Have you ever experienced the discomfort of sunburn after a day in the sun and wished for a quick and natural remedy? Many people swear by apple cider vinegar as a solution. But does this tangy liquid truly offer relief from sun-kissed skin? Apple cider vinegar, or ACV, has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments. It contains acetic acid, which is believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also believed that these properties can help soothe irritated skin and promote healing from sunburn. So, next time if you want to get rid of sunburn, including apple cider vinegar into your beauty regimen can be helpful. Know why apple cider vinegar is an effective home remedy for sunburn.

What is apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is a fermented liquid obtained from apples. It is made by crushing apples, combining yeast to convert the sugars into alcohol, and then introducing bacteria to convert the alcohol into acetic acid, as found in a study published in the Journal of Functional Foods. This acid provides vinegar its sour flavour and is responsible for many of its health benefits.

Apple cider vinegar offers several benefits. Image courtesy: Freepik

What is sunburn?

Sunburn is caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. This exposure destroys the cells of the skin, leading to redness, discomfort, swelling, and, in rare cases, blistering, as found in a study published in the StatPearls. Sunburns can be mild or severe, and they can increase the risk of skin cancer if they are frequent or severe. It is important to protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

What are the causes of sunburn?

Sunburns are caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. There are two types of UV rays that can cause sunburns, as found in a study published in the StatPearls.

• UVA rays: These rays penetrate deeper into the skin and can contribute to long-term skin damage, including premature ageing and skin cancer.
• UVB rays: These rays are primarily responsible for causing sunburns, as they damage the skin's outer layer.

The intensity of UV radiation varies depending on factors such as the time of day, the season, and the location. It is important to be aware of these factors and take appropriate precautions to protect your skin from the sun.

What are the symptoms of sunburn?

Here are some common symptoms of sunburn, as found in a study published in the MedicinePlus.

• Red, tender skin that feels warm to the touch.
• Blisters that emerge hours or days later.
• Severe responses (also known as sun poisoning), including fever, chills, nausea, or rash.
• Skin peeling on sunburnt areas some days later.

Apple cider vinegar: Is it a good home remedy for sunburn?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV), a fermented liquid derived from apples, has been used as a traditional remedy for centuries. “Its acidic nature, primarily due to acetic acid, offers several benefits when applied to sunburns. Acetic acid helps to lower the pH of the skin, which can reduce inflammation and soothe the pain associated with sunburn. This can provide immediate relief from the stinging and discomfort often experienced after excessive sun exposure. It also acts as a natural antiseptic, helping to prevent infection on damaged skin,” says dermatologist Dr Manoj Sethi. This is crucial as sunburns can leave the skin vulnerable to bacteria and other microorganisms.

By killing harmful bacteria, ACV can contribute to a faster and healthier healing process. Plus, the astringent properties of apple cider vinegar, as found in a study published in the journal Frontiers Nutrition, can help to tighten the skin and reduce peeling, a common symptom of sunburn. This can help to minimise discomfort and improve the overall appearance of the affected area.

Apple Cider Vinegar can help to soothe irritated skin. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Apple cider vinegar: How to use it as a home remedy for sunburn?

Here are some effective ways to use apple cider vinegar (ACV) for sunburn relief, as recommended by the expert.

1. Diluted spray

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of distilled water
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• A clean spray bottle

Method:

• Ensure the spray bottle is clean and free of any residue from previous use.
• Pour the distilled water into the spray bottle, then add the apple cider vinegar.
• Close the bottle and shake it vigorously to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
• Spray the diluted vinegar solution directly onto the affected sunburn. You can apply it as often as needed for relief.

2. Soothing bath

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• Warm water
• A bathtub

Method:

• Run warm water into the bathtub. The water should be comfortably warm, but not too hot.
• Pour the apple cider vinegar into the bathtub.
• Submerge your sunburned body into the vinegar-infused water. Soak for 15-20 minutes, or as long as you find comfortable.
• After soaking, gently rinse your body with clean water to remove any residual vinegar.
• Gently pat yourself dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate the sunburned skin.

3. Cold compress

Ingredients:

• A clean, cotton cloth
• Apple cider vinegar
• Distilled water
• A bowl

Method:

• In a bowl, combine equal parts apple cider vinegar and distilled water.
• Dip the clean cloth into the vinegar solution, ensuring it is thoroughly soaked.
• Place the soaked cloth in the refrigerator for a few minutes to chill it.
• Remove the chilled cloth from the refrigerator and apply it directly to the sunburned area.
• Gently press the compress onto the affected skin and hold it there for 10-15 minutes, or until the cloth becomes warm.
• As the cloth warms up, you can re-soak it in the vinegar solution and apply it again.

4. Aloe vera and apple cider vinegar pack

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

Method:

• Combine ACV with aloe vera gel for soothing and cooling benefits.
• Gently apply the mixture to the affected area.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

5. Coconut oil and apple cider vinegar pack

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

Method:

• Mix ACV with coconut oil to help moisturise and repair the skin.
• Gently apply the mixture to the affected area.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

6. Apple cider vinegar and lavender essential oil pack

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• Few drops of lavender essential oil

Method:

• Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to diluted ACV
• Apply the mixture to the affected area for extra relief.
• Gently massage the area and leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

7. Witch hazel and apple cider vinegar

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of witch hazel

Method:

• Combine ACV with witch hazel for a natural anti-inflammatory solution.
• Gently, apply the mixture to the affected area.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

Sunburn can be extremely uncomfortable and irritating. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

What are the side effects of apple cider vinegar?

While organic apple cider vinegar is an effective home remedy for sunburn, it can lead to some side effects if not used properly.

• May lead to throat burns if consumed in excess.
• Applying the substance directly to the skin without dilution may cause skin irritation, burns and even make symptoms worse because it is highly acidic.
• May also cause allergic reactions in some people,” says the expert.
• Taking a lot of ACV over time can cause stomach problems, tooth enamel erosion, and decrease potassium levels.

The use of ACV, especially on injured or delicate skin should be done with care. Also, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before using apple cider vinegar into your daily routine.

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