Natural Sunscreens and Effective Remedies for Sunburn Relief!

We all know that it is important to protect our skin from sunburn! While spending time in the sun is important for our health, moderation and caution are also important to make sure that we do not damage our skin.

The use of sunscreen and sun block has sky rocketed, while doctors and skin specialists caution against sun exposure due to the risk of skin cancers.  Parents are warned not to allow their children outside without adequate protection and sun protection has turned into a multi-billion dollar industry!

While it is certainly important to exercise caution while enjoying the sunshine, it is important to remember that not all sunscreens are created equal! While the SPF advises us of the degree of sun protection in the product, it is also true that some commercial sunscreens contain ingredients that may not be good for skin, hormonal and systemic health.

We all know by now that certain chemicals can cross the skin barrier and can be absorbed into the body. In fact, research carried out by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) suggests that some chemicals commonly used in sunscreen may act as endocrine disruptors and can therefore affect thyroid and hormonal health! In fact, oxybenzone, a common ingredient in sunscreens, can also reduce sperm count in men and may increase the risk of endometriosis in women. Children may be especially vulnerable. In addition, many chemicals in conventional sunscreens can result in unwanted allergic reactions, which become more likely with frequent use. It is important for anyone using sunscreen regularly - for themselves and especially for children - to research the ingredients before deciding on which sunscreen to use!

Sunburn facts!

• Sunburn is caused from ultraviolet light from the sun.
• The risk of sunburn increases as you approach the equator. The higher the latitude, the lower the intensity of the UV rays.
• Leaving sunburn untreated can cause permanent skin damage, increasing the risk of skin cancer.
• Moral of the story – Avoiding sunburn in the first place is better than having to treat its negative effects!
• Stay out of the direct sun between 10am – 3pm – this is when the sun’s rays are at their peak
• Sit in shady cool areas
• Always wear a sunhat, sunglasses and natural sunscreen, like Sunumbra Organic Sunscreen for children and adults.  

Symptoms of sunburn

Sunburn symptoms can vary from person to person but are all very unpleasant to experience. Peak sunburn redness will take approximately 12 – 24 hours to reveal itself.  Some skin might blister and in more serious cases require hospital care. Other common sunburn symptoms are listed below:

1. Fever
2. Chills
3. Nausea & vomiting
4. Fainting
5. A general feeling of weakness and lethargy

Natural ways to treat sunburn

While avoiding sunburn in the first place is best, sometimes sunburn happens and it is important to treat it, as well as reduce the discomfort.  A natural remedy like After Sun Lotion is great for treating sunburn, but if you don’t have this on hand, you are sure to have at least one of these natural remedies to soothe and treat sunburn

• Ice – Wrap some ice or frozen peas in a towel and apply to the sunburn. Never apply direct ice to the skin as it might cause frostbite and will cause more harm than good!
• Aloe Vera – Either use an Aloe Gel product or cut the leaf of an aloe plant and use the sap. Aloe Vera  will definitely help soothe the sting out of your sunburn!
• Honey – Due to its amazing antibacterial properties, honey can help repair the sunburnt skin faster
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Either add some to your cool bath or make your own 1 part ACV to 2 parts water spritz spray. Apply to the sunburnt area as often as needed!
• Organic plain yoghurt – Spread a thin layer over the sunburn and leave it on for about 10 minutes. The probiotics will help restore your skin’s natural barrier
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! As you can imagine the sun has sucked all the moisture out of your skin so your body will feel like it wants plenty of fluids. Drink as much water as possible!