Vinegar For Sunburn: Myth Or Reality?

Overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can result in a painful sunburn.

Apple vinegar has been promoted as a home remedy for sunburns, but does it act ually work?

Continue reading to find out.

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.