The main cause of sunburn is overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, generally from the sun's rays. Sometimes it may occur from other UV light such as tanning salons. It is associated with some microscopic change in the skin. Sunburn may occur to anyone who goes for fishing, swimming in the sunlight or visit a beach. Consumption of birth control pills, antibacterial agents used in soaps and shampoo, outdoor activities like swimming, skiing and hiking are the causes for sunburn.

Most sunburns are actually first degree burns, though sometimes they can be second degree. What most don't know, is a first degree sunburn can set in under half an hour in the sun. Having good sunburn relief readily available can save many restless, painful nights for those impacted. Most importantly, someone with a sunburn should remain out of the sun while the burn heals.

One of the best home remedies for sun burn is to apply cold water to the affected areas. This can be done by simply placing cold compressions on the area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. If you are looking for a more long term solution, you can soak in a bath of cold water. This may be a bit uncomfortable on the rest of your body, but it will feel great on your sunburn.

An effective home remedy for sunburn is to apply the paste of four tablespoon of buttermilk and two tablespoon of tomato juice for half an hour, and then wash it off. Similarly, paste of turmeric, barley and yoghurt in equal proportions also gives immense relief when applied on the sunburn area. Intake of juice of raw mango along with salt and sugar is very effective in combating sunburn, and is highly recommended at least thrice a day.

Manage the pain of your sunburn with over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Consider soothing your sunburn by taking a cool shower or bath.

Excellent Sunburn Treatments:

· Look for products that include the ingredient idocaine, which is an anesthetic. Idocaine will help soothe the pain.

· Cooled whole, plain yogurt can help soothe sunburned skin when slathered on the affected area.

· Take an over the counter pain reliever like Tylenol or Advil to help with the pain, especially when trying to sleep through the night.

· Soak a washcloth in cooled milk and dab it on burns.

· Dilute 1 part of tea tree oil with 10 parts of olive oil and dab freely on the skin.

Aloe vera is a more conventional remedy. If you are lucky enough to own an aloe vera plant that is at least 3 to 5 years old, you own a natural, living, breathing first aid kit. Cut off a leaf from the plant and slice it lengthwise. Then press the colorless gel against your skin to heal it and soothe the sunburn.

Drink plenty of fluids and stay out of the sun to avoid worsening the situation. If you want a tan, use a self tanning lotion instead.