What does Aloe do for a Sunburn (Homeopathic Remedy?)

what_does_aloe_do_for_sunburn

What does Aloe do for sunburn?

Aloe helps soothe pain associated with sunburns because it has a soothing, moisturizing, and cooling effect on the skin. Sunburns cause skin to lose moisture and an ingredient in aloe called mucopolysaccharide helps retain moisture in the skin thus helping with sunburns. 

Studies show that aloe is effective in treating first to second-degree burns, it also reduces inflammation providing relief from sunburns.

To treat sunburns with aloe, extract the gel from the aloe leaf and apply it directly to the affected area a few times a day. If a plant is not available commercially sold aloe gel can be used. 


In the video below, Gerald Davies shows the best way to apply real Aloe Vera for a sunburn or dry skin:

This is our recommended Aloe Vera supplement (Amazon’s Choice):

Fruit Of The Earth Aloe Vera 100% Gel 24 oz (2 pack)

Is there a homeopathic remedy for sunburn?

There is a homeopathic remedy for the treatment of sunburn, which can offer relief from its symptoms such as redness, burning, and itching. Homeopathic remedies can also prevent sunburn from forming a blister, or pus and thus worsen the burn.

Both internal and external homeopathic remedies can be used to treat sunburns. 

External remedies:

  • Calendula
  • Hypericum
  • Urtica urens
  • Arnica
  • Belladonna
  • Sulfur

Internal remedies:

  • Urtica urens
  • Cantharis
  • Causticum

Homeopathic remedies depending on the severity of the burn:

  • Minor sunburns: Calendula, Sol, Urtica urens
  • Moderate sunburns: Hypericum, Belladonna
  • Severe sunburns: Urtica urens, Causticum, Cantharis

Does a Vinegar bath help treat sunburn?

Taking a vinegar bath can help treat sunburn because it soothes the pain associated with sunburn and helps with the healing process. Also, the acetic acid in vinegar provides relief from itching and inflammation. Several medical practitioners suggest using apple cider vinegar to help with sunburn.

To use vinegar it is suggested to add a cup of vinegar to the warm bath water and soak for 30 minutes or until soothed.  

However, since vinegar can cause chemical burns, it should never be used without proper dilution or applied directly to the affected skin. 


Can you use Epsom salts to treat sunburn?

Epsom salt can be used to treat symptoms of sunburn because the anti-inflammatory effect of the salt soothes the skin and provides relief from burns, swelling, and hives.  

It is believed that the magnesium in the Epsom salt helps reduce inflammation, however, scientific studies are required to prove the claim. 

To treat sunburn with Epsom salt, the salt should be added to the lukewarm bathwater. Add about 300 grams of salt to the standard-sized tub to make the bathwater.  Allow the person to soak for 10-12 minutes or longer if desired. 

USFDA recommended using only Epsom salt which contains the USP label after its name. 


Can you apply Black Tea on sunburn?

Black tea can be used on sunburn because the tannins in the tea have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties of tea help reduce irritation, discomfort, redness, and pain caused due to sunburns. Also, the catechins present in black tea help prevent and repair skin damage. 

To treat sunburns with black tea you can either brew the tea or just soak the tea bags in the water for a few minutes. When the water turns darker apply the water or place the tea bags over the affected area. The tannins released during soaking help soothe sunburns. 


Can you use Cocoa butter on sunburn?

Cocoa butter can not be used directly on sunburn because the oil may create a barrier that does not allow heat to escape. The entrapped heat can worsen the inflammation and pain associated with sunburns. 

However, cocoa butter can be used as a part of an ointment or lotion containing other ingredients to help with sunburns. The antioxidant, moisturizing and skin-soothing properties of cocoa butter may help treat sunburn when used in the form of lotion with other ingredients. 

Do not use cocoa butter on open wounds and irritated skin. Also, it may cause allergies in people sensitive to nuts. 


Can you use Shea butter on sunburn?

