Soothe a sun O.D. with stuff straight from your kitchen
The first step to feeling good about summer skin is not getting burned. But if you happen to mis-slather your sunscreen or nap by the pool a bit longer than intended, we’ve got you covered. And you won’t have to go farther than your kitchen cabinets or refrigerator for relief.
Oatmeal is a sunburn lifesaver thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Grind a cup of it in a food processor, add it to a warm bath, and take a soothing soak.
Full-fat, unsweetened yogurt works some pH balance magic, plus its cool creaminess feels damn good on tender skin. Slather it on, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then gently rinse it off.
Apple cider vinegar doesn’t smell great, but it can speed up skin’s healing thanks to its acetic acid, which eases itching and inflammation. Put some in a spray bottle and give yourself a spritz every hour or so.
The tannic acid in black tea is good for easing sunburn pain (plus its antioxidants pull double duty and prevent blistering). Steep 5 to 7 bags in a teapot, then let the water cool. Soak a washcloth in the tea and apply it to your burn. You can also put the cooled, steeped teabags right on your face.
Cucumbers aren’t only good for de-puffing cry eyes. Place chilled slices on your sunburned skin for a quick cool down. Flip them over when the first side heats up.
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By Lisa Butterworth
Illustration by Annee Schwank
This article originally appeared in the June/July 2016 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!
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