10 Best Herbal Baths For Sunburn

Herbal baths can be a soothing and effective remedy for relieving sunburn symptoms by providing gentle cooling and moisturizing effects.

Herbs such as lavender, chamomile, and calendula are commonly used because they possess anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help reduce redness and irritation. To prepare an herbal bath, simply steep a handful of dried herbs in hot water and then add the infused water to a warm bath, allowing the skin to soak for 15 to 20 minutes. This natural approach not only helps ease discomfort but also promotes skin healing without the use of harsh chemicals.

Incorporating herbal baths into a sunburn care routine can offer a calming and holistic way to recover from overexposure to the sun.

1. Aloe barbadensis

Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, is widely used in herbal baths to soothe and heal sunburned skin.

The gel from the aloe plant contains anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties that help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with sunburn. When used in a bath, aloe vera can provide a cooling effect, offering immediate relief to irritated skin. It also helps to rehydrate the skin and promote faster recovery by supporting the skin's natural healing process.

For best results, it is recommended to use fresh aloe gel or a high-quality aloe-based bath product to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.

2. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, is a versatile herbal remedy commonly used in herbal baths to soothe and heal sunburned skin.

Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help reduce redness, irritation, and infection risk in sun-damaged skin. To prepare a calendula bath, steep dried calendula flowers in boiling water for 10–15 minutes, then strain the liquid and add it to warm bath water. Soaking in this herbal bath for 15–20 minutes can provide relief and promote skin recovery.

While calendula baths are generally safe, individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should use caution and consult a healthcare provider before use.

3. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to soothe and heal sunburned skin.

The plant contains compounds like hypericin and flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce redness and irritation. To prepare a St. John's Wort bath, a few tablespoons of dried herb can be steeped in hot water and then added to a warm bath. Soaking in this bath for 15 to 20 minutes can provide relief and promote skin recovery.

However, it is important to note that St. John's Wort may interact with certain medications, so consulting a healthcare professional before use is advisable.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a gentle herbal remedy that can be used in baths to soothe and heal sunburned skin.

Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation caused by sun exposure. To prepare a chamomile bath, steep a handful of dried chamomile flowers in boiling water for about 10 minutes, then strain the liquid and add it to a warm bath. Soaking in this herbal bath for 15 to 20 minutes can provide relief and promote skin healing.

However, it is important to ensure the water temperature is comfortable and not too hot to avoid further irritation.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often used in herbal baths to soothe and heal sunburned skin.

The soothing properties of lavender oil help reduce inflammation and redness associated with sunburn by calming the skin's inflammatory response. When added to warm water, lavender creates a relaxing and therapeutic bath that can provide relief from the discomfort of sunburn. Its calming aroma also has a positive effect on mood and stress, enhancing the overall healing experience.

For best results, it is recommended to use lavender-infused bath products or add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the bathwater for maximum benefit.

6. Rosa canina

Rosa canina, also known as rosehip, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to soothe and heal sunburned skin.

Its high concentration of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants makes it particularly effective in repairing damaged skin and reducing inflammation. When used in herbal baths, rosehip can help to cool the skin, alleviate pain, and promote faster recovery from sunburn. To prepare a rosehip bath, simply steep dried rosehip fruits in hot water and add the infusion to a warm bath, allowing the skin to absorb the beneficial compounds.

Regular use of rosa canina baths can provide natural relief and support the skin’s natural healing process after sun exposure.

7. Equisetum arvense

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as horsetail, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to soothe and heal sunburned skin due to its high concentration of silica and anti-inflammatory properties.

When infused into warm water, horsetail can help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation associated with sunburn by promoting skin repair and hydration. Its astringent qualities may also help tighten pores and prevent further moisture loss from damaged skin. To prepare an effective bath, steep a handful of dried horsetail in boiling water for 15-20 minutes, then add the liquid to a warm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes.

While horsetail baths can offer relief, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using them, especially for severe sunburns or if you have known allergies to plants in the Equisetum family.

8. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to soothe and heal sunburned skin.

The plant contains anti-inflammatory and cooling properties that can help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with sunburn. To prepare a nettle bath, fresh or dried leaves are boiled and then infused into warm water, allowing the beneficial compounds to infuse into the liquid. Soaking in this herbal bath for 15 to 30 minutes can provide relief and promote skin recovery by calming irritation and encouraging healing.

However, it is important to ensure that the water is not too hot and to avoid direct contact with the raw leaves to prevent further skin irritation.

9. Paeonia suffruticosa

Paeonia suffruticosa, commonly known as the tree peony, has been traditionally used in herbal baths for its soothing and healing properties, particularly for treating sunburn.

The plant contains various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and essential oils, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help reduce redness and irritation caused by sun exposure. To prepare a herbal bath, the dried flowers of Paeonia suffruticosa can be steeped in warm water, creating a calming and nourishing soak that promotes skin recovery. This natural remedy is often preferred for its gentle yet effective approach to alleviating sunburn symptoms without the use of harsh chemicals.

Incorporating Paeonia suffruticosa into a sunburn relief routine can offer a holistic and soothing alternative for those seeking natural skincare solutions.

10. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal baths for its soothing and healing properties, particularly for relieving sunburn.

When infused into bath water, sage provides a calming effect that helps reduce inflammation and redness associated with sun-exposed skin. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds in sage, such as rosmarinic acid, can aid in the skin's recovery process and prevent infection. To prepare a sage bath, simply steep fresh or dried sage leaves in hot water for several minutes before adding it to a warm bath.

Using sage-infused baths regularly can offer natural relief and promote skin rejuvenation after sunburn.