Sunburn Remedies

Anyone who goes camping is a candidate for sunburn, unless it rains during their entire trip. It is a condition that shouldn’t go untreated. Severe sunburn can be very painful and can even result in a visit to the emergency room.

(Studies indicate the just two instances of severe sunburn before age 18 can greatly increase your chances of skin cancer. So… ALWAYS wear sunblock. It is the best way to prevent sunburn.)

If you do get burned, here are two easy and inexpensive ways that you can ease the pain. The good news is you probably have access to these two products, even though you are vacationing miles from home.

Vinegar. You might smell a bit like pickles after this treatment, but vinegar has proven to be a very effective remedy for sunburn. You can either use it straight out of the bottle or mix it with equal parts of water.

Pour it into a small spray bottle or dip a cloth into it and apply to sunburned areas. (I have found that the spray bottle works the best, especially for larger areas.)

Aloe Vera. Don’t leave home without this plant! It works wonders for sunburn… even better than the expensive over the counter stuff. Break off a small piece of the plant. Squeeze out the liquid and apply directly to sunburn.