First Aid

Sunburn

Cool the skin, restore moisture, calm inflammation, and reduce peeling and long-term sun damage after overexposure.

Prevention

Key nutrients: Astaxanthin, lycopene, vitamin C & E, omega-3, polyphenols.

Eat regularly: Tomatoes (cooked), watermelon, salmon, shrimp, berries, citrus, dark chocolate, green tea, olive oil.

Diet doesn't replace sunscreen — seek shade and cover up during peak hours.

Aloe vera gel

HerbStrong evidence

Refrigerated aloe gel applied generously 3–4× daily is the gold-standard remedy — cools, hydrates, and reduces inflammation.

Cool oat bath

FoodStrong evidence

Colloidal oatmeal in a tepid bath for 15–20 minutes soothes burning, itching, and tightness across large areas of sunburn.

Green tea compress

HerbModerate evidence

Brewed green tea (cooled) on a soft cloth applied to the skin — polyphenols reduce UV-induced inflammation.

Coconut oil

FoodTraditional use

After the heat has fully left the skin (24+ hours), virgin coconut oil restores moisture and reduces peeling.

Vitamin E + Vitamin C

VitaminModerate evidence

Topical vitamin E and oral vitamin C (1000 mg) reduce oxidative damage from UV; useful both preventively and after sunburn.

A note of caution. Natural doesn't mean risk-free. Herbs and supplements can interact with medications, affect pregnancy, or worsen certain conditions. Speak with a qualified clinician before starting a new regimen, especially if you take prescriptions.