Extra Virgin Olive Oil benefit your skin? Find out here!
3) APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Really...what can apple cider vinegar not do? Use pure, unfiltered, apple cider vinegar if possible. You can either put some in a spray bottle and mist onto skin, or use cotton balls to apply directly to skin. This seems to work best after a shower. Let vinegar dry directly onto skin.
4) WITCH HAZEL
Witch Hazel has been used for decades to relieve skin ailments, swellings, and burns. This can usually be found in liquid extract form. This is completely safe to apply directly to damaged skin. Use a cotton ball or cloth to gently apply to skin and enjoy the cooling relief.
5) OLIVE OIL
Our go-to, for obvious reasons. Olive Oil contains polyphenol compounds that act as antioxidants to help prevent and repair damage to the skin done by sun exposure. Place a coat of EVOO on the sunburned area and let it sit until it’s no longer oily. Be careful not to venture into the sun after you apply the oil as it doesn't protect your skin, only soothes.