Soothing Sunburn with doTERRA Essential Oils

Soothing Sunburn with doTERRA Essential Oils

Donna Smith

Soothing Sunburn and Staying Sun-Safe with doTERRA Essential Oils

Sunburns can be an uncomfortable and painful reminder of too much time spent in the sun without adequate protection. While prevention is always the best approach, doTERRA essential oils can help soothe sunburned skin and support the body’s healing process. In this blog, we’ll explore how essential oils can be used to treat sunburn and share tips on staying sun-safe to avoid burns in the first place.

Understanding Sunburn

Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation, causing inflammation and damage. Common symptoms include redness, pain, swelling, and peeling. While natural remedies like essential oils can provide relief, it’s crucial to adopt preventive measures to protect your skin and overall health.

How to Stay Sun-Safe and Avoid Sunburn

  • Use Sunscreen Daily: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply generously to all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
  • Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Limit your sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Seek Shade: Stay under umbrellas, trees, or other shelters when outdoors for extended periods.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and resilient to UV damage.
  • Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation and increase the risk of skin cancer.
  • Incorporate Sun-Supportive Nutrition: Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, spinach, and nuts, can help protect the skin from UV damage.

Top doTERRA Essential Oils for Sunburn Relief

1. Lavender Essential Oil

  • Benefits: Lavender is well-known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for calming sunburned skin.
  • How to Use: Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil or aloe vera gel and gently apply to the affected area. Repeat as needed for relief.

2. Peppermint Essential Oil

  • Benefits: Peppermint provides a cooling sensation and helps reduce discomfort associated with sunburn.
  • How to Use: Mix a few drops with aloe vera and apply to the skin for instant cooling.

3. Frankincense Essential Oil

  • Benefits: Frankincense supports skin regeneration and reduces inflammation, helping the skin heal faster.
  • How to Use: Add 2–3 drops to a carrier oil and gently massage onto sunburned skin.

4. Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

  • Benefits: Chamomile soothes irritation and promotes skin repair.
  • How to Use: Mix with a carrier oil or add to a lukewarm bath to soothe the skin.

5. Tea Tree Essential Oil

  • Benefits: Tea Tree has antimicrobial properties that can prevent infection in damaged skin.
  • How to Use: Dilute well with a carrier oil before applying to avoid further irritation.

6. Helichrysum Essential Oil

  • Benefits: Helichrysum supports skin renewal and reduces redness.
  • How to Use: Combine with a carrier oil and gently pat onto the sunburned area.

DIY Sunburn Relief Spray

Create a natural sunburn relief spray with essential oils for quick and easy application.

  • Ingredients:
  • 1 cup aloe vera juice
  • 1 teaspoon Fractionated Coconut Oil
  • 5 drops Lavender essential oil
  • 3 drops Peppermint essential oil
  • 2 drops Frankincense essential oil

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle.
  2. Shake well before use.
  3. Spray onto sunburned skin as needed for relief.

Using doTERRA Essential Oils for Sun Protection

While essential oils should not replace sunscreen, some oils can support the skin when combined with proper sun protection measures:

  • Helichrysum: Helps the skin recover from minor sun damage.
  • Tea Tree: Keeps skin clean and refreshed after a day in the sun.

Note: Always apply sunscreen as your primary defence against UV rays.

Safety Tips for Using Essential Oils on Sunburn

  • Dilute Properly: Essential oils are potent and should always be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin, especially on sensitive sunburned areas.
  • Avoid Photosensitive Oils: Citrus oils, such as Lemon and Wild Orange, can increase sun sensitivity and should not be applied before sun exposure.
  • Patch Test: Test diluted oils on a small area of skin to ensure no adverse reactions.
  • Store Oils Properly: Keep essential oils in a cool, dark place to maintain their potency.

Conclusion

doTERRA essential oils provide a natural and effective way to soothe sunburned skin and promote healing. From calming inflammation with Lavender to cooling relief with Peppermint, these oils can help you recover quickly and comfortably. However, prevention is always the best approach—stay sun-safe by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade.

By incorporating doTERRA oils into your wellness routine, you can care for your skin while enjoying the great outdoors responsibly. Protect, prevent, and soothe—your skin will thank you!

Back to blog