Here are the 10 best ways to treat sunburned feet using home remedies! Of course, one of the most common injuries is sunburn, especially over the spring and summer months. And one of the most inconvenient spots to get sunburn (and the most forgettable place to apply sunscreen) is your feet!
Signs and Symptoms of Sunburn
- Redness: Sunburned skin typically appears red or pink, indicating inflammation caused by UV light. This is typically the first sign of sunburn.
- Warmth: Sunburned areas may feel warm to the touch due to increased blood flow to the affected skin.
- Pain or Discomfort: Sunburned feet can be tender and painful, especially when walking or touching the affected areas.
- Swelling Feet: Sunburn can cause mild to moderate swelling in the affected areas, leading to discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes or socks.
- Blistering Skin: Severe sunburn may result in the formation of sunburn blisters filled with fluid. These blisters can be painful and increase the risk of infection if ruptured.
- Itching Skin: Sunburned skin may feel itchy as it begins to heal, which can further irritate the affected areas.
- Peeling Skin: As the sunburn heals, the affected skin may start to peel, revealing new skin underneath. This is a natural part of the skin’s recovery process.
- Fatigue: In some cases, sunburn can cause fatigue or flu-like symptoms, especially if the sunburn is severe.
If you notice any of these signs after spending time in the sun, it’s essential to take steps to soothe the sunburned skin and prevent further damage. Seek shade, apply cool compresses, stay hydrated, and avoid further sun exposure until your skin has healed. If you see any signs of infection, make sure to seek medical help.
10 Best Home Remedies for Sunburned Feet
- Cool Compresses: Apply a cool, damp cloth or towel to the tops of your feet to help alleviate heat and discomfort. You can also take a cool shower or cool bath for relief.
- Aloe Vera: Apply pure aloe vera gel directly from the plant or a store-bought gel to the top of your feet. Aloe vera has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sunburned skin. Make sure to look for an aloe vera gel that contains simple ingredients and is free of dyes.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as sunburn can lead to dehydration. Hydration supports the skin healing process and overall well-being.
- Oatmeal Bath: Add oatmeal to lukewarm to cool water foot bath and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and moisturize sunburned skin.
- Cucumber Slices: Place chilled cucumber slices on your sunburned feet. Cucumbers contain antioxidants and have a cooling effect that can provide basic burn relief.
- Coconut Oil: Apply coconut oil to your sunburned feet to moisturize and soothe the skin. Coconut oil has hydrating properties and can help reduce inflammation.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water, then soak a cloth in the solution and gently apply it to your sunburned feet. Vinegar has cooling properties that can provide relief from sunburn discomfort.
- Black Tea: Brew black tea, let it cool, and then soak a cloth in the tea and apply it to your sunburned feet. The tannins in black tea can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Rest and Elevate: Rest with your feet elevated to reduce swelling and discomfort. Avoid standing or walking for prolonged periods to give your sunburned feet time to heal.
- Epsom Salts: Use them in a bath or small tub, make a spray, or use cold compresses with epsom salts as they soothe mild sunburn irritation and provide pain relief to the affected area.
Find 3 Epsom Salt Recipes {Spray, Compress & Bath Salts} in my blog post – Natural Ways to Use Epsom Salts for Sunburn Relief. Of course, they are all easy and simple to make!
Remember to avoid further sun exposure and wear protective footwear and open-toed shoes until your sunburned feet have fully healed. If you have a severe sunburn or other symptoms like severe blistering, severe pain, severe swelling, or fever seek medical attention promptly.
How to Avoid a Bad Sunburn
- Apply Sunscreen: Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on your feet, and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. It’s best to use a mineral sunscreen to avoid any harmful chemicals, gentle on the skin and considered reef safe as well.
- Seek Shade: The best way is to stay in the shade, particularly during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., to reduce direct exposure to the sun’s rays to your feet.
- Wear Protective Footwear: Next time choose shoes that provide coverage and UV protection, such as sandals with straps or closed-toe shoes made from breathable materials. You can also choose to wear other protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect other parts of your body.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated, as dehydration can increase your susceptibility to sunburn.
- Limit Sun Exposure: Be mindful of the amount of time you spend in direct sunlight, especially if you have fair or light skin or even sensitive skin. Take breaks indoors or in shaded areas to give your skin a rest from the sun and avoid too much sun.
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