Sunburn is a common consequence of overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, resulting in painful, inflamed skin. In the search for relief, many people turn to traditional home remedies, with vinegar, particularly apple cider vinegar, being a popular folk treatment. This practice stems from the belief that the pantry staple can soothe the burning sensation and accelerate healing. Evaluating this common claim requires a look at the science behind how vinegar interacts with damaged skin.
How Vinegar Interacts With Sunburned Skin
The theoretical benefit of applying vinegar to sunburned skin centers on its acidity, primarily due to acetic acid. Sunburn is an inflammatory response that can temporarily increase the skin’s pH level. The acidic nature of vinegar is thought to help “rebalance” the skin’s pH back toward its natural slightly acidic state, which proponents claim reduces inflammation and pain.
Vinegar is also credited with possessing mild antiseptic properties, which could theoretically help prevent secondary infection in the compromised skin barrier. Furthermore, some believe the malic acid content in apple cider vinegar may help speed up the exfoliation of dead skin cells, which is the body’s natural way of shedding the damaged outer layer.
The temporary cooling sensation often felt upon applying a cool, diluted vinegar solution can be mistaken for a healing effect. However, definitive scientific research proving that vinegar effectively treats sunburn is limited. The claims about its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic action on sun-damaged skin largely remain anecdotal, without the backing of comprehensive clinical studies.
Safe Use and Potential Risks of Vinegar Application
The acetic acid in vinegar presents a significant risk to already injured skin. Undiluted vinegar is highly acidic and can cause chemical burns, which will greatly exacerbate the pain and damage of the sunburn. Dermatologists caution against using any acid on skin that is already inflamed and delicate.
If a person chooses to use this folk remedy for a mild burn, dilution is absolutely necessary to minimize the risk of further irritation. A common recommendation involves adding a small amount of vinegar, such as one cup, to a cool bath and soaking for a short duration. Even heavily diluted vinegar can cause stinging.
Vinegar should never be applied to severe sunburns, especially those with blistering or open wounds, as the acidity can worsen the injury and increase the risk of infection. The temporary relief some people feel is often due to the cooling of the water or the evaporation of the solution, not necessarily a regenerative effect. Given the potential for irritation and the lack of strong scientific evidence, vinegar is not a universally recommended treatment for sunburn.
Proven Alternatives for Sunburn Relief
When seeking relief for sunburn, established, evidence-based methods are generally the safest and most effective. The immediate goal is to cool the skin and reduce inflammation. Taking a cool bath or shower helps to lower the skin’s temperature and ease the pain.
Following a cool soak, applying a pure aloe vera gel is a highly recommended action due to its moisturizing, cooling, and anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera has been scientifically shown to promote healing in first and second-degree burns. Applying a moisturizer that contains aloe vera or soy can also help to soothe the affected skin.
For internal relief, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can be taken as soon as possible after sun exposure. These medications work systemically to reduce the body’s inflammatory response, thereby minimizing swelling, redness, and pain. It is also important to drink extra water, as a sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body, which can lead to dehydration.
Certain ingredients should be avoided on sunburned skin, including petroleum-based products, which can trap heat and worsen the burn. Also, avoid ‘caine’ products, such as benzocaine or lidocaine, as they can sometimes cause allergic skin reactions. Applying cool compresses or cloths dampened with cool water to the affected area is another simple and effective method to provide comfort.