5 Ways to Treat Sunburn

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Sunburn is the last thing you want on your skin. The ultraviolet rays of the sun sometimes prove harsh on your skin with itching, swelling and reddening of the skin leading to sunburn. At times, sunburn can even cause long lasting marks or damage to the skin. So, check out 5 ways to treat sunburn.

1. Cold compress

A cold feeling is what you very much crave for when you get sunburns. So, use cold water or ice cubes, and moisten a cloth with it and apply on the burn. Follow this every few minutes for better relief. You can also use witch hazel for the purpose. Moisten a cloth with witch hazel and apply. This powerful astringent has great anti-inflammatory properties and can heal burns faster.

2. Oatmeal

Use cheesecloth or gauze and wrap dry oatmeal on the sore area. Allow to run cool water through it. Remove the oatmeal and soak compresses in water. Repeat it 5 to 6 times a day. On adding water, the polysaccharides in oatmeal break down into a gelatinous substance and it protects your skin from drying. The protein in oatmeal helps in quick healing of the burns.

3. Baking soda

A baking soda bath gives quick relief from sunburn woes. Add a few tablespoons of baking soda to your bath water and soak in it for 10-20 minutes. Do not increase the soaking time as it may lead to drying of skin. After bath, air dry and do not wipe off the baking soda from your skin. This is good for healing irritated or inflamed skin.