Best Home Remedies for Sun Poisoning

Sun Poisoning

Sun poisoning is nothing but a worsened sub burn skin reaction after exposure to sunlight. Sun poisoning results in peeling and hive like blisters. To make things worse, you are at a high risk of developing scars with the itching caused due to blisters. However, the good news is that sun poisoning can be treated with some simple home remedies.

Symptoms of Sun Poisoning

Medically called as polymorphic light eruption or photo dermatitis, sun poisoning can have varied symptoms. Some of the main symptoms include:

• Red rashes on the skin
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Blisters
• Skin peeling
• Itchiness
• Fever
• Nausea
• Pain and swelling
• Eczema like lesions
• Darkening of the skin

Risk Factors and Causes for Skin Poisoning

Sun poisoning can happen to anyone who is continuously exposed to harsh sunlight. However, there are some risk factors that can increase the chances of getting skin poisoning:

• Living in high altitude
• Using chemical peels on the skin
• Live in extremely hot climate regions
• Are on any particular antibiotics
• Are on contraceptives
• Have light complexion or very fair screen
• Go to beaches frequently
• Have family history of skin cancer
• Who have applied citrus oils before going out in the sun

Home Remedies for Sun Poisoning

To reduce the severity of sun poisoning, there few home remedies that are completely natural and safe. Some of the best home remedies for sun poisoning are as follows:

#1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Although acidic in nature, you may be surprised to know that apple cider vinegar is one of the best sun poisoning remedies to opt for. Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties that help in cooling the inflamed and itchy skin, thereby speeding the process of recovery. Dilute 1 table spoon of apple cider vinegar in cold water and mix well. Using cotton pads, soak them in this mixture and apply to affected areas.

#2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the blisters, redness, and pain that occurs due to sun poisoning. You can use edible or virgin coconut oil and apply it on affected areas. Keep for about 60 minutes before washing off.

#3. Baking Soda

Baking soda is considered to be one of the most effective home remedies for sun poisoning. The alkaline nature of baking soda helps restore the disturbed pH of the skin caused due to sun poisoning. Take about 1 tablespoon of baking soda and dilute it with water to form a smooth paste. Apply this paste on affected areas and rise with lukewarm water.

#4. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera acts like a wonder drug for most skin related issues. It is also known to be one of the safest sun poisoning remedies that can be used at home. Aloe Vera possess wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the blisters caused due to sun exposure. Apply Aloe Vera gel on affected areas and leave on for about 30 minutes. Once dry, gently rinse with water.

#5. Green Tea Bags

Green tea contains polyphenols which possess anti-oxidant properties. These anti-oxidant properties help treat peeling skin, blisters, and revive sun damaged skin. Refrigerate used green tea bag for an hour. Once cool, place them on the affected area and leave them on for about an hour or so.

#6. Honey

Honey is one of the safest home remedies for sun poisoning. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, sun poisoning can be cured in no time. Honey also helps soothe itchy and irritated skin. Apply honey evenly on affected areas and leave on to dry for about 30 minutes. Later rinse with cold water.

Prevention for Sun Poisoning

To help the listed above remedies to work more effectively, listed below are some prevention tips to speed up the process of healing and also protect the skin.

• Reduce exposure to skin
• Always wear a sunscreen of minimum SPF 40 before stepping out in the sun
• Wear protective clothing and always carry accessories like hats and umbrellas

The above mentioned remedies are safe and effective ways to treat sun poisoning. However, if you see that the symptoms do not reduce, contact your doctor immediately. Do not take sun poisoning lightly. Remember that while the effects of sun burn is temporary, the damage to the skin and DNA inside is permanent. Long term effects can lead to wrinkles, cancer, and ageing. Ensure that you take care of your skin while you step out in the sun.

References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/sun-poisoning#complications
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318005#Symptoms-of-sun-poisoning
3. https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/sun-poisoning