Whether you planned on getting a natural tan or simply forgot to use sunscreen, sunburn is very unpleasant. Drinking plenty of water and taking ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nurofen etc.) should be the first step in treating it, but there are many life hacks that can make thinks easier.
Instead of using an over the counter sunburn relief, try these excellent and natural solutions. With the right DYI sunburn relief hacks, you’ll be able to fight all the symptoms of this issue, and they can even help you sleep better when you’re experiencing pain.
Spray Apple Cider Vinegar
You can add it to your bathwater or dilute it with water and apply it directly to your skin with a soft washcloth. Apple cider vinegar is anti-inflammatory and it’s also a natural antiseptic that can soothe your skin. For instant relief on the go, simply fill a spray bottle with apple cider vinegar and the same quantity of water and spray it on the sunburned areas.
Try Black Tea
Antioxidants can help fight the free radical damage on your skin, so any tea with a high content is good for sunburn, but black tea has the strongest effect, because it’s also rich in tannic acid. Once you brew and cool it off, there are three sunburn relief hacks you can use. You can apply the tea bags directly on your skin, you can use a washcloth to apply it (but remember that it will permanently stain fabrics), or you can add it to your bathwater.
Use Cool Aloe Vera Gel
Before you apply aloe vera gel on your sunburned skin, remember to chill it for an even better effect. You can mix it with water and freeze it in ice cubes. Once it’s frozen, you can apply the ice cubes on your skin for a soothing and cooling effect.
Take an Oatmeal Bath
Whether you use old pantyhose or cheesecloth, remember to grind the oats in a blender or food processor before you securely place them under the running water as you draw your bath. This is one of the best sunburn relief hacks, since oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties and it can also reduce any itching from the sunburn.
Use a Moisturizer with Milk
Yogurt and milk are great for your skin, especially if you’re worrying that your skin won’t stay hydrated and start peeling. You should switch to a milk based moisturizer or lotion right away. You can also apply them directly to your skin. Use a soft washcloth or towel for cold milk, or spread natural, unflavored and unsweetened yogurt with live cultures directly on your skin, leaving it on for 10-15 minutes.
Try Coconut Oil
Use another excellent moisturizer, coconut oil can be used as one of the best sunburn relief hacks. You don’t have to heat it to get it to its liquid state. Simply rub the solid coconut oil on the sunburned area for quick relief. If you hate its smell, lavender oil has a similar effect, and it also relaxes you with a bit of aromatherapy.
Use Baking Soda
Restoring your skin’s pH is the main reason why you should add baking soda into your bathwater, before you take a 10-15 minute soak. You can also use it topically. Mix 4 tablespoons of it in a cup of water, then use gauze pads to apply it to your skin. Aspirin has a similar effect, so after you crush it, mix it with water and apply it to inflamed and painful sunburned areas, or add a few crushed tablets to your bath.
Make an Epsom Salt Spray
An Epsom salt bath can also be soothing, but one of the best sunburn relief hacks is using it in a spray bottle. Simply mix it with water, and shake well before spraying your skin. You can also use the mixture on your hair, as a texturizing spray.
Don’t Forget the Baby Wipes
They’re gentle on your skin and can also provide instant relief. Simply lay the baby wipes on top of the burned areas on your skin and leave them on for a few minutes until you feel a little better.
Soften Your Sheets with Corn Starch
The last thing you want to do after a painful day is crawl into bed and feel even worse. Sprinkling cornstarch on your sheets, when they don’t feel soft enough, is one of the best sunburn relief hacks. It will minimize friction and help you get comfortable and rest.
