3 Sunburn Remedies You Can Make in the Kitchen
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So you laid out on the beach all day to try and bring some life back into those translucently pale legs, but only managed to go from white to 50 shades of lobster — we feel your pain. While prevention is the ultimate way to protect your skin, sometimes burns happen. If you want an all-natural remedy to soothe your sunburned skin, you probably already have everything you need in your kitchen. We chatted with Chrissy Dress, medical esthetician at Kaaya Med Spa, to find out three sunburn remedies that have been passed down through her family for generations.
Images via Caroline Thaw and Dreams Time.
Cooling Masque: In the blender, combine one cucumber and a few drops (or a leaf) of aloe. Blend until smooth, but not runny. Apply masque to face for 15 to 20 minutes.
Why it works: The antioxidants in cucumber help to alleviate the pain of a burn. Plus the addition of aloe vera is cooling, acting as a natural anti-inflammatory.
Images via Free Pik, Scout Mob and Free Coloring Pages.
ACV Soak: Drench a washcloth in apple cider vinegar, and apply to affected area for about 15 minutes, or until the towel is just barely damp. You’ll feel it absorbing the heat right out of your skin.
Why it works: Sure, it’s a stinky remedy, but it ’s worth it. Apple cider vinegar “acts as an astringent which releases certain tannins,” calming your tender skin, says Dress. This treatment can be applied as many times as needed — just moisten the towel and soak until the pain subsides. (Insider tip: Stick the ACV in the fridge before soaking your washcloth for an even stronger cooling sensation.)
Images via Real Simple and Kanako Kuno.
Yogurt Masque: This one’s super simple — just take a plain greek yogurt and slather directly on the skin. Sit for 20 minutes and soak in some much-needed relief from the burn.
Why it works: “The enzymes deactivates the burn sensation, acting as a natural pain reliever,” says Dress. This treatment is great for minor to medium burns and will leave the skin feeling supple and soothed.
All you need for instant, all-natural sunburn remedies is right in your fridge — it’s that simple! But remember, the best way to protect your skin, whether you’re chilling on the beach or zipping around the city between meetings, is to wear SPF every single day. Your non-sunburned, non-wrinkly skin will thank you!
