Apple vinegar has been promoted as a home remedy for
sunburns, but does it act ually work?
Continue reading to find out.
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Vinegar For Sunburn: Myth Or Reality |
What Causes Sunburn?
When you spend time in the sun, your body produces more
melanin to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays.
Melanin is the pigment that gives your skin, hair, and eyes
color.
However, your skin will eventually reach a point where
melanin production is slowed. This harms the genetic material in your skin.
To get rid of the damaged skin cells, healthy cells promote
inflammation. This is referred to as the UV stress response. Skin cancer can
develop when your body produces new replacement cells.
The speed with which you get a sunburn is determined by a
number of factors, including your skin tone and the time of day. If you are
very fair, you can get sunburned after only 15 minutes in the midday sun.
The blood vessels in your skin dilate three to four hours
after sun exposure, causing the redness associated with sunburn.
The full extent of your sunburn may not be apparent for at
least 24 hours. Sunburns usually reach their peak 24 to 36 hours after exposure
and heal in three to five days.
How can apple cider vinegar help with Sunburn?
You can use apple cider vinegar to treat a sunburn in a
variety of ways. Although most methods advise diluting apple cider vinegar
before applying it to the skin, no reliable sources provide a specific
vinegar-to-water ratio.
Ensure that the vinegar is thoroughly diluted, as high
concentrations can cause a burning sensation.
You can try the following methods:
Putting vinegar and water in a spray bottle to use on
sunburned skin.
Using a washcloth, dip it in vinegar, wring it out, and
gently pat it on the affected areas.
Bathing in a cool bath of diluted apple cider vinegar.
Vinegar can cause burns on its own
Apple cider has been promoted as a hair clarifyer, facial
toner, wart remover, and acne treatment. It has antimicrobial properties.
However, undiluted apple cider vinegar has been known to
cause burns, so make sure it's thoroughly diluted.
In 2012, an eight-year-old boy was reported to have suffered
chemical burns after apple cider vinegar was applied to an infected area on his
leg.
How is Apple Vinegar Produced?
Apple cider vinegar is made from the juice left over after crushing
apples.
The juice is fermented with yeast to produce ethanol.
Following that, it is fermented with bacteria to produce
acetic acid and sharp, tangy vinegar.
Acetic acid levels in apple cider vinegar range from 1 to 11
percent.
What Doctors Say About Using Vinegar to Treat Sunburn
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends soothing a
hot sunburn with cool tap water, either through compresses or bathing.
They also advise the use of a moisturizer, aloe vera gel or
liquid, or hydrocortisone cream.
Factors influencing the duration of a sunburn
A variety of factors may influence how long your sunburn
symptoms last. Everyone does not react the same way to sun exposure.
The following factors, in general, make people more
susceptible to severe sunburns that take longer to heal:
Fair Skin
Exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m
Places near the equator
Medications that make you more prone to burns
(photosensitizing medications)
When should you see a doctor?
Keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
If you develop a fever and sunburn, see a doctor
immediately.
Fainting sensation, rapid pulse, extreme thirst, and no
urine output
Nauseousness or vomiting chills
Blisters that cover a large portion of your body.
Skin Protection
Remember that while sunburn symptoms are temporary, the
damage to your skin and DNA is permanent.
Premature aging, wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancer are
all long-term effects. It only takes one bad sunburn to have an adverse impact.
When you go outside, apply sunscreen, and wear hats,
sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing to protect your skin.
Natural Remedies for Sunburn
In this article, we'll explore a few at-home remedies that
can help soothe sunburn and promote healing. These remedies include aloe vera,
potatoes, cucumbers, and honey.
Aloe Vera: Nature's Healing Power
Aloe vera is a well-known plant packed with powerful
nutrients that can speed up the healing process. It's considered one of the
best remedies for sunburn due to its soothing properties. You can either cut
the leaves of an aloe plant or purchase bottled aloe vera gel. Apply the gel
topically to the sunburned area to soothe the sting and reduce redness. Aloe
vera also provides a cooling sensation, offering instant relief from
discomfort.
Potatoes: A Surprising Solution
Believe it or not, potatoes can be an effective
remedy for sunburn. These starchy vegetables contain compounds that may help
soothe irritated skin. To use potatoes for sunburn relief, simply slice up a
raw potato and rub a slice gently on the affected area. The coolness of the
potato and its natural starch-based properties can provide a soothing effect,
reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Cucumbers: Cooling and Calming
Cucumbers are not only refreshing in salads but can also
offer relief to sunburned skin. The cooling effect of cucumber slices
can help soothe the discomfort caused by sunburn. Simply cut chilled cucumber
into slices and place them directly on the affected areas. The cucumber's high
water content and anti-inflammatory properties can provide a refreshing and
calming sensation, easing the pain associated with sunburn.
Honey: Ancient Remedy for Modern Sunburn
Dating back to ancient Egyptian times, honey has been
used as a topical treatment for various skin conditions, including sunburn.
Honey has natural antibacterial properties that can reduce the risk of
infection and promote healing. Applying a thin layer of honey to your sunburned
skin can help accelerate the healing process and alleviate pain. Make sure to
use raw, organic honey for the best results.
Remember, while these natural remedies can provide relief,
they may not completely cure sunburn or prevent long-term damage. It's
essential to take preventive measures such as wearing sunscreen, and protective
clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
In conclusion
Many websites and proponents of natural healthcare claim
that apple cider vinegar has exceptional health benefits, such as boosting
energy and treating disease.
Unfortunately, there is little research to back up most of
its health claims.
Nonetheless, some research suggests that it may have some
advantages, such as killing bacteria, lowering blood sugar levels, and
promoting weight loss.
As long as you don't consume excessive amounts of apple
cider vinegar, it appears to be safe.
It can also be used for things other than health, such as a
natural hair conditioner, skin care product, and cleaning agent.
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