Does Vinegar Help Sunburn: 11 Pros and Cons and 5 Safe Methods [6 Precautions]

The acidic nature of vinegar may aggravate sunburned cyclists' sensitive skin. This irritation could delay the natural healing process, prolonging the discomfort and vulnerability of the affected area.

Vinegar, which some people swear by to relieve sunburn, can make it worse. Vinegar mixed with cool water can cause dry, blistered skin. However, vinegar's mild acidity can aggravate a sunburn, further drying the skin.

In this article, we will explain the pros and cons of vinegar for sunburn, safe ways to apply apple cider vinegar to sunburn, and some precautions.

Does Vinegar Help Sunburn: 11 Pros and Cons

Cycling under the sun can sometimes leave you with an unwanted souvenir, a painful sunburn. Many people turn to home remedies like vinegar to soothe the discomfort, but is it effective? The following are the pros and cons of using vinegar to treat sunburns:

Pros

Sunburn can be painful, especially for those who spend much time outdoors. Many people turn to home remedies for relief, such as vinegar. Known for its versatile uses, vinegar is thought to offer several benefits for sunburned skin. Here are some of  the potential advantages of using vinegar for sunburn relief:

Pain Relief

Vinegar's significant benefit to sunburned skin is its ability to ease pain. The acetic acid found in vinegar relieves pain and inflammation caused by sunburn. When the skin is exposed to the sun for prolonged periods, UV rays penetrate the epidermis, causing damage to skin cells and leading to inflammation. Applying vinegar can provide a mild numbing effect, easing discomfort.

Cooling Effect

Vinegar also has a cooling effect on the skin, which benefits people suffering from sunburns. When applied to sunburned skin, vinegar evaporates quickly, producing a cooling sensation that can provide immediate relief from the heat. This effect can be incredibly soothing for those experiencing intense burning or heat from their sunburn.

Antimicrobial Properties

Another advantage of using vinegar on sunburned skin is its antimicrobial properties. Sunburn can compromise the skin's natural barrier, making it more susceptible to infections. Vinegar's natural acidity and antimicrobial properties can help prevent bacterial infections from developing in the damaged skin.

pH Balancing

The skin's natural pH is slightly acidic; maintaining this balance is crucial for skin health. Sun exposure can disrupt the skin's pH, leading to discomfort and slower healing. Vinegar's acidity can help restore the skin's pH balance, promoting a faster recovery.

Moisture Retention

Skin hydration is vital for preventing peeling and promoting healing after a sunburn. Vinegar can assist in moisture retention by creating a barrier on the skin that locks in moisture. This barrier can prevent excessive drying and flaking, common issues after a sunburn.

Cons

While vinegar is often touted as a natural remedy for sunburn because of its soothing properties, it's essential to recognize that it may not suit everyone. Using vinegar on sunburned skin has potential drawbacks and risks that should be weighed. Here are some of these cons: 

Skin Irritation

One of the primary concerns with using vinegar on sunburned skin is the risk of irritation. Vinegar is acidic, and applying it to already sensitive and damaged skin can exacerbate irritation. For individuals with sensitive skin, the acetic acid in vinegar can cause a burning sensation, leading to increased redness and discomfort.

Increased Pain and Inflammation

Vinegar is highly acidic, and this property can significantly exacerbate the pain and inflammation of sunburned skin. The acetic acid in vinegar can be too harsh for the delicate, damaged skin, leading to a more intense burning sensation. When applied to sunburn, vinegar can irritate the nerve endings in the skin, causing increased discomfort. Instead of providing relief, it can amplify the pain and make the healing process even more unbearable.

Skin Dryness

Another complication of using vinegar on sunburned skin is increased dryness. The acetic acid can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin dehydrated and tight. This excessive dryness can slow down the healing process and lead to peeling and flaking, which are uncomfortable and unsightly.

Chemical Burns

Applying vinegar to already irritated skin can cause severe chemical burns. Vinegar's acidic nature can damage the skin further, leading to deep tissue burns that are painful to treat. Chemical burns can increase the risk of scarring and take a long time to heal, leaving the skin vulnerable to further damage.

Damage to the Skin Barrier

The skin barrier is crucial for protecting against environmental aggressors and retaining moisture. Sunburn already compromises this barrier, and vinegar can exacerbate the damage. By further weakening the skin barrier, vinegar makes it harder for the skin to repair itself, prolonging the healing process and increasing the susceptibility to other irritants.

Infection Risk

Damaged skin from sunburn is more susceptible to infections, and applying vinegar can increase this risk. Vinegar's irritation can create micro-tears in the skin, inviting bacteria to invade and cause infections. The acidic environment may also disrupt the skin's natural pH balance, compromising its ability to ward off harmful microbes.

