If you have been enjoying sandy beaches or spending lots of time outside, the souvenir we often bring back is a sunburn.
The painful redness, inflammation, and discomfort that accompany sunburn can make life quite miserable. While there are various home remedies available, one natural solution that has gained attention from beauty experts is Epsom salt. In this article, we will explore how epsom salt help sunburn.
Understanding Sunburn
Before delving into the specifics of using Epsom salt for sunburn, it’s essential to understand what sunburn is.
Sunburn occurs when the skin is overexposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The skin responds by producing more melanin, the pigment responsible for the skin’s color.
This leads to the skin becoming red, inflamed, and painful.
The Magic of Minerals: What is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt also known as magnesium sulfate, is a natural mineral compound. When epsom salt is dissolved in warm water, it can be absorbed through the skin.
It is named after the town of Epsom in Surrey, England, where it flows out of natural springs.
The health benefits of Epsom salt are famous for easing sore muscles, bee stings, poison ivy, allergic reactions, improving sleep, and reducing stress. It is commonly used in the bath or as a foot soak.
The good news is that Epsom salt is an effective treatment for sunburn.
The Benefits of Epsom Salt
Not only does the epsom salt work for sunburn, it can help reduce itchy skin, inflammation, swelling, and irritation. It can also draw out any toxins. Here’s how epsom salt can help sunburn.
1. Soothing Properties
Epsom salt, scientifically known as magnesium sulfate, has remarkable soothing properties. When added to a bath, it dissolves in water, releasing magnesium and sulfate ions. These ions are absorbed through the skin, which can help reduce inflammation, redness, and discomfort associated with sunburn.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Magnesium, a key component of Epsom salt, is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Epsom salt’s anti-inflammatory properties can help calm the skin’s inflammatory response caused by sunburn, providing relief and aiding in the healing process.
3. Hydration
Epsom salt baths can contribute to skin hydration, a crucial aspect of sunburn recovery. Properly hydrated skin can heal more efficiently and shed damaged cells, allowing fresh, healthy skin to emerge.
4. Gentle Exfoliation
Celebrity skin care expert Ole Henriksen has spoken about the benefits of using epsom salts both before and after spending time in the sun. Using epsom salts as an exfoiliater helps to remove dead skin cells, improve circulation and smooths the skin for easier application of sunscreen and better absorption of moisturisers.
Exfoliation is essential in removing dead and damaged skin cells after a sunburn. Epsom salt, when gently applied to the affected area, can aid in exfoliation, promoting the growth of new skin cells and preventing peeling.
Using Epsom Salt for Sunburn Relief
Here’s how you can use epsom salt for sunburn pain relief. These methods are incredible for soothing mild sunburn. For more severe sun burn please seek immediate medical attention.
1. Epsom Salt Bath
Having an Epsom salt bath is one of the most popular ways to take advantage of the benefits of Epsom salt for sunburn.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of Epsom salt
- Warm bathwater
Instructions:
- Fill your bathtub with warm water.
- Add 2 cup of Epsom salt to the water and stir until dissolved.
- Soak in the bath for about 15-20 minutes.
- Gently pat your skin dry and avoid rubbing.
Bonus Tips
- You can also put a few drops of essential oils in your bath such as chamomile or lavender oil for extra soothing
- You can also add some oatmeal. Oatmeal baths help reduce redness.
- Don’t use hot water as this can irritate your sun burn instead have cool baths or showers.
2. Epsom Salt Compress
A Epsom salt compress can quickly sooth sunburn irritation.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons of Epsom salt
- 1 cup of water
- Soft cotton washcloth
Instructions:
- Dissolve 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt in 1 cup of cold water.
- Soak the soft cloth in the solution and wring out the excess.
- Gently apply the cloth to the sunburned area for 15 minutes.
- Repeat this process several times a day.
- Moisturise the area after with a natural oil such as coconut oil or olive oil to moisturise the area
3. Epsom Salt Spray
For quick relief try making an Epsom salt spray. Store in the fridge and the cold spray will cool the sun burn.
- Cold water
- 1-2 teaspoon of epsom salt
- Spray bottle
Instructions:
- For a quick relief option, mix 1-2 teaspoon of Epsom salt in a gallon of water, and put the solution in an empty spray bottle.
- Spray it on the sunburn for a quick and convenient relief.
4. Sunburn-Relieving Lotion
Mixing Epsom salt with lotion can provide quick sunburn relief. Perfect for children who do not have the patience to soak in an Epsom salt bath.
- cup of hot water
- 1 cup Epsom salt
- Your favourite lotion
- Mix ½ cup of Epsom Salts and ½ cup of hot water. Mix to ensure the salt is dissolved
- Add three cups of your favorite moisturizing lotion and stir until combined
- Gently apply to the affected areas as needed.
5. Soothing Paste
For smaller sunburned areas or rashes, stings, and bites, try this soothing Epsom salt paste.
- Cup of hot water
- a teaspoon of Epsom salt
- Combine the Epsom salt and hot water and stir the mixture until the salt is dissolved.
- Place the paste in the fridge until cooled. Before applying the paste, clean the affected area and pat it dry. Then, apply the paste as needed.
Read next – Sun Spots VS Freckles or Glycerin Soap Benefits
Moisturise
Epsom salts can cause dry skin, so remember to moisturize your skin well after using. Use a very rich moisturizer or a few drops of aromatherapy oil such as lavender essential oil
Precautions and Tips
- While Epsom salt can be beneficial, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have allergies or skin conditions.
- Do not use Epsom salt on open wounds or broken skin.
- If the sunburn is severe or accompanied by fever, seeking medical attention is crucial.
Epsom salt is a natural remedy that offers several benefits for soothing sunburned skin. Its anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties, along with its ability to promote gentle exfoliation, make it a valuable addition to your sunburn recovery regimen. However, it’s important to use Epsom salt carefully and consult a medical professional if needed.
FAQs About Epsom Salt and Sunburn
- Is Epsom salt safe for all skin types? Epsom salt is generally safe, but if you have sensitive or allergic skin, it’s recommended to do a patch test first.
- Can I use table salt instead of Epsom salt for sunburn relief? No, table salt is not a suitable substitute. Epsom salt contains magnesium and sulfate, which offer unique benefits for skin health.
- How often should I take an Epsom salt bath for sunburn? You can take an Epsom salt bath once a day or as needed, depending on the severity of your sunburn.
- Can Epsom salt completely cure sunburn? Epsom salt can help alleviate the discomfort and aid in the healing process, but it may not completely cure sunburn on its own.
- Are there any side effects of using Epsom salt for sunburn? Side effects are rare, but some individuals might experience dryness or irritation. It’s best to discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.
Conclusion
Epsom salt is a natural remedy that offers several benefits for soothing sunburned skin. Its anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties, along with its ability to promote gentle exfoliation, make it an effective method for your sunburn recovery regimen. However, if your sunburn is severe be sure to seek medical advice immediately.
If you prefer natural products then try Epsom salt for a natural way to treat your sun burn.
