Do Bananas Help Sunburn?
While a whole banana won't directly treat a sunburn, banana peels may offer some soothing relief. This is due to the anti-inflammatory properties of proteins found within the peel. These properties are similar to those found in aloe vera, a common sunburn remedy.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Proteins in banana peels possess anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce redness and irritation associated with sunburn. This is supported by multiple sources [1, 2].
- Cooling effect: The cool temperature of a refrigerated banana peel can provide temporary relief from the burning sensation.
- First Aid Application: Some sources suggest applying the inside of the banana peel directly to the sunburned area for temporary relief from itching [3].
Important Considerations
- Not a replacement for proper treatment: Banana peels should not be considered a primary treatment for sunburn. Severe sunburns require medical attention.
- Limited scientific evidence: While anecdotal evidence suggests potential benefits, further research is needed to fully understand the efficacy of banana peels in sunburn treatment.
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals might experience allergic reactions to banana peels. A small patch test is recommended before widespread application.
Other Effective Sunburn Treatments
Many effective sunburn treatments are readily available, including:
- Aloe vera-based products: These offer cooling and soothing effects [4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10].
- Cool compresses: Applying cool, damp cloths can reduce inflammation and pain [11].
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
Remember to always prioritize sun protection to prevent sunburns in the first place.
[1] These Foods Can Help Alleviate Sunburn | HuffPost Life: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/food-face-sunburn-relief_l_649c302fe4b0ea75fd3b0046
[2] Surprisingly, proteins found in banana peels may work to heal the skin through its anti-inflammatory properties, which is also found in cooling products we use on our skin after sunburns, such as aloe vera.03-Jul-2023
[3] 23 Banana Peel Uses: For Skin Care, Hair Health, First Aid, and More: https://www.healthline.com/health/banana-peel-uses
[4] All Products – Banana Boat US: https://www.bananaboat.com/collections/all-products
[5] Banana Boat® Soothing Aloe After Sun Gel 16oz – Banana Boat US: https://www.bananaboat.com/products/banana-boat-soothing-aloe-after-sun-gel-16oz
[6] Banana Boat Soothing After Sun Aloe Gel, 16oz, Skin Care Relief for ...: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Banana-Boat-Soothing-After-Sun-Gel-With-Aloe-16oz-Cooling-Gel-Aloe/10533319
[7] Banana Boat Soothing After Sun Gel with Aloe Twin ... - Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Banana-Boat-Relief-Friendly-Ounces/dp/B08Q2YTSG1
[8] After Sun Lotion: Cooling Aloe Vera Lotion for Sunburn | Sun Bum: https://www.sunbum.com/products/after-sun-cool-down-lotion
[9] How To Treat and Relieve Sunburn: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sunburn-relief
[10] How to treat a child's sunburn - Harvard Health: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-to-treat-a-childs-sunburn-2018070314178
[11] 5 Research-Backed Foods to Help Heal a Sunburn: https://www.verywellhealth.com/foods-to-help-heal-sunburn-5441640
