Summer brings with it many traditions to look forward to – pool parties, barbecues, Fourth of July – along with some traditions we could do without. Sunburn is one of those traditions, and now with summer winding to a close, it’s likely you or somebody in your family is dealing with the results of too many hours in the sun.
If you forgot the SPF during a day of gardening (or Johnny just got back from summer camp after forgetting his for a week), you know what a pain sunburn can be. Though it’s always better to prevent it, there are things you can do to lessen the damage to your skin and speed healing. Here are a few home remedies to help soothe sunburn and heal your skin naturally:
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera extract can be found in many sunburn gels, but the pure sap works best. You can buy pure Aloe Vera gel at the drugstore, or split an aloe leaf in half and apply the sap directly to the skin to hydrate, cool, and relieve burning.
Milk and Honey
Honey has been used for thousands of years as a cure for burns, and scientific studies suggest it to be more effective than over-the-counter medications in its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to a sunburn, honey greatly speeds healing. Mixing it with cool milk can help as well, as milk reduces heat on the skin and provides a protective layer of protein.
Lavender Essential Oil
Another great treatment for sunburn is Lavender oil. There is much more to Lavender than just its calming and refreshing scent. Lavender oil is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, contains cooling properties, and promotes new skin growth. It’s gentle enough to be applied directly to the skin, or can be put into bath water for a healing soak.
For more information on holistic healing, treating sunburn or your family’s medical needs, visit us at EssenceMediSpa.com or come to our office in Highland.
