We all love the sun but it does need some respect.
Editor Jane Garton recommends some herbal remedies to use if you are suffering with sunburn.
Whether staying at home or going abroad this summer too much sun can be dangerous, causing pain in the short term and increasing your risk of skin cancer in the long term. The message is simple. Stay in the shade when the sun is at its hottest between the hours of 11am and 3pm and if you do go out make sure you cover up with a hat and a long sleeved T-shirt and wear sunglasses.
Exposed skin also needs to be protected with a sunscreen – check this has ‘UVA’ in a circle logo, at least four-star UVA protection as well as a minimum of SPF15 (Sun Protection Factor) to protect against UVB rays.
But what if you overdo it by mistake and end up on the pink side? Firstly move out of the sun as fast as you can, but the following herbal remedies may help to soothe and cool your sunburn.
ALOE VERA
Aloe vera has been used for thousands of years to treat burns. Its juices soothe sore areas, while speeding up the healing process by stimulating the growth of new tissue.
If using a plant, slice through one of the leaves and squeeze the gel directly onto the affected area; otherwise go for a bottled gel or juice preparation containing 96 to 100 per cent pure aloe. Aloe vera can be used on broken or unbroken skin and reapplied as necessary several times a day.
CALENDULA
These flowers are a herbal favourite when it comes to stimulating skin healing. Calendula creams and lotions also make good after-sun lotions, adding moisture to sun-kissed areas. In addition calendula has antiseptic properties, so can help to reduce the risk of infection if skin is broken.
LAVENDER
This essential oil is a well-known remedy for burns. Dilute several drops of lavender oil in a carrier oil or mix with some aloe gel before applying.
CAMOMILE
Make a tea with fresh or dried camomile or buy some teabags and get brewing. Add ice cubes to cool it down and apply to any red or inflamed areas after your shower or bath.
Watchpoints
- If you feel feverish or have extensive blistering with sunburn, see your GP.
- If a burn starts to spread, it could be infected, so seek help from a healthcare professional.
- Skin recovering from sunburn is vulnerable and can easily burn again so don’t expose to the sun until completely healed.
