Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help Sunburn?

While there are plenty of remedies out there for soothing sunburns, one that has gained popularity on social media is apple cider vinegar.

But, does apple cider vinegar help sunburn? I’m going to share the science behind whether apple cider vinegar actually helps sunburn, and some tips on how to relieve sunburn discomfort.

What Happens to the Skin During Sunburn?

When you spend too much time in the sun, your skin can become inflamed and irritated.

This is known as a sunburn, and it can range from a minor irritation to a severe burn that requires medical attention.

During severe sunburn itself, your skin becomes damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can penetrate the outer layer of your skin and damage the DNA in your skin cells.

This can cause the affected areas of your skin to become red, swollen, and painful.

As well as the burning sensation, sunburn can also cause sunburn blisters to form on your skin.

These blisters are your body’s way of trying to protect the damaged skin underneath. However, it’s important not to pop these blisters, as this can increase the risk of infection.

Even minor, mild sunburns can cause skin irritations that can be uncomfortable and unsightly. However, bad sunburns can have more serious consequences, such as an increased risk of skin cancer.

To prevent and treat sunburns, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

This can be done by wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats, and by using sunscreen with a high SPF. If you do get sunburned, it’s important to treat your skin gently and avoid further exposure to the sun until it has healed.

Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help Sunburn?

If you’ve ever had a sunburn, you know how uncomfortable and painful it can be.

There are many home remedies that people swear by to help soothe sunburned skin, and one of them is apple cider vinegar.

But does apple cider vinegar really help with sunburn? Let’s take a closer look.

Sunburns are uncomfortable and typically occur after too much sun exposure, causing redness, inflammation, and stinging or burning.

Apple cider vinegar may help to treat mild sunburns due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

To use apple cider vinegar topically on the skin, create a 50/50 solution of water and ACV and apply it directly onto affected areas with a damp cloth.

However caution should be used when applying ACV directly onto the skin as it can cause irritation if left on too long.

Some people report relief from symptoms like itching or discomfort caused by mild sunburns when using topical application of ACV.

Best Way To Apply Apple Cider Vinegar To Sunburned Skin

If you want to try using diluted apple cider vinegar for sunburn, the best way to apply it is to dilute it with water. Undiluted apple cider vinegar can be too harsh for your own skin tone and may cause further irritation.

Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle or bowl, then apply it to the affected area with a cotton ball or soft cloth. Be sure to avoid any open wounds or blisters.

Downsides To Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Sunburn

While apple cider vinegar has many potential benefits, there are also some downsides to using it for sunburn remedies. First, it may not be effective for all sunburn remedies everyone.

Some people may find that it doesn’t help with their sunburn at all, while others may experience further irritation or discomfort.

The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can be too harsh for some skin types, so it’s important to dilute it properly.

Can You Apply Apple Cider Vinegar To Facial Sunburn?

If you have a facial sunburn, you may be wondering if you can use apple cider vinegar to soothe it.

While it’s generally safe to use diluted apple cider vinegar alone on your face, you should be careful not to get it in your eyes or mouth. Additionally, you may want to dilute it more than usual to avoid any potential irritation.

While apple cider vinegar may have some potential benefits for sunburned skin, it’s important to use it properly and be aware of any potential downsides.

If you’re not sure if apple cider vinegar is right for you, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor or dermatologist.

Does White Vinegar Work As A Sunburn Remedy?

White vinegar has been known to be a common ingredient in many skin care recipes and a possible remedy for sunburns.

Though white vinegar is acidic, it can still be used to treat sunburnt skin, as long as it is diluted with some water to form a solution.

Vinegar should not be applied directly or undiluted onto open sores or broken skin, though it can help eliminate the sting and burning sensation of regular sunburns.

When applied to the affected area with a cotton ball soaked in the diluted solution, you may experience some temporary relief from the pain associated with sunburns.

It also helps reduce inflammation caused by excessive exposure to the sun’s rays and encourages healing of sunburnt skin over several days’ time.

If you are experiencing any blistering due to your exposure, white vinegar should not be used; instead consult an expert for further treatment options specific to your situation.

Other Natural Remedies For Treating Sunburned Skin

If you’re looking for other natural remedies to soothe your sunburned skin, you’re in luck! There are several options available that can help alleviate your symptoms and promote healing.

Aloe Vera Gel and Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a popular remedy for treating sunburn. It has analgesic properties that can reduce pain and inflammation to treat sunburn, and its cooling effect can provide instant relief.

You can use aloe vera gel or extract directly from the aloe plant. Apply it generously to the affected area and leave it on for several hours. Repeat as necessary.

Tea Bags and Baking Soda

Tea bags and baking soda are also effective remedies for treating sunburn. Tea bags contain tannic acid, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Baking soda has alkaline properties that can help soothe the skin and reduce itching.

To use, steep tea bags in cool water and apply to the affected area, or mix baking soda with cold water together to create a paste and apply to the skin.

Chilled Cucumber and Lavender Oil

Chilled cucumber slices can provide instant relief for sunburned skin. The cooling effect of ice cubes on the cucumber can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin after sun itself.

You can also add a few drops of lavender oil to your own bath water or apply it directly to the affected area. Lavender oil has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and promote healing.

Cool Water and Cold Compress

Cool water showers or cold compresses can also help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with sunburn.

Soak cotton balls or a cotton pad in cool water and gently pat the affected area. You can also soak paper towels in cool water and apply them to the inflamed skin for several minutes.

Starch-Based Compounds and Hydrocortisone Cream

Starch-based compounds, such as cornstarch or oatmeal, can help reduce itching and promote healing. You can add them to your bath or create a paste and apply directly to the skin.

Hydrocortisone cream is also a popular remedy for treating sunburn. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling and treat mild sunburn itself.

Remember to drink plenty of water and take pain relievers if necessary, but avoid using anything that may make the burn worse, such as petroleum-based products. 

How Long Does It Take for Sunburn to Heal?

When you get a sunburn, your skin becomes red, painful, and sometimes swollen. The healing process can vary depending on the severity of the burn.

Mild sunburns can take a few days to heal, while severe sunburns can take up to several weeks.

The first step in the healing process is to get out of the sun and avoid further sun exposure. This will help prevent further damage to your skin.

Applying a cool compress or taking a very cool bath or shower can also help relieve the pain and reduce inflammation.

After about half an hour, you can apply an aloe vera gel or a moisturizing cream to the affected area. This will help soothe the skin and promote healing.

Be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help your body repair the damaged skin.

It’s important to avoid picking at any blisters or peeling skin, as this can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

If the sunburn is severe, you may want to consider taking over-the-counter pain medication or seeing a doctor for prescription medication.

 

Summary

In general, most sunburns will start to heal within a few days to a week.

However, it’s important to continue to protect your skin from further sun damage, by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and avoiding midday sun exposure. Remember, prevention is always the best cure when it comes to sunburns.

All products featured on Gemma Etc. are PR samples or gifted items, unless otherwise indicated. This post may contain affiliate links. If you wish to find out more, please see my Disclaimer within my navigation bar.