Painful, irritating, and potentially dangerous, sunburn is a very common occurrence when we’re exposed to too much sun. Aloe vera has long been one of the most widely used solutions, a natural remedy with cooling and anti-inflammatory properties that can make it ideal. Here, we’ll take a closer look at how it works, how to use it, and how often you should apply aloe vera to sunburns for the best results.
Unveiling the Benefits of Aloe Vera for Sunburn
A natural remedy that has been used to treat skin issues for centuries, aloe vera is particularly effective for treating sunburn. Extracted from the aloe vera plant, this substance is full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, that can repair and nourish sunburned skin. Here are a few of the ways it does just that:
- Soothing: Aloe vera provides immediate relief from the stinging and burning sensation caused by sunburn.
- Anti-inflammatory: The properties help reduce redness and swelling.
- Hydrating: Aloe vera gel is highly moisturizing, which helps prevent peeling and dryness often associated with sunburn.
- Healing: Aloe vera encourages the regeneration of skin cells, speeding up the healing process.
How Aloe Vera Works its Magic on Sunburn
Natural as the remedy may be, aloe vera’s magic is highly understood by science. Its vitamins (A, C, E, and B12), minerals (like calcium, magnesium, and zinc), amino acids, and enzymes nourish, hydrate, and provide a protective barrier on the skin to help it retain moisture and prevent damage.
Aloe vera is also full of healing agents, and polysaccharides, which improve collagen production, repairing the skin and maintaining its elasticity. Glycoproteins directly reduce pain and inflammation by blocking the production of enzymes that cause these responses. Meanwhile, antioxidants protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by sun exposure.
By calming inflammation, replenishing lost moisture, and supporting the skin’s natural healing processes, aloe vera is highly effective in reducing the severity of sunburn and preventing long-term damage.
What Exactly Does Aloe Vera Do for Sunburns?
If the above info sounds a bit too scientific for you, here’s a more direct explanation of why aloe vera works so well for sunburn:
- Cooling Effect: The gel’s high water content gives it a cooling effect, which provides instant relief from the heat and discomfort of sunburn.
- Moisturization: Helps lock in moisture, preventing further dehydration and minimizing peeling.
- Reduced Swelling and Redness: Its anti-inflammatory compounds reduce the swelling, redness, and irritation that often accompany sunburn.
- Faster Healing: Aloe vera contains hormones that promote cell regeneration and repair, allowing the skin to heal faster.
The Best Aloe Vera Products for Sunburn Relief
The aloe vera products that best help with sunburn relief are typically those with pure aloe vera or a high concentration at the very least. The fewer additives, such as fragrance, alcohol, and dyes, the better, as these can irritate sunburned skin.
There are many different types of aloe vera products. The best tend to be pure aloe vera gels, but others may choose aloe vera sunburn creams and lotions. There are also sprays that can help to soothe hard-to-reach areas of the body.
Sasco makes our products only with the highest-quality aloe vera. Our Original Aloe Jelly glides on gently to provide immediate relief for minor irritations, burns, chapped skin, cuts, insect bites, poison oak and diaper rash, just to name a few. It is our go-to when we have a sunburn.
Applying Aloe Vera for Sunburn: How Often is Ideal?
Regular application is best if you want ot both treat and prevent further sunburn. You should apply it as soon as you start noticing the signs of sunburn, like your skin reddening. Apply it roughly 2 to 3 times a day, or every couple of hours for more severe cases.
You should apply the aloe vera every day until the sunburn has healed completely, as not only does it soothe the immediate pain, but it helps repair and heal the skin, keeping it hydrated. Typically, sunburn can last from 3 to 7 days for mild burns. Layering: Allow the aloe vera to fully absorb into your skin before reapplying. You can also combine it with other soothing treatments, such as cold compresses or over-the-counter creams, but avoid products with harsh chemicals.
Aloe Vera and Sunburn: The Healing Timeline
How long it takes sunburn to heal depends on the severity of the burn but also how quickly you start treating it. If you start using aloe vera immediately, you should feel instant cooling relief, and it will help reduce the associated redness and swelling over the first 24 hours.
By day 2 and 3, these should start to subside, but the skin may still feel dry and achy. Keeping applying aloe vera to moisturize the skin and help your skin repair. After this, your skin should start healing, with new skin regenerating, aided by the aloe vera.
Tips on How to Use Aloe Vera for Sunburn
- Chill the Gel: For an added cooling effect, store aloe vera gel in the refrigerator before applying it to sunburned skin.
- Gently Apply: Avoid rubbing the aloe vera too vigorously on your skin. Instead, gently pat or smooth it over the affected area to avoid irritating the skin further.
- Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing loose, breathable fabrics can help prevent further irritation while the aloe vera works to heal the skin.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your skin stay hydrated and aid the healing process.
Can You Wear Aloe Vera in the Sun?
While aloe vera does treat sunburn, it’s not the same thing as sunscreen. It doesn’t provide sun protection, so make sure that you’re still using sunscreen. Typically, you want to use a broad spectrum type with an SPF of 30 or above. Protect your skin from sun damage, first and foremost. Then apply aloe vera to help treat any sunburn you might experience.
In conclusion, aloe vera is a powerful natural remedy for sunburn, offering immediate relief and promoting faster healing. For optimal benefits, apply it frequently, 2 to 3 times a day or as needed during the first few days after the sunburn occurs. While aloe vera soothes and repairs, make sure to stay out of the sun or use sunscreen to prevent further damage.