Sunburns: natural remedies and the evidence behind them
21 natural approaches to Sunburns, graded by evidence — including Astaxanthin, Polypodium leucotomos (leaf extract) and Coriander Seed.
21 options2 graded B1 graded C18 traditional or ungraded
B
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Oral antioxidant shown to raise the skin's sunburn threshold
Why it may be relevant
For building resilience before sun exposure, this oral carotenoid antioxidant has been shown in a human trial to help skin tolerate more UV before it reddens.
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 9 weeks of oral astaxanthin (4 mg daily) raised the minimal erythema dose and reduced UV-related moisture loss, pointing to better sun tolerance. It complements, and does not replace, sunscreen.
Dose or use 4 mg daily (the dose used in the trial) with a meal containing fat; follow product labeling.
Key study Randomized Controlled Trial (2018, PMID 29941810): The Protective Role of Astaxanthin for UV-Induced Skin Deterioration in Healthy People - A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nine weeks of 4 mg/day astaxanthin increased the minimal erythema dose versus placebo in 23 healthy adults.
EvidenceSupported by smaller clinical studies · Centuries of traditional useTime to resultsTaken daily for several weeks before sun exposureTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May cause mild digestive upset or, at high doses, a harmless orange skin tint; not a replacement for sunscreen.
Oral photoprotection shown to raise the skin's sunburn threshold
Why it may be relevant
Taken daily before sun exposure, this fern-leaf extract has been shown in human trials to raise the amount of UV your skin can absorb before it reddens - a good fit for building resilience ahead of time.
In a randomized human trial, 30 days of oral Polypodium leucotomos (about 480 mg daily) raised the minimal erythema dose - the amount of UV needed to redden skin - by roughly 26 percent, so skin tolerated more sun before burning. Use it alongside, not instead of, sunscreen.
Dose or use Trials used about 480 mg daily for several weeks before sun exposure; follow product labeling and consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Randomized Controlled Trial (2026, PMID 41838346): Changes in ultraviolet a radiation-induced thymidine dimers and erythema after oral nicotinamide or polypodium leucotomos extract in healthy volunteers: a randomized intraindividual trial. Oral Polypodium leucotomos raised the minimal erythema dose by about 26 percent versus baseline; it did not measurably reduce UV-induced DNA damage.
EvidenceSupported by smaller clinical studies · Centuries of traditional useTime to resultsTaken daily for about 4 weeks before sun exposureTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Not a replacement for sunscreen; consult a practitioner if pregnant or on medications.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Topical antioxidant against UV damage
Why it may be relevant
As part of building UV resilience, topical green tea extract offers antioxidant support the library links to photoprotection against UV rays.
The library notes it provides photoprotection against UV rays; its EGCG polyphenols are traditionally used for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory skin support.
Dose or use Apply a green-tea-extract serum or cream to exposed skin as directed; pair with, rather than replace, sunscreen.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsBest used consistently over weeks alongside sun protectionTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: For external use only; patch test first if you have sensitive skin.
Oral antioxidant shown to raise the skin's sunburn threshold
Why it may be relevant
For building resilience before sun exposure, this oral carotenoid antioxidant has been shown in a human trial to help skin tolerate more UV before it reddens.
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 9 weeks of oral astaxanthin (4 mg daily) raised the minimal erythema dose and reduced UV-related moisture loss, pointing to better sun tolerance. It complements, and does not replace, sunscreen.
Dose or use 4 mg daily (the dose used in the trial) with a meal containing fat; follow product labeling.
Key study Randomized Controlled Trial (2018, PMID 29941810): The Protective Role of Astaxanthin for UV-Induced Skin Deterioration in Healthy People - A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nine weeks of 4 mg/day astaxanthin increased the minimal erythema dose versus placebo in 23 healthy adults.
EvidenceSupported by smaller clinical studies · Centuries of traditional useTime to resultsTaken daily for several weeks before sun exposureTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May cause mild digestive upset or, at high doses, a harmless orange skin tint; not a replacement for sunscreen.
Oral photoprotection shown to raise the skin's sunburn threshold
Why it may be relevant
Taken daily before sun exposure, this fern-leaf extract has been shown in human trials to raise the amount of UV your skin can absorb before it reddens - a good fit for building resilience ahead of time.
In a randomized human trial, 30 days of oral Polypodium leucotomos (about 480 mg daily) raised the minimal erythema dose - the amount of UV needed to redden skin - by roughly 26 percent, so skin tolerated more sun before burning. Use it alongside, not instead of, sunscreen.
Dose or use Trials used about 480 mg daily for several weeks before sun exposure; follow product labeling and consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Randomized Controlled Trial (2026, PMID 41838346): Changes in ultraviolet a radiation-induced thymidine dimers and erythema after oral nicotinamide or polypodium leucotomos extract in healthy volunteers: a randomized intraindividual trial. Oral Polypodium leucotomos raised the minimal erythema dose by about 26 percent versus baseline; it did not measurably reduce UV-induced DNA damage.
