DIY Beauty Fridays: The Sunburn Cure

Last Friday I discussed sunscreen and the importance of wearing it.  Today's post, however, is what to do when your skin is lobster pink from not wearing any.

We're all familiar with Aloe and how it's supposed to cool your burned skin and prevent the burn from becoming a peeling mess.  I don't know about your feelings on this product but as soothing as aloe can be when first applied, it becomes a big ol' sticky mess very soon after.  Not only that but my clothes stick to the aloe making for a very painful peel.  (aka ripping a band-aid off a tender spot.)  Either way, the aloe experience is not always a pleasant one. 

Which is why you should switch to black tea.

Photo courtesy of bodywonders.com

Treating a Sunburn With Black Tea 

8 black tea bags (any kind will do)

5 cups hot water 

Big bowl 

I tried this two different ways: One, with hot water and two, with cold water.  Though it's easier to use cold water as it eliminates the cooling period, the tea takes way longer to steep.  Steep the tea bags in 5 cups of lukewarm-hot water (in the bowl) for about 7 minutes.  (The darker the tea the better.)  Once steeped, place the bowl in the fridge to let cool.  Once cool, soak a rag in the tea and spread on burned skin.  Continue to do this until all tea is gone.

This is one of the best, cheapest and easiest treatments around and it actually works.  Will it prevent you from peeling?  NO, but that's what you get for not wearing sunscreen.  (Ha, sorry, I'm such an advocate for sunscreen.)  Give it a whirl and let me know what you think.

Happy Friday!