Caring for a Sunburn

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Caring for a Sunburn

Getting a blistering sunburn significantly increases our risk of

developing a serious type of skin cancer called malignant melanoma.

Skin cancer usually occurs from a sunburn received during childhood.

As the Earth's ozone layer thins, we are even more vulnerable to

ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause skin cancer.

 

Healing Sunburn Treatments

 

Aloe Vera Gel

For sunburn there is nothing better than aloe vera gel; it is

antibacterial and deeply healing for burns in part because of

aloectin B, which stimulates the immune system. Aloe vera gel is

used in hospitals for burn victims. Aloe Vera comes from the aloe

vera plant, and the gel may be squeezed from its leaves, or you can

buy pure aloe vera gel as a product in most health food stores.

 

Vitamin E Cream

One of the antioxidants, vitamin E creams, ointments and oils, can

help heal sunburn damage and shorten its effects.

 

Increase Your Vitamin C

Another antioxidant, increasing your vitamin C intake while

sunburned will help you heal.

 

Black Tea Sunburn Soother

The tannins in cool black tea will help sooth a sunburn.

 

Baking Soda Bath

Have a cool bath to which 1/2 a cup of baking soda has been added.

 

Calendula Creams

Calendula is one of the most healing plants. The flowers are

emollient, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and

antiviral. They are immune system stimulants and rich in

carotenoids. Look in your health food store for calendula creams and

ointments.

 

Avoid Petroleum jelly, as it will hold in the heat.

 

Note: To prevent sunburns to begin with, wear sunscreens (see " Care2

Ask Annie " #4 for recommendations).