Does Epsom salt help sunburn and how to prevent it? Find out the answers in this short and informative article!
Epsom salt, alias magnesium sulfate or bath salt, is an affordable and excellent therapeutic remedy for many health ailments. This bitter and unsavory salt was first discovered in the Epsom town of Surrey, England, hence the name. Besides a healing agent, it’s an impeccable bathroom cleaner too. But, Does Epsom Salt Help Sunburn? Let’s find out below.
What Is Sunburn?
Overexposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, sun lamps, and tanning beds for an extended period of time results in sunburn. Furthermore, repeated contact with UV rays develops wrinkles, dark spots, and other skin issues.
What Are the Symptoms of Sunburn?
Unlike the fire burn, sunburn does not surface immediately and takes 4 hours to appear after sun exposure. People having mild to moderate sunburn can experience the following symptoms:
- Swelling
- Soreness and tenderness
- Red, inflamed, itchy skin
In severe sunburn cases, symptoms are:
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Fluid-filled blisters
How Long Does Sunburn Last?
Sunburn usually subsides within a week or two. However, its duration varies case by case basis.
- Mild Sunburn settles down within 3 days.
- Moderate sunburn remains for up to 3-5 days.
- Severe sunburn stays for more than 7 days.
Does Epsom Salt Help Sunburn?
Epsom salt is effective against sunburn, thanks to its anti-inflammatory activity. This hack alleviates discomfort and reduces the irritation associated with sunburn. However, this home remedy is ideal only for very mild cases of sunburn. If you have a severe one, getting treatment from a physician is highly recommended.
What You’ll Need
- Two Tbsps of Epsom Salt
- A Cup of Water
- Empty Spray Bottle
- A Mixing Bowl
Directions
- Combine two tbsps of Epsom salt and a cup of water into a bowl.
- Empty the prepared solution into a clean spray bottle and shake a bit.
- Next, mist the mix on the sunburn-affected area.
- Redo this method twice a day until the sunburn is gone for good.
Note-Â Alternatively, you can take an Epsom salt bath by pouring two cups of salt into your bathtub. Soak for 15-20 minutes, and you’re done. Repeat this process daily to notice positive results.
Sunburn Prevention Tips
Before going outside on hot sunny days, follow these quick tips to prevent sunburn.
- Don’t go outside between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to avoid sunburn on sunny days.
- If you have to go outdoors, always carry a Boonie hat, long-sleeved clothing, and sunglasses.
- Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above.
- Use sunscreen at least 25-30 minutes prior to leaving your house.
- Reuse the sunscreen after every two hours and next to swimming, exercising, or heavy sweating.
- Don’t overuse the tanning bed.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek immediate medical attention if the sunburn is accompanied by:
- Blisters covering a large part of your body
- Dehydration
- High fever
- Acute pain that remains more than 48 hours
- Rapid pulse
- Chills
- Infection in blisters
While sunburn is a temporary condition, some of its effects can cause permanent damage to your skin. If the sunburn does not respond to the Epsom salt within 1-2 days, consult a dermatologist promptly.