Aloe vera can help treat a burn after it's happened and help the skin repair itself, but it's still better not to get burned in the first place. In 2013, sunburn was the cause of about 33,800 visits to the emergency room.
These skin cells that are cancerous from sun exposure self-destruct to prevent the damaged DNA from reaching your body. An aloe vera gel applied to sunburn can then assist with boosting the immune cells that are rebuilding your skin layers while providing comfort to you.
Use Skin Care Products Containing Aloe Vera
Aloe vera in topical form is an MVP in your skin care routine for sun exposure. Here's what you need to know about this soothing substance: It's a natural ingredient that comes from the aloe vera plant.
It's best to avoid petroleum-based moisturizers because they can trap heat and worsen the sunburn. Instead, use a light moisturizer (a lotion or gel) that contains aloe vera or soy. “Aloe and soy have antioxidant properties, which can speed up the healing process,” Dr. Zubek says.
Avoid prolonged high-risk sun exposure. Apply liberally on body, face and neck to replenish moisture, soothe and cool the skin. Reapply as desired.
Sun Damage Treatment Options
Sunburns can be treated with topical aloe vera gel and cool compresses to relieve pain. Long-term sun damage is more difficult to treat. Unfortunately, the damage caused to the collagen in the skin is permanent and can't be reversed.
10-15 minutes may be all you can afford before washing your face and going about your day or crawling into bed. The activities you do regularly might be worth weighing as well. Applying Aloe Vera for 30 minutes after sun exposure, workouts, or time outdoors may help soothe and cool the skin.
Aftersun lotions are formulated with aloe vera but contain other limb-loving ingredients that comfort, remoisturise and replenish sunburnt skin. Aloe vera alone won't have the added hydrating properties that an aftersun lotion will but does work to cool and relieve your skin.
Aloe vera and coconut oil are popular for their soothing and moisturizing properties. Other beneficial ingredients include hyaluronic acid and antioxidants like vitamin E. Apply immediately after sun exposure and showering. Reapply as needed, especially if you have sunburn or your skin feels dry.
It is known to be effective in treating sunburns, inflammation and redness. Many don't know that aloe vera can also be used as a sun block for the skin. It can protect the skin by blocking 20% of the sun exposure. Again, it can work as a block for a short span but can be reapplied.
Aloe contains chemicals that have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Make sure you use 100% aloe products to soothe your sunburn. Witch hazel. Witch hazel applied to the skin can provide anti-inflammatory relief.
Aloe vera gel can not only increase the amount of collagen in wounds but also change the composition of collagen, increase collagen cross-linking and thereby promote wound healing. Scientific studies have shown that the gel can increase the flexibility and reduce the fragility of the skin since 99% of the gel is water.
Some proponents of aloe vera also recommend keeping your aloe vera chilled to add a more soothing, cooling effect. This can work with any of these types of aloe vera, just talk to a doctor first if you think your burn has gone into “hell's itch” territory.
If there are blisters, dry bandages may help prevent infection. If your skin is not blistering, moisturizing cream may be applied to relieve discomfort. DO NOT use butter, petroleum jelly (Vaseline), or other oil-based products. These can block pores so that heat and sweat cannot escape, which can lead to infection.
After sun can absolutely be used as a daily moisturiser. These products are actually very similar to standard moisturisers, except they contain some added benefits. For example, after sun is lightweight to ensure heat is able to escape your skin, which makes it perfect for daily use.
With a high water content, Aloe Vera helps to hydrate dry skin, resulting in a more even and longer-lasting tan – but that's not all.
Leaving aloe vera gel on the face may cause it to dry out. Rinse the gel off after a few minutes to avoid this effect. Some people may experience an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis) to topical aloe vera. Always do a patch test first to check for sensitivity before using it on the face.
Topical aloe vera can irritate the skin and cause hives in people who are sensitive to it. Taking high doses of aloe latex by mouth could cause belly pain, kidney damage, and an electrolyte imbalance.