If your skin is exposed to too much UV rays, it can cause sunburn. People often swear to aloe vera for sunburn treatment. But does that work?
Stepping inside without wearing sunscreen is not helpful for your skin. So enslaving sunscreen from head to toe is a great way to actually protect your skin. However, it may forget to wear it, or cover your arms, neck, and face. Within hours, your skin may feel hot on touch, which can be red and painful. These are just some of the symptoms of sunburn, which occurs when you are in the sun for a long time. If you’re all using home remedies, try Aloe Vera for sunburn treatment. It may help reduce inflammation and relieve sunburn.
What is sunburn?
This is an inflammatory skin reaction that occurs when the skin is usually exposed to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. “Ultraviolet rays can damage the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) in the skin, causing inflammation and irritation,” says Dr. Shwetamishura, a cosmetic and aesthetic surgeon.

Mild sunburns can cause redness, pain and discomfort, but more serious burns can lead to fierce burns and skin damage that can last for a long time. “It can also cause long-term consequences such as early skin aging, wrinkles and an increased risk of skin cancer, as it repeatedly damages skin cells over time,” experts say. Each year, more than a third of the population experiences sunburn, according to a study published in Statpearls in 2023.
“UV rays are very strong between 10am and 4pm, and during these times the sun’s rays become more direct and intense, which makes it easier for exposed skin to burn,” the experts say.
Aloe Vera for Sunburn: I know how it helps
Using aloe vera for sunburn treatment may be effective. Burns: Journal of the International Society for the Burn Diries Society of the Burn injuries are beneficial for healing mild to moderate sunburn. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a moisturizer made up of aloe vera helps soothe your tanned skin. It can be applied to your skin whenever you are still wet from the bath or whenever you feel pain or discomfort.
Here’s how this can help:
- It is loaded with nutrients: “Aloe vera for sunburn treatment is a good idea because it contains a variety of nutrients including vitamins A, C and E. It also has antioxidants and amino acids that can help repair damaged skin and reduce inflammation,” says Dr. Mishra. Green aloe vera plant gels have a cooling effect that can quickly provide relief from burning heat caused by sunburn.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: “It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness, swelling and discomfort by soothing the skin,” experts say.
- Moisturizes the skin: Because sunburn causes dehydration of skin cells, it helps rehydrate the skin by trapping moisture, which is very important in the recovery process. “Aloe vera can help improve recovery faster because it promotes skin healing at the cellular level,” experts say.
How to use aloe vera for sunburn treatment?
Want to use aloe vera for sunburn treatment? It can be used in a variety of shapes and combinations based on the type of skin.
1. For dry skin
“Gels are great hydrating agents, but when combined with moisturizing oils like coconut oil and olive oil, they can provide deeper hydration,” says the expert. Mix fresh aloe vera gel with a few drops of coconut oil and apply generously to the tanned area. “This can be done two or three times a day to ensure that your skin has sufficient moisture and relief from the dryness caused by burns,” says Dr. Mishra.
2. For oily skin
If you have oily skin, it is important to avoid heavy oil, so use pure aloe vera for sun treatment with oily oil. “If necessary, the gel can be mixed with a few drops of tea tree oil, as its antibacterial properties can reduce the risk of infection on damaged skin,” the expert says.
3. For sensitive skin
Gels are usually gentle on sensitive skin, but it is important to make sure there are no added scents or chemicals. For sun treatment, use pure aloe vera and mix with chamomile tea. “It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe your skin and even soothe your skin,” says the expert.

What are the side effects of using aloe vera for sunburn treatment?
Although it is considered safe for most people, using aloe vera for sunburn treatment has side effects.
- Some people may develop irritation or rash, especially if the gel contains additional fragrances or chemicals.
- If you are allergic to aloe vera, you may experience itching, redness, swelling, or even a hive box in the affected area.
- In rare cases, gels can cause contact dermatitis, leading to skin inflammation, redness, and blisters.
If you experience any of the side effects, stop using aloe vera for sunburn treatment and consult your doctor. Therefore, patch testing is extremely important, especially if you are new to aloe vera for sunburn treatment.
Related FAQs
Can I use aloe vera gel in the sunlight?
Aloe vera offers many healing benefits, but does not provide protection from UV rays. Applying aloe vera gel before or during exposure to sunlight makes the skin more sensitive to UV rays, which can worsen the sunburn and cause irritation. Aloe vera should calm the skin and promote healing once it is gone after exposure to the sun.
What quickly heals your tan?
To accelerate the tan healing process, take a cool shower or use cold compression to reduce heat and soothe your skin. Avoid hot water as it can worsen your burns. Aloe vera can be applied to provide immediate cooling and hydration.