Managing your sunburn - Part 1

Good weather is back, and so are… sunburns! Sun exposure works wonders for our mood and allows us to synthesize our precious vitamin D. We can never say it enough: it is extremely important to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours. But despite all our good intentions, sometimes we lose track of time and end up with peony-colored skin—a color we prefer in the garden rather than on our faces!

On the menu: an anti-inflammatory and soothing spray, and a calming mask with emollient plants.

The essential thing is to relieve inflammation, nourish, and hydrate the skin. You shouldn't neglect internal hydration either!

Since every person and every skin type is unique, a recipe or ingredient may suit one person better than another. Irritated skin is unpredictable. It is best to test any new product on a small area before slathering it on freely, and stop use if it causes unpleasant reactions.

In this article, we present two recipes suitable for mild sunburns. They should not be used in the presence of blisters, if the skin is broken or severely inflamed, nor in the case of a second-degree burn.

For any persistent discomfort or serious burns, do not hesitate to seek medical advice!

Ingredients that help damaged skin

1. Peppermint Hydrosol

We are already very familiar with peppermint and its cooling effect! It instantly soothes skin irritated by the sun and helps reduce itching and the sensation of tightness caused by sunburns. Peppermint hydrosol can feel cold if applied to the skin in its pure state.

2. True Lavender Hydrosol

Lavender (and all its derivatives) is highly anti-inflammatory; it helps the skin regenerate and accelerates the healing of wounds and burns (including sunburns!). For those who don't like the smell of lavender, rest assured! The scent of its hydrosol is delicate and minty rather than floral and heavy.

3. Aloe Juice or Gel (Aloe vera)

Aloe’s reputation for treating burns of all kinds is well-established! Its emollient mucilage calms pain and accelerates healing.

4. Infusions

Instead of applying water to the sunburn to cool it down, a washcloth soaked in a (cooled!!!) infusion of lavender, St. John's wort, German chamomile, plantain, or calendula can be very beneficial! The powders of these same plants, which are calming and emollient, are also very useful in poultices or masks.

Two recipes to soothe your sunburns