The feeling of red, burning skin at the slightest touch is all too familiar in the early days of sun exposure. Sunburn is not just a temporary nuisance: it’s the first sign of the damage UV rays can inflict on the skin, even when the sun doesn’t seem particularly harsh. With a few targeted precautions – such as choosing the best times to be in the sun, staying hydrated, and adopting soothing post-beach habits – you can protect your skin and support its natural regeneration process.
What is sunburn?
Sunburn is a type of skin damage caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can harm even the deeper layers of the epidermis. Clinically, it falls under the broader category of thermal burns and is sometimes characterised by erythema (reddening), pain, or blistering. While it usually heals within a few days, repeated episodes can speed up the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Causes and symptoms of sunburn
Sunburn occurs when the amount of UV radiation exceeds the skin’s ability to produce protective melanin. Risk factors include:
● Fair skin type
● High altitude
● Reflective surfaces (water, snow, sand)
● Photosensitising medications
The first symptoms of sunburn usually appear within 2–6 hours of exposure. They include redness, heat, itching and swelling; in more severe cases, blisters may form and chills or fever may occur. Recurrent sunburn during childhood is a known risk factor for melanoma later in life.
Prevention: rules to avoid sunburn
Protecting yourself is far easier – and cheaper – than treating the damage. A few simple, consistent habits can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and more serious consequences. Here are the three fundamental pillars of prevention:
1. Best times for sun exposure
Avoid going outside in the two hours before and after solar noon to reduce UV intensity and thus the need for sunburn remedies. Opt for early mornings or late afternoons instead, especially between April and September.
2. Sun protection: how to choose and apply it
● Choose SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen.
● Apply generously (about 2 mg/cm²) 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
● Don’t forget lips, ears, and the tops of your feet – sunscreen is crucial in these areas.
3. Protective clothing and accessories
UPF 50+ fabrics, wide-brimmed hats and UV-filter sunglasses are invaluable allies. Unlike skincare products, clothing doesn’t “wear off” and reduces the need for sunburn remedies while on holiday.
H2 – Natural remedies for sunburn
When prevention fails, here are the most effective natural sunburn remedies supported by literature.
1. Aloe vera
Aloe gel, rich in aloin and polysaccharides, calms inflammation and speeds up skin regeneration. Applied fresh several times a day, it's an excellent remedy for mild sunburn.
2. Green tea compresses
Green tea catechins and polyphenols modulate pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing redness and swelling. Brew a concentrated infusion, let it cool, and apply pads soaked in it for 15 minutes, for an affordable and quick remedy for sunburn.
3. Plant oils (coconut, calendula, lavender)
● Extra virgin coconut oil: rich in MCT fatty acids, it improves hydration and strengthens the skin barrier.
● Calendula oil: the flavonoids aid the formation of new tissue.
● Diluted lavender essential oil (3 drops in 10 ml carrier oil): speeds up healing.
These are ideal sunburn remedies during the peeling phase.
4. CBD Oil: benefits and use
Topical cannabidiol has antioxidant, soothing and sebum-regulating effects. If your skin burns and feels tight despite the good practices adopted, try the synergy of Eusphera products: EU4SKIN cream and the hemp-based CBD oils (10%, 20%, 30%), all THC-free and designed for topical use.
● “Cool-down” step: After a lukewarm shower, apply EU4SKIN generously to red areas. The combination of CBD, hyaluronic acid, shea butter and calendula cools the skin in minutes and forms a protective film that limits dehydration.
● “Targeted booster” step: Dab 2–3 drops of CBD oil on the most inflamed areas: choose 10% for mild redness, 20% for more widespread irritation, 30% if the skin “burns” to the touch.
Cannabidiol interacts with the skin’s endocannabinoid receptors, modulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, while terpenes and omega-3s further enhance the antioxidant and soothing action. All these effects occur on the surface of the skin, so it is safe for repeated use. If blisters or a fever develop, stop using it and consult a doctor.
When to seek medical attention
Most sunburn remedies can treat mild discomfort, but medical help is needed if you experience extensive blistering, fever, chills, intense pain, or signs of infection or dehydration. If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, go to A&E or consult a dermatologist.
Remember: natural sunburn remedies do not replace medical advice in the event of complications. Prompt action reduces the risk of lasting effects on the skin, such as scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
