Natural ways to repair sun damaged skin

Years in the sun can take a toll on anyone’s appearance, especially baby boomers who didn’t always wear sunscreen when they were younger. Now you may be seeing sun spots, dark or red patches and other types of sun damage.

Don’t worry though, there are ways you can repair them at home with these simple natural remedies.

Of course, if any of your sun damage worries you, it’s best to see your doctor.

Here’s our top tips.

Sunburn

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a tried and tested sunburn remedy thanks to its calmative and reparative properties. All you need to do is locate an aloe vera plant and break off one of the ‘leaves’. Apply this directly and as often as you need to see a reduction in your burn.

Green tea

This can protect against sunburn in the first place, but will help also help promote wound healing and skin regeneration because it is an anti-inflammatory. Simple brew a pot of green tea and let it cool. Soak a clean cloth in the tea, and use it as a compress for sunburned areas.

Under eye sun damage

Rose water

The rejuvenating features of rose water are very effective in soothing the area. Just apply cotton balls soaked in rose water on closed eyes for 15 minutes or so.

Witch hazel

Witch hazel contains chemicals called tannins which, when applied to directly to the skin, can help reduce swelling, repair damaged skin, and ward off nasty bacteria. You’ll most likely find witch hazel in a liquid extract form, which is simply distilled from the dried leaves, bark, and twigs of the plant.

Soak cotton balls in witch hazel and place on your under eye area. Leave for 10 minutes or so.

Sun spots

Olive oil

Olive oil has a plethora of uses with one being a great skin nourisher. It is also high in vitamin E, which also gets rid of sun spots. Simply apply to the area once a day and rub in like you would moisturiser.

Orange and apple cider vinegar

The power of the citrus in the orange helps to lighten dark spots. Mix one teaspoon of orange juice with two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and then use a clean cotton ball to put this mixture on your age spots before you go to bed.

Redness

Cucumber mask

The coolness of cucumber will help to counteract the heat from the redness. Cut up a cucumber into slices and chill it in the fridge, then apply to your face. Leave for half an hour and rinse with cold water.

Oats

Oats sooth and reduce redness, itching and is well known for its ability to calm skin. Mix the oats with water and apply. Leave on for 20 minutes and wash off.

Prevention

It is not too late to use protection when you go out in the sun. You may already have sun damage but to prevent more or exacerbating what you do have, always wear sunscreen. Look for mineral based (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), chemical-free, broad spectrum sun protection.

Share your thoughts or other tips below.