What is Sunburn?
Sunburn is damage to the skin caused by overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunburn can cause pain, redness, inflammation, and blisters. In severe cases, sunburn can lead to more serious health problems like heat stroke or dehydration.
While there is no surefire way to prevent sunburn, there are some things you can do to lower your risk. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, seek shade during the midday hours when the sun’s rays are strongest, and wear protective clothing like hats and long-sleeved shirts.
If you do get sunburned, there are some essential oils that can help soothe the pain and inflammation.
1. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an ideal treatment for sunburn. It can also help to speed up the healing process.
To use, dilute lavender oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil and apply it to the affected area. [1]
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2. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil can also help to relieve pain and inflammation associated with sunburn. In addition, peppermint has a cooling effect that can provide some relief from the burning sensation.
To use, add a few drops of peppermint oil to a cool bath or make a compress by soaking a cloth in peppermint tea.
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3. Chamomile Oil
Like lavender and peppermint, chamomile oil has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Chamomile can also help to soothe the skin and promote healing.
To use, add a few drops of chamomile oil to a cool bath or make a compress by soaking a cloth in chamomile tea.
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4. Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays. It can also help to reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process.
To use, apply vitamin E oil directly to the affected area. You can also take vitamin E supplements orally.
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5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to treat sunburn. It can also help to prevent infection and speed up the healing process.
To use, dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or olive oil and apply it to the affected area. [5]
6. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an ideal treatment for sunburn. It can also help to ease the pain and promote healing.
To use, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a cool bath or make a compress by soaking a cloth in eucalyptus tea.
7. Vitamin C Essential Oil
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays. It can also help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
To use, apply vitamin C oil directly to the affected area. You can also take vitamin C supplements orally.
8. Marigold Essential Oil
Marigold oil has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an ideal treatment for sunburn. It can also help to soothe the skin and promote healing.
To use, dilute marigold oil with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil and apply it to the affected area.
9. Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium oil has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an ideal treatment for sunburn. It can also help to soothe the skin and promote healing.
To use, dilute geranium oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil and apply it to the affected area. [9]
How to Avoid Sunburn?
There is no surefire way to prevent sunburn, but there are some things you can do to lower your risk.
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
- Seek shade during the midday hours when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Wear protective clothing like hats and long-sleeved shirts.
When to Visit a Doctor?
Most sunburns can be treated at home, but you should see a doctor if you have severe burns or if you develop any of the following symptoms:
- Blisters
- Swelling
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dehydration
If you develop any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Caution: Essential oils are potent and should be used with caution. Do not apply them directly to the skin. Always dilute them with a carrier oil like jojoba or olive oil before use. If you have sensitive skin, make sure to test the oil on a small area first. If you experience any irritation, discontinue use immediately. Pregnant women and children should avoid using essential oils unless under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
If you do get sunburned, use these essential oils that can help soothe the pain and inflammation. But keep in mind that no every essential oily may suit your skin, so make sure to test it on a small area first. And most importantly, don’t forget to stay hydrated and avoid spending too much time in the sun in order to prevent future sunburns.
Thank you for reading!
Sources:
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/lavender
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92761/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5435909/
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