No, salt cannot remove sunburn; in fact, it can make it worse.
Why Salt Makes Sunburn Worse
According to the provided reference, salt water irritates the skin and aggravates the damage further caused by sunburn. This means that applying salt or being in salt water when you have a sunburn can increase the pain, inflammation, and overall discomfort.
Effects of Salt on Sunburned Skin:
- Irritation: Salt can cause further irritation to already sensitive and inflamed sunburned skin.
- Increased Damage: Instead of helping, salt water can worsen the existing damage from the sun.
- Pain Aggravation: The salt can lead to increased pain associated with the sunburn.
What To Do Instead of Using Salt for Sunburn:
Instead of using salt, consider these methods to treat sunburn:
- Pain Relief: Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation and pain. The reference specifically mentions that painkillers will help control swelling and pain and alleviate headaches that can result from sun exposure.
- Cool Compresses: Apply cool, damp cloths to the affected areas to help soothe the skin.
- Moisturizers: Use fragrance-free moisturizers and aloe vera to keep the skin hydrated and aid in healing.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, as sunburn can lead to dehydration.
| Issue | Salt Water Effect | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Sunburn Pain | Aggravated | Take pain relievers |
| Inflammation | Increased | Take pain relievers , cool compress |
| Healing | Delayed | Moisturize and stay hydrated |
Conclusion
Avoid salt water or applying salt directly on sunburned skin. Salt will further irritate the skin and cause more damage. Instead, use pain relievers and other methods to soothe the skin and allow it to heal properly.