EvidenceSupported by smaller clinical studies · Centuries of traditional useTime to resultsTaken daily for about 4 weeks before sun exposureTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Not a replacement for sunscreen; consult a practitioner if pregnant or on medications.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditionally supports skin inflammation recovery
Why it may be relevant
Curcumin is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may support the skin's healing phase after a burn.
Traditionally used to help calm inflammation and support tissue recovery during the healing process.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 1–3 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May interact with blood thinners; consult a practitioner if on medications.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Antioxidant support for recovering skin
Why it may be relevant
Oral vitamin E is traditionally used during recovery to help your skin cope with the oxidative stress left behind by UV exposure.
Traditionally taken as an oral antioxidant to support skin repair as it recovers from sun damage.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 1–3 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: High-dose oral vitamin E can increase bleeding risk, especially alongside blood thinners; stay within recommended amounts and consult a practitioner.
When your skin is hot and inflamed, a topical coriander seed-oil preparation aims at the UV-triggered redness right where it shows up.
In one small controlled test, a lotion containing coriander seed oil reduced UV-induced skin redness in a lab provocation model. That is promising, but it is not proof it treats a full sunburn.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; use externally and consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Small RCT (2008, PMID 18371049): a lipolotion with coriander seed oil reduced redness in an ultraviolet erythema provocation test - a lab model, not a full-sunburn treatment trial.
EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsTypically within hours to a few daysTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: For external use only; patch test first if you have sensitive skin, and keep off broken blisters.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Cooling gel that soothes an active burn
Why it may be relevant
When you're burned right now, topical aloe gel is the classic go-to for cooling and calming hot, inflamed skin.
The library lists burns, including sunburns, among its uses; traditionally applied to draw out heat, calm inflammation, and support skin healing.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer of pure aloe gel to burned areas 2–3 times daily; keeping it refrigerated adds extra cooling.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsCooling relief often felt within minutesTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Use pure gel without added alcohol or fragrance; avoid applying on open blisters.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Acupressure point for heat and inflammation
Why it may be relevant
If you want a hands-on, no-cost complement while your burn settles, LI11 is traditionally used to clear heat and calm inflammation.
In traditional Chinese medicine, LI11 is a classic point for reducing fever and inflammation and easing inflammatory skin conditions.
Dose or use Apply firm circular pressure to the point at the outer end of the elbow crease for 1–2 minutes on each arm.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsSome feel calmer soon after; use as a complementary measureTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: A comfort measure only — it does not cool or treat the skin itself; don't press on burned skin, and seek medical care for severe or blistering burns.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Colloidal oatmeal calms hot, itchy skin
Why it may be relevant
When the burn is hot and itchy, a colloidal oatmeal cream forms a gentle, soothing layer over the irritated skin.
Colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) is a long-standing, well-tolerated soother for dry, irritated and inflamed skin. Its use for sunburn specifically has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials here.
Dose or use Apply to intact skin as needed, following product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used to soothe irritated, inflamed skin; this specific sunburn use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften eases itch and tightness within minutes to a few daysTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: For external use only; stop if you develop a rash or worsening irritation.
Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record
Topical antioxidant may limit UV skin damage
Why it may be relevant
With the burn still fresh, a topical vitamin E preparation adds antioxidant support right where the UV damage happened.
Topical vitamin E (tocopherol) is an antioxidant that can neutralize some UV-driven free radicals. The main supporting study was done in mice, where vitamin E acetate applied soon after UVB exposure reduced sunburn-type skin damage; there is no strong human trial showing it treats sunburn, so consider it unproven for that use.
Dose or use Apply a topical vitamin E preparation to intact skin following product labeling.
Key study Animal study (1993, PMID 8023094): in hairless mice, topical vitamin E acetate applied after UVB reduced sunburn-type skin damage, with less benefit when application was delayed or the concentration was lowered. This is a mouse model, not a human sunburn-treatment trial.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically within a few days
Caution: May cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis in some people; patch test before wider use.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Astringent that cools and soothes irritation
Why it may be relevant
For skin that's hot and irritated right now, witch hazel is a traditional cooling astringent that helps calm the sting.
The library lists sunburn among its uses; its astringent, anti-inflammatory tannins are traditionally used to soothe and cool irritated skin.
Dose or use Dab alcohol-free witch hazel onto burned skin with a cotton pad a few times daily.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsSoothing relief often felt within minutesTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Choose an alcohol-free formula; alcohol-based products can dry out and further irritate burned skin.
When your skin is hot and inflamed, a topical coriander seed-oil preparation aims at the UV-triggered redness right where it shows up.
