Neglecting to apply sunscreen before going outdoors can be detrimental to your skin. Therefore, generously applying sunscreen from head to toe is an excellent method for safeguarding your skin. Nonetheless, there may be instances when you forget to apply it or to cover areas such as your arms, neck, and face. Within a few hours, you might notice that your skin feels warm to the touch and may become red and painful. These symptoms are indicative of sunburn, which occurs after prolonged exposure to the sun. If you prefer home remedies, consider using aloe vera for treating sunburn, as it may help alleviate inflammation and provide relief.

What is sunburn?

Sunburn is an inflammatory response of the skin resulting from excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from the sun. According to Dr. Shweta Mishra, a cosmetic and aesthetic surgeon, "UV radiation can harm your skin's DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), leading to inflammation and irritation."

Sunburn can cause a lot of discomfort. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

While mild sunburn can cause redness, pain, and discomfort, more severe cases may result in blistering and long-lasting skin damage. The expert warns that it can also lead to long-term effects such as premature skin aging, wrinkles, and an elevated risk of skin cancer due to cumulative damage to skin cells over time. Research published in StatPearls in 2023 indicates that over a third of the population experiences sunburn each year.

"UV radiation is particularly intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., during which time the sun's rays are more direct and potent, increasing the likelihood of burning exposed skin," the expert explains.

Aloe vera for sunburn: Know how it helps

Utilizing aloe vera for the treatment of sunburn may prove effective. Research published in Burns: Journal Of The International Society For Burn Injuries in 2007 suggests that it is beneficial for healing mild to moderate sunburn. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a moisturizer containing aloe vera to soothe sunburned skin. It is advisable to apply it while your skin is still damp from bathing and whenever you experience pain or discomfort.

Here’s how it can be beneficial:

• Rich in nutrients: "Utilizing aloe vera for treating sunburn is advisable due to its rich nutrient profile, which includes vitamins A, C, and E. Additionally, it contains antioxidants and amino acids that aid in repairing damaged skin and alleviating inflammation," explains Dr. Mishra. The gel extracted from the green aloe vera plant offers a cooling sensation that can swiftly relieve the burning feeling associated with sunburn.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: "Aloe vera possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can diminish redness, swelling, and discomfort by soothing the skin," the expert notes.
• Moisturizes the skin: It aids in rehydrating the skin by retaining moisture, which is crucial for recovery since sunburn leads to dehydration of skin cells. "Aloe vera facilitates healing at the cellular level, promoting a quicker recovery," states the expert.

How to use aloe vera for sunburn treatment?

Interested in using aloe vera for sunburn relief? It can be applied in various forms and combinations tailored to your skin type.

1. For dry skin

"The gel serves as an excellent hydrating agent, and when paired with moisturizing oils like coconut oil or olive oil, it can enhance hydration," advises the expert. Combine fresh aloe vera gel with a few drops of coconut oil and apply it generously to the affected areas. "This can be repeated 2-3 times daily to ensure your skin receives adequate moisture and relief from the dryness caused by the burn," Dr. Mishra recommends.

2. For oily skin

For those with oily skin, it is advisable to avoid heavy oils; therefore, use pure aloe vera for sunburn treatment without any added oils. "You may mix the gel with a few drops of tea tree oil, as its antimicrobial properties can help minimize the risk of infection in the damaged skin," the expert suggests.

3. For sensitive skin

The gel is typically mild on delicate skin; however, it is crucial to verify that it is devoid of fragrances or additional chemicals. For treating sunburn, utilize pure aloe vera and combine it with chamomile tea. According to experts, "It possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can further help to calm and soothe your skin."

Know how to use aloe vera to treat sunburn. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

What are the side effects of using aloe vera for sunburn treatment?

While aloe vera is generally safe for most individuals, there may be side effects associated with its use for sunburn treatment:

• Some individuals might experience irritation or a rash, particularly if the gel includes added fragrances or chemicals.
• If you have an allergy to aloe vera, you may notice symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, or even hives in the affected area.
• In rare instances, the gel could lead to contact dermatitis, resulting in inflammation, redness, and blisters on the skin.

Should you encounter any of these side effects, discontinue the use of aloe vera for sunburn treatment and seek medical advice. Therefore, conducting a patch test is highly recommended, especially if you are using aloe vera for sunburn treatment for the first time.

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