Sunburn triggers an inflammatory response that results in redness, pain, and peeling. While preventing sunburn with sunscreen remains the best defense, certain natural oils can provide symptomatic relief and support the skin’s recovery process. These oils help soothe irritation and supply the damaged cells with necessary compounds for healing. This guide identifies safe and effective natural oils that can be used to treat sunburn and outlines the best ways to apply them.
How Topical Oils Aid Sunburn Recovery
Topical oils are useful for treating sunburn because they address two immediate problems: compromised skin barrier function and dehydration. Sun exposure damages the outer layer of the skin, leading to increased water loss, tightness, and dryness. Oils counteract this by creating a lightweight, protective layer on the skin’s surface.
This barrier minimizes moisture evaporation, helping to keep the underlying skin hydrated and preventing excessive peeling. Many plant-based oils also contain natural anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants, such as Vitamin E, which help calm redness and swelling. Applying these oils supports the skin’s natural healing mechanisms by providing a concentrated source of restorative fatty acids and nutrients.
Effective Carrier Oils for Sunburn Relief
Carrier oils form the necessary base for any oil-based sunburn treatment. They are non-volatile and well-tolerated, offering deep moisturizing properties that help restore the skin’s lipid barrier. These oils should be the main component of any mixture applied to sunburned skin, as they dilute more potent ingredients like essential oils.
Jojoba oil is highly beneficial because its structure closely mimics human sebum, making it easily absorbed without feeling heavy or clogging pores. This similarity helps to quickly replenish the damaged protective layer. Sweet almond oil is a mild, medium-weight oil rich in oleic and linoleic acids, which soothe irritation and soften the skin.
Fractionated coconut oil, where the long-chain fatty acids have been removed, is an excellent option because it remains liquid and is less greasy than its unrefined counterpart. It offers deep hydration and contains medium-chain fatty acids that possess antimicrobial properties. Applying a non-fragrant oil like sunflower seed oil provides a gentle moisturizing effect.
Enhancing Relief with Essential Oils
Essential oils (EOs) are highly concentrated plant extracts that must always be diluted in a carrier oil. They should never be applied directly to the skin. When properly diluted, select EOs enhance the soothing and cooling effects of the carrier oil. A standard, safe dilution ratio is approximately one to two drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.
Lavender essential oil is recommended for sunburn due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It helps reduce redness and swelling while providing a subtle pain-relieving effect. Peppermint essential oil is valued for the immediate cooling sensation it provides, which comes from its high menthol content.
The menthol in peppermint oil stimulates the skin’s cold receptors, offering temporary relief from the intense heat. Roman chamomile is another effective choice, prized for its calming and anti-inflammatory characteristics that help ease discomfort and irritation.
Safe Application Methods and Oils to Avoid
Oils should only be applied after the initial heat has been drawn out of the skin, often a day or more after the burn occurs, to prevent trapping heat and worsening the damage. Apply the diluted oil mixture using a gentle dabbing or patting motion, avoiding any rubbing.
Photosensitive oils, particularly those derived from citrus fruits like cold-pressed lemon, lime, and bergamot, must be avoided entirely. These oils contain compounds that react with UV light to cause severe burns and pigmentation changes.
Avoid applying petroleum jelly or thick, occlusive ointments immediately after a burn. These substances can trap residual heat close to the skin’s surface, potentially intensifying the burn and delaying the cooling process. If a sunburn is severe, with extensive blistering, fever, or signs of infection, seek professional medical attention.