With the onset of summer, people love to step out of their homes. Beaches, icecreams, and sunbathe to get much needed Vitamin D. It is the time of the year for wanderlust and outdoor games. But it also comes with some foes like sunburn. Today we will take a look at how to stay away from sunburn and essential oils for sunburn.

What is a sunburn?

Sunburn is the skin irritation caused due to overexposure to sun and UV rays. UV rays are capable of penetrating our skin and damaging it in many ways(1). It can alter DNA and prematurely age your skin. It can even lead to a serious condition like skin cancer or melanoma(2). So, it is very important to take proper care of your skin while you step out to sunbathe.

Essential oils are well known for their intoxicating fragrance. They are used in a variety of soap preparations to enhance the texture and quality. Essential oils have soothing and healing properties due to which they have been used in a number of traditional and herbal medicines. So let us see, how we can use these oils in treating sunburn.

Essential Oils for Sunburn

1. Chamomile Oil

Chamomile oil is well known for its soothing and calming properties. It also moisturizes the skin, treats blemishes and helps to maintain the youth. Chamomile oil has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties.

These properties are very helpful in treating sunburns. Along with these medicinal properties, it is also treated as a sedative. Chamomile oil also relieves pain, stress, anxiety, and anger. It is a natural anti-depressant.

All these qualities of Chamomile oil make it best not only to treat sunburn but for overall health.

2. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil has antibacterial properties due to which people use it in the first-aid kit. It has an intoxicating aroma which helps to calm down and relax.

Lavender oil is best to relieve stress and improve the quality of sleep. All these factors are very essential in wound healing and improving skin texture. It treats dark spots, acne, blemishes, sunburn which leaves a glowing skin.

3. Menthol Oil

Menthol oil has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial effects. When applied to the affected area, it prevents infection and soothes the skin. The coolness of menthol oil helps to calm down the burning sensation.

It is a fresh aromatic therapeutic oil which is best for sunburns. Eucalyptus and peppermint oils are menthol based oils which can be used for sunburns. This is one of the best essential oils for sunburn.

4. Tea Tree Oil

Chemicals in tea tree oil help to kill fungus and bacterias. It also helps to cure allergic skin reactions. Tea tree oil is beneficial in curing acne, oily skin, itching, and sunburns. It has a soothing aroma which calms down the nerves. It helps to fight depression.

5. Geranium Oil

The geranium essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy(3). It is extracted from flowers and leaves of Pelargonium graveolens plant. Geranium oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It provides a soothing effect to the body and reduces stress and anxiety.

Here is an informative video from EssentialOils Gangsta

How to Use Essential Oils for Sunburn

Essential oils are very concentrated. Direct application of it can cause more irritation and discomfort. So, you need to dilute these oils before application.

You can mix essential oils with Coconut oil, almond oil, or in water.

Precautions

1. Keep it out of children’s reach.
2. Do not use in case of severe burns. Consult your doctor first.
3. In case of sensitivity to these oils, consult your doctor and stop using it immediately.

Home Remedies using Essential Oils

1. Milk

Milk is an excellent moisturizer. It is full of good fats, protein and fat-soluble vitamins A, E, D, and K. All these nutrients help in nourishing the skin. In the case of sunburns, mix a drop of any essential oil of your choice with milk. Soak a clean cloth, or cotton in it and apply on the affected area. For best results, use chilled milk.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is a magic ingredient for skin, hair, weight loss and what not. It has anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties which help in treating sunburns. Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of plain water. Add 2-3 drops of lavender essential oil to it. And use it as a toner on sunburns.

3. Yogurt

Yogurt is a storehouse of nutrients. It has a cooling effect which is very helpful in treating sunburns. Mix yogurt with 1 or 2 drops of any essential oil. Apply the paste directly on the affected areas. It cures the burning sensation and irritation caused by sunburn.

4. Rosewater

Rosewater is a simple product which is widely used in a number of home remedies for glowing skin. For treating sunburns, mix rosewater with 1 or 2 drops of essential oil and store it in a spray bottle. Spray it on the affected areas to get a soothing sensation. You can also use it in other cosmetic purposes like as a toner.

5. Ice cubes

Ice cubes are one of the best and fastest home remedies for sunburns. Mix some drops of essential oils in water and pour it on the ice tray. Let it sit for a few hours and then apply directly to the sunburnt areas.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a magical product for skin. It is used in a variety of home remedies to treat acne, blemishes, dark spots etc due to its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. For sunburns, peel a fresh aloe vera and extract its pulp. Make a smooth paste and add a few drops of essential oils to it. Apply it on the affected area.

Tips to Beat Sunburn

As it is said, precaution is better than cure, better avoid getting burnt in the sun instead of treating sunburns. So let’s have a look at how you can protect your skin from sunburns.

1. Moisturize your skin before stepping out in summer days.
2. Apply a decent amount of sunscreen lotion with SPF greater than 15 after moisturizing the skin.
3. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
4. Eat fresh fruits to get glowing skin.
5. Do not overexpose your skin in the sun. Cover yourself well before stepping out.
6. Take cold water baths.

I hope all the tips and home remedies help you in summer to keep your skin radiant and glowing.