5 Safe Methods To Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Sunburn for Cyclist

Applying apple cider vinegar (ACV) to sunburn can help soothe the skin, but it’s essential to do it safely to avoid further irritation. Here are some steps you can follow:

Step 1: Dilute the Vinegar

The first and most crucial step when using ACV for sunburn relief is to dilute it properly. Undiluted ACV is significantly too harsh for sun-damaged skin. To create a safe solution, mix one-part apple cider vinegar with five parts water. This dilution reduces the vinegar's acidity, making it gentle enough for sunburned skin.

Diluting the vinegar minimizes the risk of irritation and ensures that the vinegar's beneficial properties can work effectively without causing harm.

Step 2: Spray or Dab Application

Once you have your diluted solution, you can apply it using one of two methods:

• Spray Method: Pour the diluted ACV mixture into a spray bottle. Gently spray it onto the sunburned areas, ensuring you cover all affected regions. This method is convenient for cyclists who might have sunburn on large or hard-to-reach areas, such as the back or shoulders.
• Dab Method: If you prefer a more controlled application, dip a clean washcloth into the solution. Wring out the excess liquid and gently pat the cloth on the sunburned skin. This method allows for more precise applications, which is ideal for smaller areas or avoiding unnecessary contact with sensitive skin. Both methods are effective, but it's essential to be gentle to prevent aggravating the skin further.

Step 3: Incorporate into a Cool Bath

A cool bath with apple cider vinegar can provide soothing relief for cyclists with sunburn over larger areas. Fill a bathtub with cool, not cold, water and add a cup of the diluted ACV solution. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes, calming the mixture and soothing the sunburned skin.

This method is beneficial after a long ride. It not only eases the pain but also helps lower your body temperature, which might be elevated from time spent in the sun.

Step 4: Moisturize After Application

To achieve the best results, rinse your skin with cool water after using apple cider vinegar and pat it gently dry with a soft towel. This step removes residual vinegar from your skin, preventing potential irritation from prolonged exposure.

Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in moisture and promote healing. Use products containing aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, known for their hydrating and soothing properties.

Step 5: Avoid Overuse

While ACV can offer relief, overuse can lead to irritation or worsen sunburn symptoms. Use this remedy sparingly, ideally once a day, and monitor your skin's response. Discontinue use immediately if you experience discomfort, increased redness, or worsening symptoms.

6 Precautions For Using Vinegar On Cycling Sunburn

While cycling is a great way to take in the great outdoors, prolonged sun exposure can cause unwanted sunburns, especially on the face. While some cyclists turn to vinegar as a home remedy for relief, it’s crucial to apply it safely to prevent further skin damage. Here are some essential precautions when using vinegar on sunburned skin: 

Dilute the Vinegar

Vinegar should never be applied directly to sunburned skin. The acidity can irritate, so always dilute it with water. A safe ratio is one part vinegar to ten parts water. This dilution helps reduce the risk of irritation while allowing the vinegar’s soothing properties to work effectively.

• Mix the vinegar and water thoroughly.
• Use a spray bottle or a clean washcloth for application.

Proper dilution ensures the vinegar is gentle enough for sensitive, sunburned skin.

Perform a Patch Test

Always patch test before applying diluted vinegar to a large area. This involves applying a small amount of the diluted mixture to a discreet part of your skin, like the inner arm, and waiting 24 hours for a reaction.

• The patch test helps identify potential allergies or sensitivities.
• It prevents widespread irritation by catching reactions early.

Avoid Broken Skin

Never apply vinegar to areas where the skin is broken or blistered. When applied to open wounds, vinegar can cause stinging, further irritation, and even pain. It can also exacerbate the damage, delaying the healing process.

• Use soothing gels like aloe vera.
• Consider cold compresses to reduce inflammation without irritation.

Focusing on these alternatives ensures that your treatment does not cause additional harm.

Moisturize After Use

Vinegar can dry out your skin further, so it’s essential to moisturize after application. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration and aid recovery.

• Look for ingredients like aloe vera, ceramide, or hyaluronic acid.
• Ensure the product is suitable for sensitive skin.

Moisturizing helps maintain skin elasticity and promotes faster healing by reducing dryness and peeling.

Monitor for Adverse Reactions

After applying vinegar, monitor your skin’s response. If you notice increased redness, itching, or discomfort, cease use immediately and rinse the area with cool water.

• Persistent discomfort or pain.
• Rash or blisters forming.

Promptly addressing adverse reactions prevents further complications and ensures your skin’s safety.

Consult a Doctor

If your sunburn is severe or you experience complications, consult a healthcare professional. Severe sunburns might require specialized treatment that home remedies cannot provide.

• If you have extensive blistering or swelling.
• When over-the-counter remedies do not ease symptoms.

Conclusion

In a world filled with home remedies, using vinegar for sunburn relief requires careful consideration. Yes, it has its benefits—it can offer pain relief, a cooling effect, help balance your skin's pH level, and even have antimicrobial properties. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows, as it can also cause skin irritation, increased inflammation, and dryness, among other downsides.