DIY Sunburn Soothers

We know you’re diligent about your sun care, but sometimes the SPF just doesn’t cut it. If you find yourself with an unsightly and unbearable sunburn, we’ve got three all-natural DIY skin soothers that will decrease inflammation and speed up the post-burn aftermath.

FROZEN ALOE VERA CUBES

1. 100% Pure Aloe Vera Gel

2. Ice Cube Tray

Aloe vera is the number one treatment for sunburned, irritated skin, but instead of applying it straight from the tube, try freezing your aloe in ice cube trays for an extra cooling sensation. In the hot summer sun, your skin will thank you!

YOGURT SOOTHER

1. Full-fat Greek Yogurt -or-

2. Full-fat Kefir (found in grocery stores or Eastern European markets)

Greeks, Russians, and Eastern Europeans know how wonderful yogurt is and commonly use it in their skin care routines. The lactic acid in yogurt (and most dairy products) actually speeds up cell turnover and heals the skin faster, making it a perfect post-sun soother. Just make sure to buy the real-deal, full-fat version—Greek yogurt or Kefir is best. Slather on the yogurt just like a body moisturizer, and try to avoid taking a lick (it’s hard!). If you want a high-end version of this traditional folk remedy, Korres Yoghurt Cooling Gel works just as well.

BLACK TEA BURN REMEDY

1. 2 to 4 black tea bags

2. 3 or 4 cups boiling water

3. 1 glass jar or bowl

4. Washcloth

We’re adding sunburn treatment to tea’s extensive list of awesomeness. The tannic acid found in black tea actually draws heat away from the skin and cools it off. Boil a big pot of water and steep the black tea for 10 minutes. Transfer your tea to a glass jar and let it cool down naturally or with ice cubes. When it’s completely cool, apply it on burned skin with a small wash cloth on a regular basis.

Photo courtesy of saralynnpaige.com