10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Sunburn

Herbal essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, and peppermint are often used for their soothing and cooling properties, making them popular for alleviating sunburn symptoms.

These oils can help reduce inflammation, ease pain, and promote skin healing when diluted properly and applied topically. However, it is important to avoid direct application of undiluted essential oils on the skin, as they can cause irritation or further damage. A carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil is typically recommended to safely dilute the essential oils before use.

While these natural remedies can offer relief, they should not replace medical treatment for severe sunburn, and it is always best to seek professional advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

1. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is a popular herb used to produce essential oils that are widely recognized for their soothing and healing properties.

The essential oil derived from this plant contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making it beneficial for treating sunburn. When applied topically, lavender essential oil can help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with sunburn by promoting skin regeneration and calming irritation. It is often diluted with a carrier oil before application to avoid skin sensitivity.

Due to its calming aroma, lavender essential oil not only provides physical relief but also offers a relaxing effect, aiding in the overall recovery process from sunburn.

2. Aloe barbadensis

Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, is widely recognized for its soothing properties when used in the form of essential oils for sunburn relief.

The essential oils derived from aloe vera contain compounds such as aloin and aucubin, which have anti-inflammatory and cooling effects that can help reduce redness and irritation caused by sun exposure. These oils also possess antimicrobial properties that may prevent infections in damaged skin. When applied topically, aloe vera essential oils can provide a calming effect, promoting skin healing and hydration.

However, it is important to dilute the essential oils properly with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation and ensure safe usage.

3. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, commonly known as pot marigold, is a flowering plant widely used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Its essential oil, extracted through steam distillation, contains compounds like alpha-bergamot and beta-caryophyllene, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. When applied topically, calendula essential oil can help alleviate the pain and redness associated with sunburn by reducing inflammation and promoting skin healing. However, it is important to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil before application to avoid skin irritation.

While calendula essential oil may offer some relief for sunburn, it should not replace proper sun protection measures such as sunscreen and shade.

4. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, produces an essential oil that is often used for its aromatic and therapeutic properties.

While rosemary essential oil is not a direct treatment for sunburn, it can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation when diluted properly. The oil contains compounds like camphor and rosmarinic acid, which may provide a cooling effect and promote healing. It is important to note that undiluted rosemary essential oil can be irritating, so it should always be mixed with a carrier oil before application.

For effective relief from sunburn, it is recommended to use products containing aloe vera or calendula alongside rosemary essential oil for best results.

5. Chamomilla recutita

Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as German chamomile, is a popular herb used in the production of essential oils that are often touted for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

While it is widely used for skin conditions such as eczema and minor burns, its effectiveness for treating sunburn specifically remains a topic of debate among herbalists and dermatologists. Some studies suggest that chamomile essential oil may help reduce redness and irritation associated with sunburn due to its high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds like bisabolol. However, it is important to note that essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin without proper dilution, as they can cause irritation or allergic reactions.

For sunburn relief, it is generally recommended to use a combination of cool compresses, aloe vera, and over-the-counter pain relievers, with chamomile essential oil being a supplementary option under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

6. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a herb that has been traditionally used for its calming and soothing properties.

While it is not typically used as a primary treatment for sunburn, its essential oil may offer some relief due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. When diluted properly, melissa officinalis essential oil can be applied topically to help reduce redness and irritation associated with sunburn. However, it is important to note that it should never be used undiluted, as it can cause skin irritation.

For effective sunburn relief, it is recommended to combine melissa essential oil with other cooling and healing ingredients, and to always prioritize sun protection to prevent burns in the first place.

7. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, produces an essential oil that is often used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

While it is not a direct treatment for sunburn, chamomile essential oil can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with sunburn by reducing redness and inflammation. This oil contains compounds like bisabolol and chamazulene, which have been shown to have calming and healing effects on the skin. When diluted properly with a carrier oil, it can be applied topically to soothe burned skin and promote healing.

However, it is important to note that chamomile essential oil should not be used as a substitute for proper sun protection or medical treatment for severe sunburn.

8. Vitex agnus-castus

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, is a traditional herbal plant that has been used for centuries for its various medicinal properties.

While it is primarily known for its use in women's health, some essential oils derived from this plant may offer potential benefits for skin care, including relief from sunburn. The essential oil of vitex agnus-castus contains compounds such as linalool and geraniol, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that may help reduce redness and irritation caused by sunburn. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific research specifically on the effectiveness of vitex essential oils for sunburn treatment.

As with any essential oil, it should be diluted properly and used with caution to avoid skin irritation or adverse reactions.

9. Equisetum arvense

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail, contains herbal essential oils that have been traditionally used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

These oils are rich in silica, which can help strengthen skin tissues and promote healing. While not a direct treatment for sunburn, the essential oils derived from Equisetum arvense may offer soothing relief when applied topically. They can help reduce redness and irritation associated with sunburn by calming the skin’s inflammatory response.

However, it is important to dilute these oils properly before use to avoid skin irritation and ensure safe application.

10. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, commonly known as Australian tea tree oil, is a popular herbal essential oil that is often used for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

While it is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating skin infections and acne, it is not typically recommended for use on sunburned skin due to its potential to cause further irritation. The strong, camphor-like scent of eucalyptus globulus can be overwhelming and may exacerbate the discomfort associated with sunburn. Instead, gentler essential oils such as lavender or chamomile are generally preferred for soothing sunburn symptoms.

For severe sunburn, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional rather than relying solely on essential oils.