You can use shea butter on sunburn, it helps moisturize the skin and also expedites healing due to its high content of nutrients and vitamins. The vitamins and nutrients in shea butter nourish the skin further and help avoid peeling. 

Shea butter not only helps with sunburn but also promotes the well-being of the skin, Since shea butter in its natural form is very thick and its application to the affected area would be painful, experts suggest mixing shea butter with coconut oil, vinegar, or essential oils. 

Experts recommend using an unrefined version since the refined version can lose its healing properties during its processing. 


Can you use Tomato on sunburn?

You can use tomato on sunburn because it works as an antioxidant protecting the skin from UV rays. Lycopene, an ingredient of tomato is responsible for its antioxidant property.

A study was conducted on a small group of women to test the effectiveness of tomatoes to prevent sunburns. The study found that after increasing their tomato intake, women experienced a 30% increase in protection against sunburns. 

It is also suggested that prolonged consumption of a diet containing tomatoes can protect the skin from sunburns and from UV rays-induced skin cancer. 

To use tomato for sunburn apply tomato juice or place a slice over the affected area. 


Can you add baking soda in the bath for the treatment of sunburn?

You can add a teaspoon of baking soda in a warm bath for the treatment of sunburn, adding baking soda help soothe the skin and decrease itching associated with sunburns. 

The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of baking soda soothe the pain and itching associated with sunburn. Baking soda also helps regulate the pH of the body. 

When using a baking soda bath allow yourself to soak in the bath for at least 15 minutes. 

After taking a bath it is advised not to scrub or rub your skin, instead dab your body with a dry towel. 


Is Vitamin E Good for a sunburn?

Vitamin E is good for sunburn because it moisturizes and soothes the skin which can help relieve itching and burning caused due to sunburn. Some research also suggests that vitamin E can also prevent or reduce the occurrence of sunburns. 

The anti-oxidant properties of vitamin E prevent free radical damage due to UV rays and soothe sunburns. It also protects the skin from cell mutations leading to cancer due to UV damage. 

A review describes that vitamin E in combination with beta-carotene protects skin from UV damage. 

Another study found that vitamins E and C together decreased the sunburn reaction and protected the skin from UV damage. 


Is Vitamin C good for sunburn?

Vitamin C can be good for sunburn because it promotes wound healing and helps decrease redness and inflammation. Studies show that vitamin C in combination with vitamin E can decrease the sunburn reaction and protect the skin against UV damage.  

The strong antioxidant property of vitamin C also prevents free radical damage caused due to UV exposure. 

As described in a review vitamin C also expedites the replacement of damaged cells with healthy ones and promotes the healing process. 

Vitamin C is available in the form of serum, gel, or cream that can be applied to the skin directly.


Is mustard effective on sunburn?

Mustard may not be effective on sunburn because it can cause irritation to the skin. Also, mustard may cause a skin burn or worsen an existing burn if applied directly. 

A recent case study reports that when a woman used mustard hoping to reduce her cellulite, the mustard itself caused second-degree burns that required treatment by a doctor.  

However, many people have shared their experiences online saying they found it helpful to treat sun and other burns. People suggest that it may be due to the vinegar content in the mustard, which can help get relief from sunburns. 


Are milk baths useful for treating sunburn?

Milk baths may be useful for treating sunburn, because milk calms and soothes the skin. Various ingredients of milk such as proteins, fats, vitamin A and E helps treat sunburn by removing the heat from burns and calming the skin. 

The lactic acid in the milk also provides additional relief from sunburns by acting as an antioxidant and removing dead skin. 

Milk baths can be made by directly adding milk or milk powder to the bath. 

The following types of milk can be used in a milk bath:

  • Cow milk
  • Soy milk
  • Oat milk
  • Buttermilk
  • Coconut milk
  • Goat milk

Can you use Rosewater for sunburn?

Rosewater can be used for sunburn because it contains vitamin E which works as an antioxidant and offers relief from sunburns. Some research also shows that the anti-inflammatory properties of rosewater may help reduce the effects of sunburn. 