In one small controlled test, a lotion containing coriander seed oil reduced UV-induced skin redness in a lab provocation model. That is promising, but it is not proof it treats a full sunburn.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; use externally and consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Small RCT (2008, PMID 18371049): a lipolotion with coriander seed oil reduced redness in an ultraviolet erythema provocation test - a lab model, not a full-sunburn treatment trial.
EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsTypically within hours to a few daysTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: For external use only; patch test first if you have sensitive skin, and keep off broken blisters.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Cooling gel that soothes an active burn
Why it may be relevant
When you're burned right now, topical aloe gel is the classic go-to for cooling and calming hot, inflamed skin.
The library lists burns, including sunburns, among its uses; traditionally applied to draw out heat, calm inflammation, and support skin healing.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer of pure aloe gel to burned areas 2–3 times daily; keeping it refrigerated adds extra cooling.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsCooling relief often felt within minutesTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Use pure gel without added alcohol or fragrance; avoid applying on open blisters.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Topical antioxidant against UV damage
Why it may be relevant
As part of building UV resilience, topical green tea extract offers antioxidant support the library links to photoprotection against UV rays.
The library notes it provides photoprotection against UV rays; its EGCG polyphenols are traditionally used for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory skin support.
Dose or use Apply a green-tea-extract serum or cream to exposed skin as directed; pair with, rather than replace, sunscreen.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsBest used consistently over weeks alongside sun protectionTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: For external use only; patch test first if you have sensitive skin.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Colloidal oatmeal calms hot, itchy skin
Why it may be relevant
When the burn is hot and itchy, a colloidal oatmeal cream forms a gentle, soothing layer over the irritated skin.
Colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) is a long-standing, well-tolerated soother for dry, irritated and inflamed skin. Its use for sunburn specifically has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials here.
Dose or use Apply to intact skin as needed, following product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used to soothe irritated, inflamed skin; this specific sunburn use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften eases itch and tightness within minutes to a few daysTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: For external use only; stop if you develop a rash or worsening irritation.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Moisturizes and soothes peeling skin
Why it may be relevant
Shea butter's rich emollient texture makes it a natural fit for the dry, peeling phase of sunburn recovery.
Traditionally used as a skin-barrier emollient to moisturize and soothe peeling, recovering skin.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer to affected skin 2–3 times daily.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 3–7 days of consistent useTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid on open or blistered skin; patch test if you have nut sensitivities.
Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record
Topical antioxidant may limit UV skin damage
Why it may be relevant
With the burn still fresh, a topical vitamin E preparation adds antioxidant support right where the UV damage happened.
Topical vitamin E (tocopherol) is an antioxidant that can neutralize some UV-driven free radicals. The main supporting study was done in mice, where vitamin E acetate applied soon after UVB exposure reduced sunburn-type skin damage; there is no strong human trial showing it treats sunburn, so consider it unproven for that use.
Dose or use Apply a topical vitamin E preparation to intact skin following product labeling.
Key study Animal study (1993, PMID 8023094): in hairless mice, topical vitamin E acetate applied after UVB reduced sunburn-type skin damage, with less benefit when application was delayed or the concentration was lowered. This is a mouse model, not a human sunburn-treatment trial.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsTypically within a few days
Caution: May cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis in some people; patch test before wider use.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Astringent that cools and soothes irritation
Why it may be relevant
For skin that's hot and irritated right now, witch hazel is a traditional cooling astringent that helps calm the sting.
The library lists sunburn among its uses; its astringent, anti-inflammatory tannins are traditionally used to soothe and cool irritated skin.
Dose or use Dab alcohol-free witch hazel onto burned skin with a cotton pad a few times daily.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsSoothing relief often felt within minutesTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Choose an alcohol-free formula; alcohol-based products can dry out and further irritate burned skin.
I burn more easily than most people — I want to check for an underlying reason
–
Nutrient gap worth checking
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Low niacin can raise sun sensitivity
Why it may be relevant
If you burn easily, it's worth knowing that low niacin is linked to skin redness and sensitivity to sunlight — worth ruling out as you build resilience.
Niacin deficiency's documented signs include redness and sensitivity to sunlight, so correcting a genuine shortfall may support your skin's tolerance of UV.
Dose or use Ask a practitioner about assessing your niacin status through diet, and address any shortfall with food or a B3 supplement as advised.
Key study Based on documented deficiency signs; this specific preventive use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsVaries; skin changes from correcting a deficiency develop over weeksTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: High-dose niacin can cause flushing and liver strain; correct a suspected deficiency under guidance rather than self-dosing.
–
Nutrient gap worth checking
Vitamin C Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Low vitamin C can slow skin repair
Why it may be relevant
As your skin repairs, it's worth checking whether low vitamin C could be limiting collagen production and wound healing.
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis and is a key skin antioxidant; correcting a genuine shortfall supports wound healing. This is a root-cause check, not a sunburn treatment claim.
