Aloe Vera for Sunburns: Does It Help?

Aloe Vera for Sunburns: Does It Help?

We all know the sensation of a sunburn is extremely painful. Your skin turns rosy and warm to the touch, and even changing clothes causes you to exclaim, "Ow!"

Aloe vera gel is a common remedy for sunburn, though there are many others. The substance, which originates naturally from the aloe plant, has been prescribed for use on sunburns by some.

Although aloe vera has some calming properties, it is not enough to completely heal sunburned skin.

Paul Benedetto, MD, a dermatologist, discusses what we know about aloe vera and what you should know before applying it to a sunburn, as well as how to prevent future injuries.

Here are some points about Aloe Vera for Sunburns

Does aloe vera aid in treating sunburns?

In a sense, absolutely. But the modest plant cannot perform miracles.

Dr. Benedetto states, "Aloe does not prevent sunburn, and it has been shown in multiple studies to be no more effective than a placebo in treating sunburn." 

Even if this gel feels nice on your sunburn, it is neither a cure for your sunburn nor a suitable substitute for sunscreen. However, there is a reason why so many people use it: it appears to have cooling properties that help assuage the discomfort of a sunburn.

In other words, aloe vera can be a soothing companion in relieving sunburn discomfort. But it will not make it disappear any quicker.

Exist any advantages to using aloe vera?

Dr. Benedetto explains, "Aloe appears to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-protective properties, which may explain why it is often recommended for sunburn." Aloe's physical properties can also have a comforting effect on the epidermis.

Aloe vera has moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can relieve the skin and possibly prevent severe flaking, according to one study.

As the most effective treatment for a sunburn is time, aloe vera gel can help keep the affected area less irritated as it recovers.

Is the use of aloe vera safe?

When it comes to your epidermis, it's probably not a good idea to apply random substances. Therefore, you may question if aloe vera is secure to use. 

"Overall, aloe vera can be considered safe," Dr. Benedetto assures. However, he cautions that an adverse reaction to aloe vera is conceivable.

"Occasionally, individuals may develop an allergic or irritant dermatitis reaction to aloe products, but the incidence is low," he says. However, if you experience irritation or develop a rash immediately after using aloe, you may be experiencing a negative reaction.

How should I apply aloe vera to my skin?

Whether you obtain it from a local drugstore or directly from the plant's leaf, the gel-like substance is quite accessible. However, is one source superior to others?

The best method to make a decision, according to Dr. Benedetto, is to consider availability, expense, and convenience. "Both processed aloe creams and whole-plant aloe will likely have similar soothing effects on the skin," he continues.

If you have previously experienced a negative reaction to aloe, you may want to reconsider its use. And if you have allergies, be sure to read the labels of all store-bought products carefully to identify all additive ingredients. 

Few more points given here about the Aloe Vera for Sunburns

Application of aloe vera to a sunburn

To apply any type of aloe vera, simply apply a thin layer of gel to the afflicted area throughout the day. Some proponents of aloe vera also recommend refrigerating aloe vera to increase its calming and cooling effects.

This can be used with any of these aloe vera varieties; however, if you believe your injury has reached "hell's itch" territory, consult a physician first.

Aloe plant

Not only does aloe have numerous beneficial properties, but it also requires little care. Simply maintain an aloe plant at home and use the gel extracted from one of its spiny leaves. By cutting off a leaf, slicing it in half, and applying the gel from the inside to the afflicted area of skin, the purified gel can be extracted. As required throughout the day.

Gel sold in stores

Lacking a verdant thumb? No concerns. Aloe vera gel is readily available in stores and online. Look for unadulterated or one hundred percent aloe vera gel to avoid skin-irritating ingredients. Apply a layer of lubricant to the affected area and reapply as necessary.

Lotion

Aloe vera's advantages can also be obtained via lotion. This may be a decent option if you want a daily moisturizer with two functions. However, using a lotion increases the likelihood of discovering a product with added fragrances or chemicals. In light of this and the finding of a recent study that 70% aloe vera lotion is not as effective against sunburns, ordinary gel may be the best option. 

Best protection against sunlight

You may now be pondering, "Well, if aloe vera doesn't actually treat a sunburn, what does?" You may know the answer already.

In essence, the most effective method to remedy a sunburn is to travel back in time and apply more sunscreen. As this is not feasible, use the time spent waiting for your sunburn to recover to purchase a stronger sunblock for your next beach day. 

"The best way to 'treat' a sunburn is to prevent one," Dr. Benedetto emphasizes. "It is essential to use an SPF of an adequate concentration. Use a minimum of 30 SPF for daily use, and 50 SPF or higher for intense solar exposure, such as at the seaside. And be careful to apply sunscreen every two hours." 

Also read: The Benefits of Drinking Aloe Vera Juice

In addition, it wouldn't harm to purchase sun-protective apparel or a beach umbrella as an additional barrier against the sun's rays. 

In addition to aloe vera, there are several additional methods to alleviate the discomfort of a severe burn, including: 

Showering in chilly water. 

Drinking loads of water. 

To allow the area to ventilate, wear loose-fitting apparel.

Avoiding prolonged sun exposure and allowing your epidermis time to recover.

Dr. Benedetto explains that, after that, only time is required for the epidermis to recover.