The polyphenols and vitamin E in rosewater also help reduce the redness of the skin caused due to sunburn.

Rosewater can be applied directly to the affected area or mixed with other lotions and creams. A rosewater bath can also be made by adding rosewater to the warm bathwater. 

However, check for allergies first, rosewater can cause allergic reactions such as redness, burning, stinging, and irritation. 


Can you use Sour cream for sunburn?

Sour cream may be useful for treating sunburn because the proteins, fats, and the pH of dairy products have a soothing effect on the skin. Further, using a cold sour cream can help get relief from sunburn by reducing swelling.

Sour cream contains lactic acid which may help remove dead skin and promote new cell generation. It also contains enzymes that may help heal the skin. It is recommended not to leave sour cream on the skin for a longer period of time.

However, medical experts advise against using sour cream to treat sunburn. Experts recommend using an effective therapy instead.


Can you use Petroleum jelly for sunburn treatment?

Petroleum jelly is not useful for the treatment of sunburn because it may actually worsen the symptoms and prevent healing. 

Using petroleum jelly on the affected area creates a barrier between the skin and air, it also blocks the pores in the skin causing the skin to retain heat and sweat. Both of which can lead to itching, infection, and discomfort. Also, petroleum jelly, if not sterile can cause further complications. 

However, dermatologists suggest that petroleum jelly can be used for sunburns when it reaches the peeling stage but not at the early stage. 


Is Magnesium milk useful for sunburn? 

Magnesium milk also known as milk of magnesia is useful for sunburn because it relieves the pain associated with sunburn and soothes the skin. The application of magnesium milk to sunburns may also prevent the formation of blisters. 

Magnesium milk has anti-inflammatory properties which may be useful for mild to moderate sunburns. 

However, there is no evidence to support the use of magnesium milk for the treatment of sunburn. 

To use magnesium milk for sunburn apply it with a cotton ball over the affected area and allow it to dry. Wash off with water after 30-60 minutes. Prolonged use of magnesium milk can cause excessive skin dryness and may affect the skin. 


Can you use Greek yogurt on sunburn?

Greek yogurt can be used on sunburn because it soothes the skin and moisturizes it. Greek yogurt can also reduce redness and provide relief from sunburn. 

The lactic acid in the yogurt has anti-inflammatory properties and the proteins, fat, and vitamins in yogurt can help with sunburns. 

Greek yogurt provides better relief than regular yogurt because it is much thicker and has a higher concentration of lactic acid. It also contains probiotics which further help reduce redness and skin sensitivity. 

However, use the plain, unflavored, and unsweetened variety of yogurt, because the flavors and added ingredients in yogurt may cause allergic reactions. 


Is Hyaluronic acid effective on sunburn?

Hyaluronic acid may be effective on sunburn because it speeds up healing, moisturizes the skin, and prevents irritation from sunburns. 

Hyaluronic acid is used as an ingredient in many skincare products, it hydrates the skin, promotes cell renewal, and helps moisturize the oily and acne-prone skin. 

The hyaluronic acid keeps the skin well hydrated and moisturized and prevents it from appearing dry and peeling. 

Hyaluronic acid is not directly applied to the affected skin, rather it is available in the form of serum or sprays. Both of the forms can be applied directly to the affected area to get relief from sunburn. 


Is Hemp lotion good for sunburn?

Hemp lotion can be good for sunburn because the anti-inflammatory properties of help lotion can help decrease redness and pain. Also, omega 3 fatty acids in hemp lotion can decrease redness and prevent skin damage.

Another ingredient of hemp lotion known as gamma-linolenic acid can prevent cancer cell growth. It can also increase the supply of oxygen and improve blood circulation under the skin promoting the healing process. 

The various vitamins present in the hemp lotion can further help healthy skin growth, prevent damage and keep the skin moisturized. 

It is recommended to use a lotion without any fragrance to avoid skin irritation. 


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Sources

This article makes use of information from the U.S. National Library of Medicine under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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What does Aloe do for a Sunburn (Homeopathic Remedy?)
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