Solar burns, also known as sunburns, occur when the skin is exposed to too much UV radiation from the sun. In addition to being painful, long exposure to UV radiation can also increase your risk of skin cancer.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to prevent and treat sunburns using common kitchen ingredients.

Prevention

The best way to treat sunburn is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips:.

Wear Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30 can help prevent sunburn. Apply it generously all over your skin, including your face, neck, and ears, and reapply it every two hours.

Cover Up

Wear clothing that covers up your skin as much as possible. For example, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

The sun’s rays are strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try to avoid being outside during these times as much as possible.

Treatment

If you do end up getting a sunburn, there are a few things you can do to treat it:.

Cool Compresses

Cool compresses can help relieve the pain and heat of sunburn. Use a clean, damp cloth or towel, and apply it to the affected area. Change the compress every 10-15 minutes for maximum effectiveness.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sunburned skin. Apply it directly to the affected area and allow it to dry. Reapply as needed.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers have a high water content, which can help cool and soothe sunburned skin. Cut a chilled cucumber into thin slices and place them over the affected area for 15-20 minutes.

Potatoes

Raw potatoes can help relieve the pain and inflammation of sunburn. Cut a chilled raw potato into thin slices and place them over the affected area for about 15 minutes.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has natural moisturizing properties that can help reduce the peeling and itching of sunburn. Apply it to the affected area once or twice a day.

Conclusion

Sunburns can be painful and can increase your risk of skin cancer.

However, by taking preventative measures such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, and by using common kitchen ingredients such as aloe vera and cucumbers, you can help reduce your risk of sunburn and soothe any existing sunburns.