Dose or use Ask your provider to assess your intake or levels before supplementing, and follow their guidance.
Key study Correcting a documented shortfall can support skin repair; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim - ask your provider to test your levels.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4-8 weeks to correct a shortfallTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Very high oral doses can cause stomach upset or diarrhea; correct a real deficiency rather than mega-dosing.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Low vitamin E may slow skin recovery
Why it may be relevant
As you focus on healing, it's worth checking whether low vitamin E levels could be limiting your skin's natural repair and antioxidant defenses.
If you're low in vitamin E, correcting the deficiency can help support your skin's antioxidant capacity and recovery process.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Correcting a documented shortfall can support recovery; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim — ask your provider to test your levels.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: High-dose vitamin E supplements may interact with blood-thinning medications; consult your practitioner.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditionally supports skin inflammation recovery
Why it may be relevant
Curcumin is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may support the skin's healing phase after a burn.
Traditionally used to help calm inflammation and support tissue recovery during the healing process.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 1–3 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May interact with blood thinners; consult a practitioner if on medications.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Moisturizes and soothes peeling skin
Why it may be relevant
Shea butter's rich emollient texture makes it a natural fit for the dry, peeling phase of sunburn recovery.
Traditionally used as a skin-barrier emollient to moisturize and soothe peeling, recovering skin.
Dose or use Apply a thin layer to affected skin 2–3 times daily.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 3–7 days of consistent useTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Avoid on open or blistered skin; patch test if you have nut sensitivities.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Antioxidant support for recovering skin
Why it may be relevant
Oral vitamin E is traditionally used during recovery to help your skin cope with the oxidative stress left behind by UV exposure.
Traditionally taken as an oral antioxidant to support skin repair as it recovers from sun damage.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 1–3 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: High-dose oral vitamin E can increase bleeding risk, especially alongside blood thinners; stay within recommended amounts and consult a practitioner.
I'd rather get my nutrient levels checked and fix any real shortfall
–
Nutrient gap worth checking
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Low niacin can raise sun sensitivity
Why it may be relevant
If you burn easily, it's worth knowing that low niacin is linked to skin redness and sensitivity to sunlight — worth ruling out as you build resilience.
Niacin deficiency's documented signs include redness and sensitivity to sunlight, so correcting a genuine shortfall may support your skin's tolerance of UV.
Dose or use Ask a practitioner about assessing your niacin status through diet, and address any shortfall with food or a B3 supplement as advised.
Key study Based on documented deficiency signs; this specific preventive use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsVaries; skin changes from correcting a deficiency develop over weeksTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: High-dose niacin can cause flushing and liver strain; correct a suspected deficiency under guidance rather than self-dosing.
–
Nutrient gap worth checking
Vitamin C Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Low vitamin C can slow skin repair
Why it may be relevant
As your skin repairs, it's worth checking whether low vitamin C could be limiting collagen production and wound healing.
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis and is a key skin antioxidant; correcting a genuine shortfall supports wound healing. This is a root-cause check, not a sunburn treatment claim.
Dose or use Ask your provider to assess your intake or levels before supplementing, and follow their guidance.
Key study Correcting a documented shortfall can support skin repair; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim - ask your provider to test your levels.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4-8 weeks to correct a shortfallTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Very high oral doses can cause stomach upset or diarrhea; correct a real deficiency rather than mega-dosing.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Low vitamin E may slow skin recovery
Why it may be relevant
As you focus on healing, it's worth checking whether low vitamin E levels could be limiting your skin's natural repair and antioxidant defenses.
If you're low in vitamin E, correcting the deficiency can help support your skin's antioxidant capacity and recovery process.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Correcting a documented shortfall can support recovery; this is a root-cause check, not a treatment claim — ask your provider to test your levels.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: High-dose vitamin E supplements may interact with blood-thinning medications; consult your practitioner.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Acupressure point for heat and inflammation
Why it may be relevant
If you want a hands-on, no-cost complement while your burn settles, LI11 is traditionally used to clear heat and calm inflammation.
In traditional Chinese medicine, LI11 is a classic point for reducing fever and inflammation and easing inflammatory skin conditions.
Dose or use Apply firm circular pressure to the point at the outer end of the elbow crease for 1–2 minutes on each arm.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsSome feel calmer soon after; use as a complementary measureTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: A comfort measure only — it does not cool or treat the skin itself; don't press on burned skin, and seek medical care for severe or blistering burns.
Evidence grades describe the strength of published research for Sunburns, not a promise of results. A higher grade is not a personal recommendation. Nothing here is medical advice — talk to your clinician before starting anything, especially alongside prescription medication.
Related pressure points
Hands-on options you can try yourself.
Acupressure is a comfort measure, not a treatment for Sunburns itself. Each page shows where the point is and how to press it.
