Best Ways to Treat Itchy Skin due to Sunburn

This summer, don't let the sun get in the way of your fun!

Summer is here which means trips to the beach and walks along the boardwalk are about to become a part of your routine. The longer you stay outside, the chances are you are directly being exposed to the sun and its harmful UV radiation. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, it will happen sooner or later. The redness will appear, you will feel hot under your skin, or the cluster of freckles all over your arms will begin to merge, leading to one big splash of red.

Sun exposure is probably the leading cause of visible signs of aging ranging from hyperpigmentation to wrinkles and texture. This is because sun exposure damages five layers of your skin, affecting it not only in appearance but also medically. 

The easiest way to take care of your skin this summer is by using sun protection gear. This means more than just your typical sunscreen. Hats, sunglasses, and UV protection clothes should probably make it onto your summer shopping list. 

Even then, sunburns just happen. It could be because water and sweat wipe sunscreen off of your body or you forget to reapply evenly. And when they happen, you want to limit the damage and pain as much as possible so you can resume your regularly planned outdoor routine as soon as you can.

HOW CAN YOU IDENTIFY A SUNBURN?

Sunburns occur when the skin is damaged due to excessive exposure to UV radiation. You can often develop blisters, hyperpigmentation and overall have a very painful experience. If you have spent a lot of time outdoors, you should look out for the following signs to identify a sunburn. They are likely to appear within a few hours after being in the sun. 

• If you are Caucasian, a sunburn will look pink or red on your skin. For darker skin tones, it may not be as obvious to the eye but there are other ways to discern a sunburn. 
• Your skin might feel warm, hot, and sensitive to the touch. 
• You are likely to experience pain and tenderness throughout the area. It might also get itchy or flaky, a couple of days in when the skin is starting to peel off. 
• You might also see small blisters that show up on your skin that often dissipate in a couple of days. 
• Headaches, nausea, fever, and general tiredness are common if the sunburn is severe. 

The body may begin to repair itself within a few days by stripping the affected skin's top layer. Severe sunburn may need many days to cure. Any residual skin color changes normally fade over time. It is important to If your symptoms do not seem to be getting better within 5-7 days of developing sunburn, we advise you to visit your doctor and get professional help. 

NATURAL REMEDIES TO TREAT SUNBURN

Painful, itchy, and dry skin is probably one of the hardest effects of sunburn. They need to be dealt with first so you can continue your everyday life without being distracted by the pain. Fortunately, there are a plethora of natural essential oils and home remedies that you can use to keep the itch at bay! 

Rosehip Seed Oil 

Rosehip seed oil has been used for generations to decrease inflammation and even cure arthritis, and it is not a myth. 

Rosehip oil has been found in studies to improve the skin's barrier repair, function as an anti-inflammatory ingredient, minimize skin aging, and even aid in wound healing. That's great news for everyone who has been exposed to the sun a tad bit longer than recommended.  

After cooling your skin using water or a cold compress, apply the oil directly onto the burnt area and massage it in.  

Empress Naturals Anti-Aging Face Serum contains 100% Pure and USDA Certified, cold-pressed Rosehip Oil. 

Aloe Vera Gel

Without a question, Aloe Vera is among the most effective natural sunburn cures.

Aloe aids in the healing of burnt skin owing to its large moisture content and distinctive variety of antioxidants. They not only rejuvenate injured skin but also assist in transporting hydrating nutrients where they are most needed. 

You can apply pure aloe gel extract directly from the leaf to the burn immediately. If you do not have any access to fresh aloe vera, look for an aloe product that is alcohol-free and has aloe among the first ingredients on the label. This will assist you to prevent further drying out of your skin. 

An incredible facial lotion with Aloe Vera is B3’s Hydrating Facial Moisturizer. 

Black Tea 

Black tea has an abundance of tannins and catechins that can decrease redness, take the sting out of sunburns, and even help regenerate the skin. Green tea has also shown to be a highly successful therapy in scientific research, which is why dietitians advocate drinking green tea daily.

The strong antioxidant content of both teas can help battle the melanoma effects of sun exposure on the skin. These antioxidants are known to fight free radicals, reduce swelling, and can help you prevent some of the aesthetic negative effects of too much sun, such as premature aging.

Simply prepare a stronger batch of the tea, allow it to cool, and then apply it to your skin. You can also combine it with pure aloe as a topical therapy and use the concoction on your burn. Alternatively, you can also look for products that contain the ingredient.

Find Organic Black Tea by Buffalo Gal’s here. 

Coconut Oil

To combat the dryness and inflammation, some experts recommend applying cold-pressed, organic coconut oil. However, you should only use coconut oil after your skin has cooled and the blistering has subsided. Since it is a thick ingredient, applying it at a premature stage will trap heat and increase symptoms. 

When your skin feels ready (usually 3-4 days), use the coconut oil generously as a natural sunburn cure. You can also use products that contain coconut oil and are hydrating and rejuvenating for the skin like Empress Naturals’ Luxe Night Elixir. We suggest that you use the Luxe Night Elixir after you have recovered from the sun burn, during the healing process. 

Oatmeal

An oatmeal bath is the easier natural DIY to help reduce any itchiness caused by a sunburn. Finely crushed oats with bath water act as an anti-inflammatory. To make your own, pulverize a cup of either ‘instant’ or ‘slow cook’ oats in a food processor or blender until it is smooth and fine. Soak in a bath of warm water. 

SUMMING UP

We all know that sun exposure, especially without adequate protection, is extremely damaging to the skin. But that cannot stop you from going out and living this summer to its fullest! 

Don't forget to stock up on your favorite sunscreen, and sun hats and make the most of the beautiful environment around you. And if all the fun leads to a sunburn, you know where to find the best tips and tricks!