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Sunburn is a common phenomenon that is encountered in everyday life. Although it is usually seen on humans, animals and plants can also get sunburned. Sunburn is simply a result of prolonged exposure to the sun without adequately protecting the skin. Due to this damage suffered by the skin, people normally experience a large amount of pain and a stinging, hot sensation when the skin is touched. Sunburns can also be really itchy.

A sunburn itch is simply a natural effect once your skin begins the healing process. As your skin begins to replace the old, damaged skin with a new layer of skin, the affected area begins to feel itchy. Your skin may also start to peel on account of this healing process. Scratching an itchy sunburn patch can lead to several complications, and should therefore be avoided. Also bear in mind that scratching can prolong the healing process as it can cause wounds or blisters. When this happens, an open wound could even lead to an infection

Sun Burn Remedies

Instead, you can use a few simple home remedies for sunburn that will help minimize and temporarily relieve the itching:

• Apply a cold compress or soak the affected area in cool water. This usually relieves the itching, even if only momentarily. You can also add a teaspoon of baking soda to your bathwater for relief.
• Aloe vera gel is an excellent natural treatment for sunburn, and has a wonderful hydrating and soothing effect. This works best if you have an aloe vera plant yourself – simply break open a leaf, take a bit of the gel, and apply it on the sunburned skin. If you do not have access to an aloe plant, you can simply purchase an aloe vera gel at any herbal store.
• To minimize the itching, you can apply moisturizers and anti-itch lotions on the skin. These lotions are available at any drugstore. If you don’t know what to buy, you can always ask the pharmacist at the drugstore counter, who would be able to recommend an over-the counter anti-itch lotion for you. However, if the skin is broken, you should avoid using any such cream or lotion.
• Finally, make sure that you drink plenty of water. Sunburn often causes dehydration, and this is more dangerous than the skin damage itself.

Finally, ensure that you get enough rest, especially during the first couple of days after the sunburn. Wearing loose, comfortable clothes made of soft, natural fibers will also help.