Summer Skin Care: DIY Epsom Salt Soak for Sunburn Relief

Did you know Epsom salt can help soothe sunburn? It’s one of those things most people don’t realise—but it really can make a difference. I always keep a jar of Epsom salt on hand at home because it’s so incredibly versatile. From sore muscles to skin flare-ups, it’s my go-to for all sorts of natural remedies.

After a sunny day outdoors, when your skin feels hot, tight, or tender, this gentle Epsom Salt Soak for Sunburn is a lovely way to cool down and calm your body. It’s made with just a few natural ingredients—Epsom salt, aloe vera, peppermint and lavender—that work together to refresh and restore your skin, all while giving you a moment to slow down and breathe.

Summer Skin Rescue: DIY After-Sun Soak with Epsom Salt

Let me show you how I make it.

Why This Soak Works

I like to keep things simple but effective. This blend does precisely that:

Epsom Salt

Rich in magnesium, it helps relax tired muscles, ease tension, and soften skin that has had too much sun.

Aloe Vera

This is one of my favourite summer skin staples. It hydrates, soothes and supports healing—perfect after time in the sun.

Peppermint Essential Oil

I use just a little for its natural cooling effect. It instantly refreshes hot skin and feels so uplifting.

Lavender Essential Oil

A beautiful all-rounder. Lavender calms both the skin and the nervous system simultaneously. I always add a few drops for its gentle, soothing energy.

DIY After-Sun Soak Recipe

DIY After-Sun Soak Epsom Salt Recipe

Here’s what I use:

• 1½ cups Epsom salt

• 2 tablespoons pure aloe vera gel

• 4 drops lavender essential oil

• 2 drops peppermint essential oil

• Optional: 1 tablespoon dried chamomile or lavender buds

How I Make It

1. I run a bath with lukewarm water—not hot, as heat can exacerbate sunburn.

2. In a small bowl, I mix the aloe vera gel with the essential oils to ensure they blend properly.

3. I stir the Epsom salt into the bath until it’s fully dissolved.

4. Then I add the aloe and oil mixture, and sprinkle in a few dried herbs if I’m feeling fancy.

5. I soak for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing my skin to breathe and my body to unwind.

A Few Tips I’ve Learned

• Keep a jug of cold water or herbal tea nearby. After-sun soaks can be extra hydrating if you stay well-hydrated.

• After I get out of the bath, I gently pat my skin dry and follow up with more aloe or a light natural body oil.

• I avoid using any exfoliating or heavily scented products for at least 24 hours—less is more when your skin is feeling sensitive.

Make a Cooling Skin Spray Too

Sometimes I make a simple after-sun spray to keep in the fridge. I mix:

• 1 tbsp aloe vera gel

• 100ml distilled water

• 3 drops each of peppermint and lavender essential oil

I shake it well in a spray bottle and mist it on my skin when I need a quick refresh. It’s lovely straight from the fridge.

Epsom Salt Soak for Sunburn: In a Nutshell

This after-sun soak is one of my favourite summer rituals. It’s quick to put together, made with ingredients I usually have on hand, and it makes such a difference to how my skin feels after a sunny day.

Natural remedies don’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients, used with care, we can go a long way in helping ourselves feel comfortable and cared for.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to know how it works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Epsom salt help with sunburn? Yes, it can. While it’s not a cure, Epsom salt is recognised for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. I’ve found it helps ease that tight, hot feeling in the skin, especially when combined with aloe and cool water.

2. Is it safe to use essential oils on sunburnt skin? In small amounts, yes—but it’s important to dilute them properly. That’s why I mix the oils with aloe vera gel before adding them to the bath. Lavender and peppermint are both gentle when used this way.

3. Can I use this soak if I’ve only got mild sunburn? Yes, you can. This recipe is designed for mild to moderate after-sun care. If your skin is blistered or severely burned, it’s best to skip the soak and stick with cool compresses and aloe, or consult a healthcare professional.

4. Do I have to use aloe vera gel from the plant? No, I usually use a pure, unscented aloe gel from a trusted brand—it’s easier and keeps well. Just make sure it doesn’t have added fragrance or alcohol, as that can irritate sun-exposed skin.

5. How often can I do this soak?I tend to do it once a day for a few days after sun exposure, or whenever my skin feels the need for it. Just be gentle and listen to what your body needs.