Tan and Toasted

Now that we're getting into the hotter half of summer, days in the sun are becoming the norm for many. Whether it's taking a dip in the pool, tanning at the beach, or just enjoying the nature in your own backyard, the sun is bound to get you. Some people are blessed with the ability to tan easily and evenly. Then you have vampires, like me, who just burn. My worst was earlier this year at a 12 hour, outdoor music festival, Laneway. Oh the horrible, painful days following...
There are many products on the market advertised as a panacea to the effects of sunburn, but I have yet to find one that is more effective than mother nature's own remedies. Here are three simple and natural at-home treatments to help soothe your burns. As every one's bodies are different, keep in mind that these remedies might not be quite as effective for you as they were for me.

Apple Cider Vinegar

What? Vinegar?! Yes, vinegar. It will help to ease the pain, itching and the inflammation that follows a sunburn. The acetic acid in the vinegar is also found in Aspirin and other medications.
Grab a spray bottle and fill it with two parts apple cider vinegar and one part water. Spray the solution onto the affected areas after a cool/warm shower. The vinegar will dry without a scent. Just remember to reapply this every few hours or whenever the burning sensation returns. For the more sensitive areas of your body, such as your face, soak cotton balls instead.

Milk

While you're cooling down your body with shakes and ice cream, you can also use the milk to calm those burns. Milk contains lactic acid which will soothe the burning sensation (also great after spicy foods!) and reduce the redness.
Soak a washcloth in milk and wring it out. Leave it on the affected areas for about 10 minutes and then reapply as needed. For your face, you can buy a paper sheet face mask and soak it in milk.

Aloe

My favourite remedy has to be hands down aloe. It's packed with healing properties and works every time. The aloe vera facilitates cell regeneration, allowing your skin to heal faster. Aloe also contains active compounds that alleviate inflammation and hinder infections. My mother and I use aloe so often that we even have a giant aloe plant on our balcony. When ever I get burnt, by the sun or the oven, I simply cut myself a fresh slice of aloe. I mash it up in a mortar and pestle to a pulp, then slather the mixture generously onto the affected area, not rubbing it in completely. The cooling sensation is immediate and after constant use, you will notice the difference.

Hopefully these remedies will work for you! Have you ever been badly sun burnt before?
-Iz