"I'm gonna soak up the sun..."
Ahhh sunshine! Those wonderful summer rays beating down on you and I! I love playing around in water or sunbathing during the summer! Working on your tan can be great until your skin gets a little too kissed by that blessed sun. Then it causes you to turn red, peel, itch and just be absolutely miserable! Thankfully there are several herbs and natural remedies you can use to lessen the pain and time of a burn.
I think Aloe Vera is one of the best known gels. My mom used to smother me in it as a child. I grew to detest that sticky green stuff! But yet it really does work. Other things you can do is rub down the skin in Apple Cider Vinegar, it draws the heat out of the skin. Just soak a thin towel and apply where needed. Many swear by Vitamin E oil, which if apply frequently will not leave scars. Witch Hazel is often looked over, but I have used it with success! It speeds the healing process and puts peeling to a minimum. Calendula petals, St John's wort oil, Chamomile, Lavender oil, and even Oatmeal are some other remedies that are known to work. Comfrey is a great skin healer, remember to use externally only, unless you are familiar with this herb. A very good burn paste for any type of burn is to use equal parts of Comfrey (powdered), Honey (raw preferably), and Wheat Germ oil. Mix these together and apply to the burn. Leave on until dried and replace with new paste as needed.
NOTE: Anyone who is using oils on the skin is much better off diluting in a carrier oil like Olive oil, Jojoba oil, Vitamin E oil, Sweet Almond oil, etc, as it can be too strong for the skin.
Be safe and enjoy your Summer!
