Natural remedies for sunburn have been used for generations, with witch hazel and coconut oil being two of the most popular options. But do these plant-based treatments actually work for soothing sun-damaged skin? Let’s talk about what scientific research tells us about the effectiveness of witch hazel and coconut oil for sunburn relief.
Table of Contents
Witch Hazel for Sunburn
What Is Witch Hazel?
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a North American shrub whose bark and leaves contain high levels of tannins – compounds with astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. The most important compound is hamamelitannin, which gives witch hazel its therapeutic effects.
Scientific Evidence for Sunburn Relief
Unlike many natural remedies, witch hazel has strong clinical evidence supporting its use for UV-induced skin damage:
A controlled study with 40 volunteers found that 10% witch hazel distillate lotion significantly reduced UV-induced erythema (redness). The results showed (1):
- 20% reduction in redness at 7 hours
- 27% reduction in redness at 48 hours
This was significantly better than control lotions.
Another clinical trial specifically tested witch hazel in after-sun lotions. The study confirmed significant anti-inflammatory action, with witch hazel preparations outperforming standard after-sun formulations (2).
How It Works
Laboratory studies have identified how witch hazel reduces sunburn inflammation (3):
- Inhibits NF-κB, a key inflammatory pathway
- Reduces production of inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and IL-8
- Provides antioxidant effects that may help prevent further cell damage
How to Use Witch Hazel for Sunburn
- Look for products containing 10% witch hazel distillate (the concentration proven effective in studies)
- Apply with a cotton ball or soft cloth to affected areas
- Can be reapplied several times daily as needed
- Available as lotions, gels, or liquid preparations
Coconut Oil for Sunburn
What Is Virgin Coconut Oil?
Virgin coconut oil is extracted from fresh coconut meat without using high heat or chemicals. It retains natural compounds including medium-chain fatty acids, vitamin E, and polyphenols that may benefit skin health.
Scientific Evidence for Sunburn Relief
The evidence for coconut oil’s sunburn benefits is more limited than witch hazel:
Research on skin cells has shown that virgin coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties. In one study, it:
- Reduced inflammatory markers (TNF-α by 62%, IL-6 by 52%, IL-8 by 54%)
- Provided moderate UV protection
- Enhanced skin barrier proteins
However, this was an in vitro (laboratory) study, not a clinical trial on actual sunburn (4).
While coconut oil is widely used in traditional medicine for burns and skin conditions, there are no specific clinical trials testing it for sunburn relief in humans. The anti-inflammatory effects seen in laboratory studies suggest potential benefits, but human studies are needed.
How It Might Work
Based on laboratory research, coconut oil may help sunburn through:
- Anti-inflammatory effects from compounds like lauric acid
- Moisturizing properties that prevent skin drying and peeling
- Antioxidant effects from vitamin E and polyphenols
- Enhancement of skin barrier function
How to Use Coconut Oil for Sunburn
If you choose to try coconut oil:
- Use virgin (unrefined) coconut oil for maximum beneficial compounds
- Apply after cooling the skin first (not immediately on hot, inflamed skin)
- Use a thin layer. Too much can trap heat
- Best used during the healing phase rather than immediately after sun exposure
- Test on a small area first, as some people may be sensitive
Comparing Witch Hazel and Coconut Oil
| Aspect | Witch Hazel | Coconut Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Evidence | Strong. Multiple human studies | Limited. Only lab studies |
| Proven Effects | 20-27% reduction in redness | Anti-inflammatory in lab tests |
| Best Used | Immediately and during healing | During healing phase |
| Main Benefits | Reduces inflammation and redness | Moisturizes and may reduce inflammation |
Using Them Together
Some people use both remedies at different stages of sunburn healing:
- Initial treatment: Apply witch hazel to reduce inflammation and redness
- Healing phase: Use coconut oil to moisturize and support skin barrier repair
However, there are no studies on using these remedies together, so this approach is based on their individual properties rather than proven synergistic effects.
Other Evidence-Based Treatments
While witch hazel shows promise and coconut oil may help, don’t forget these proven sunburn treatments:
- Cool water: Apply for 20 minutes as soon as possible (5)
- Aloe vera: Proven to reduce healing time significantly
- Moisturizers: Help maintain skin hydration during healing
- NSAIDs: Can reduce pain and inflammation when taken orally
When to See a Doctor
Natural remedies have limits. Seek medical care for:
- Extensive blistering
- Signs of infection
- Fever, chills, or nausea
- Severe pain
- Sunburn covering a large body area
The Bottom Line
Witch hazel has solid scientific evidence supporting its use for sunburn, with clinical trials showing significant reduction in redness and inflammation. It’s one of the few natural remedies with proven effectiveness for UV-induced skin damage.
Coconut oil shows promise based on laboratory studies demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects, but lacks specific clinical trials for sunburn. It may be helpful as a moisturizer during the healing phase, but shouldn’t be relied upon as a primary treatment.
For best results, consider using witch hazel for its proven anti-inflammatory effects, potentially followed by coconut oil for moisturization during healing. However, always prioritize proven first-aid measures like cooling and proper sun protection to prevent future burns.