Natural Remedies for Summer Bummers: Sunburn & Bug Bites

It’s that time of year. Long hours spent in the sun that leads to evenings by a bonfire mean the inevitable return of sunburn, bug bites, and other summer bummers. Unfortunately, many of the products often used to combat these maladies include toxic chemicals. Considering our skin is the largest organ of the human body, we need to be conscious of what we put on it. This summer, try one of these natural remedies to combat the notorious summer bummers. What’s your trick for sunburn and bug bite relief? We want to know!

BUG BITES

1. Itch-relieving baking soda (via StyleMePretty): make a paste using ¼ cup apple cider vinegar and ¼ cup baking soda. Add a few drops of a soothing essential oil (we recommend using lavender) and apply directly to bug bites
2. Oatmeal - sounds crazy, but oatmeal actually contains special compounds that have anti-irritant qualities. Make your own oatmeal paste by combining equal amounts of oatmeal and water, mixing until you have a spackle-like substance. Next, spoon some paste onto a washcloth and apply paste-side to irritated skin for up to 10 minutes.
3. Ice - cold temperatures and ice are known to reduce inflammation, numbing the skin and offering quick, short-term relief. The Mayo Clinic suggests applying a cold pack or crushed ice directly to a mosquito bite to relieve the urge to itch. Be sure to limit application time to 5 minutes, as any longer can cause skin damage.

SUNBURN RELIEF

1. Aloe vera - a common household plant, aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of ailments including sunburn and bug bites. To apply, cut open a small section of an aloe plant and apply the gel to the infected area. The gel should provide immediate relief, soothing the skin. Apply again as needed.
2. Baking soda - fill a cool-temperature bath and add 1-2 cups of baking soda, and soak for 15-20 minutes to help minimize sun damage. For additional relief, try adding a cup of oats to the bath. The oats will help relieve irritation and allow the skin to retain its natural moisture. Afterward, avoid scrubbing or rubbing your skin, dabbing yourself dry with a towel.
3. Chamomile tea - not only known for soothing one’s spirit, chamomile tea can also be used to soothe sunburned skin. Brew the tea as you normally would and allow it to cool. When it’s ready, soak a washcloth in the tea and apply directly to the affected area.
4. Cooling lotion: combine ½ cup coconut oil, 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel, and 12 drops of essential oil for cooling, anti-inflammatory relief
5. Apple cider vinegar - known for providing pain relief, apple cider vinegar is a great option for treating sunburn. To try, use a cotton ball to lightly apply apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar) to the burnt area.

This summer, don’t fret when the inevitable sunburn or bug bites appear and give one of these natural remedies a go! Skip the chemical-filled options, and show your body the love it deserves.