Some home remedies do actually work
While numerous commercial products claim to ease the symptoms of sunburn, a variety of natural solutions, like common green tea, might be readily available in your own kitchen. Consultant dermatologist Dr Catherine Borysiewicz explained: “If you’re unable to get to the chemist, a few home remedies can offer some relief.
“A cool compress, refrigerated aloe vera gel, or cool green tea bags can provide additional cooling and help calm the skin. Mineral water sprays can also be helpful.” However, she also highlighted that not all homemade remedies are worth their weight.
Dr Borysiewicz cautioned: “Old wives’ tales like applying butter, vinegar, or toothpaste to sunburn are best avoided. These can trap heat, further irritate the skin, or cause chemical burns.”
Further to the list of things to steer clear of when dealing with sunburn are specific ingredients commonly found in skincare. According to Dr Borysiewicz: “Be extra careful to avoid any active ingredients you’re putting on your sun-damaged skin.
“Active ingredients can lead to increased sensitivity, dryness, peeling, and can aggravate post-inflammatory pigmentation – leading to discolouration. Common ingredients to watch for include acids (such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids), retinol (vitamin A derivatives), and antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E. Wait until the skin has fully recovered before applying them.”
The doctor stressed that sunburn recovery is not a one-time fix but an ongoing process that requires different approaches as your skin heals. In the immediate aftermath of sunburn, the focus should be on moisturisers and staying hydrated.
As the skin begins to peel, it’s crucial to prevent potential infections by keeping the susceptible areas clean and dry. For proper care, the doctor recommends: “Wash daily and apply a gentle antiseptic such as a water-based hypochlorous spray. If the skin blisters or symptoms are severe, seek medical advice.”
Sunburn is an inflammatory response due to overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, which can occur even during overcast weather. Despite some people accepting sunburn as a typical summer nuisance, its after-effects can have long-term health implications including an increased risk of skin cancer, as well as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
The NHS recommends that anyone who has been exposed to the sun should urgently contact 111 or arrange a GP appointment if they begin to experience the following symptoms:.
- Blistered and swollen skin
- High temperature and feeling hot and shivery
- Feeling extremely tired, dizzy and nauseous
- Headaches or muscle cramps