If you are planning on spending time outside in the sun, on a wonderful sunny day in summer, there is a risk of sun-damaged skin. It may be because you are not used to the ritual of applying sunscreen, you forget to bring it with you, or you find yourself surprised by the lack of shade in a space.
Repeated exposure to UV rays for long periods of time can lead to skin issues. These skin issues range from mild redness to severe sunburn, long term skin damage and other complications.
Understanding Sun Damage
Sun-damaged skin happens when UV rays penetrate the skin, causing harm at the cellular level. This can result in:
- Sunburn: Red, painful skin that feels hot to the touch.
- Premature Aging: Wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
- Hyperpigmentation: Dark spots and uneven skin tone.
- Skin Cancer: Long-term exposure increases the risk.
Preventing sun damage with sunscreen and protective clothing is essential, but when sunburn happens, natural remedies such as essential oils and carrier oils can offer relief to sun-damaged skin and aid in the healing process.
Essential Oils for Sun-Damaged Skin
When the skin is already damaged, it’s very important to use essential oils in small doses. Stick to 0.5 to 1% in your formulations. Pair it with one of the carrier oils mentioned below for maximum benefit.
1. Lavender Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender essential oil is a powerhouse, effective at helping us in a number of areas. It is soothing, and anti-inflammatory. It helps reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with sunburn. Its antimicrobial properties may prevent infections.
2. Chamomile Oil (German) (Matricaria recutita)
German chamomile oil is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects. It alleviates pain and soothes irritated skin, promoting faster healing.
3. Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Tea tree oil has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It helps prevent infection and reduces inflammation. However, it should be used sparingly and always diluted.
4. Helichrysum Oil (Helichrysum italicum)
Helichrysum essential oil is known for its skin regenerative properties and ability to combat fine lines and wrinkles. It promotes cell regeneration, reduces inflammation, and helps fade sunspots. This essential oil is very powerful and can be expensive. Only one or two drops is needed in formulations for helichrysum to do its work in helping sun-damaged skin.
5. Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita)
Known as a cooling oil when used in small amounts, peppermint oil has analgesic properties due to its high menthol content. It may provide a cooling sensation, which can help relieve the discomfort of sunburn. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling. Small amounts are key to avoid this remedy from being too intense.
6. Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha)
Myrrh oil is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which may help sun-damaged and aging skin. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its healing abilities. Myrrh essential oil helps repair damaged skin, reduces inflammation, and promotes the regeneration of healthy skin cells. Its moisturizing properties may help in preventing dryness and peeling associated with sunburn.
7. Yarrow Oil (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow oil is another powerful ingredient for sun-damaged skin. Known for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and analgesic properties, it has been used traditionally for its healing and skin-soothing capabilities. Yarrow oil may help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with sunburn, promote skin healing, and may prevent infection. Its soothing properties can also help calm irritated skin and reduce redness.
Essential oils are only part of the answer. Pairing them with carrier oils is your key to helping sun-damaged skin.
Carrier Oils for Sun-Damaged Skin
8. Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract)
If you are in the sun often, aloe vera gel is a great option to have around the house. Aloe vera is famous for its cooling and hydrating properties. It soothes burned skin, reduces inflammation, and may provide moisture. Aloe vera is aqueous, therefore, if you want to add essential oils to it you should also add a carrier oil, such as one listed below. Check out my skin soothing aloe vera DIY recipe here.
9. Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis)
Jojoba oil makes an excellent moisturizer. You may find it promotes in sun-damaged skin healing and reduces inflammation without clogging pores. Jojoba oil can be regenerative for the skin, helping to lock in moisture. Mix jojoba oil with essential oils or use alone to nourish sunburned skin.
10. Rosehip Seed Oil (Rosa Canina Fruit Oil)
Rich in vitamins A, E and C, rosehip seed oil is known for its skin regenerative properties. It may help to reduce hyperpigmentation while moisturizing the skin. It can be regenerative for the skin and may be particularly helpful in healing from UV ray exposure. Rosehip oil is an excellent ingredient to use in formulations for facial moisturizers.
11. Shea butter (Butyrospermum Parkii)
Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E, which provide antioxidant qualities, along with essential fatty acids and nutrients necessary for collagen production. It moisturizes and nourishes the skin, aiding in the repair of sun damage. Its anti-inflammatory and healing properties soothe irritation and reduce redness, while its rich texture provides a protective barrier to lock in moisture.
12. Calendula (Calendula Officinalis)
Calendula oil is an infused carrier using the flowers of the calendula plant. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing properties. It is highly effective in healing sun-damaged skin by reducing inflammation, soothing irritation, and promoting tissue regeneration. Calendula oil also hydrates and nourishes the skin, helping to prevent peeling and dryness.
13. Black seed oil (Nigella sativa)
Black seed oil has an impressive nutrient profile. Derived from the seeds of Nigella sativa, black seed oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. It has been valued for its therapeutic properties for centuries. Black seed oil helps repair sun-damaged skin by reducing inflammation, soothing irritation, and promoting skin regeneration. Its moisturizing properties also aid in preventing dryness and flaking. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties help protect the skin from infections.
Tips To Help You Avoid Sun-Damaged Skin
It’s important to take precautions throughout the summer to help avoid sunburn, such as using a tested and approved sunscreen. Some other tips to avoiding sunburn are:
- Put sunscreen in the glovebox of your car, or in your purse so that it is always with you
- Put a blanket or light sleeves in your car so that you can cover up if necessary
- Wear light sleeves such as linen to hinder the sun from touching the skin
- Wear a hat to help shade your face
- Use a moisturizer or foundation that contains SPF to double protect your skin
- Increase your water intake during the summer
You can soothe sun-damaged skin with natural ingredients, such as soothing carrier oils and skin supportive essential oils. Always do a patch test before applying any new product to a large area of skin.
You don’t have to wait for skin damage to occur. Using natural oils, butters and essential oils regularly can be a pleasant and effective way to nurture your skin, keeping it healthy, radiant and youthful.
Shop our line of skincare products formulated with these healing oils. Allow nature’s best ingredients to soothe your sun-kissed skin. Shop now to find the perfect blend for your needs, and discover a new favourite today.
