A systematic review on traditional, ayurvedic, and herbal approaches to treat solar erythema

Int J Dermatol. 2023 Mar;62(3):322-336. doi: 10.1111/ijd.16231. Epub 2022 May 29.

Abstract

Solar erythema is a kind of radiation burn that strikes living tissue, such as skin, that arises from overexposure to UV radiation often from the sun. Ordinary symptoms of solar erythema include reddish skin, specifically warm to touch, overall tiredness, hurting, and mild whirl. Sunscreen contains SPF value, which measures how much ultraviolet radiation is needed to cause sunburn on sunscreen-applied skin, which is proportional to the quantity of solar energy needed to cause sunburn on unprotected skin. Between 30 and 50 SPF value is sufficient to protect from sunburn, especially for the people who are more sensitive to sunburn. Sunscreen also protects from sun damage including dark spots and discoloration and helps to keep skin smooth, spotless, and more even. Chemical-based sunscreen is widely used because it effectively protects the skin from sun damage, but it clogs pores and can be problematic for sensitive skin as it can cause itching or stinging of the skin and pus in the hair follicles. On the other hand, herbal sunscreen absorbs light preferentially over the range of 280-320 mm without causing any harm to the skin and eyes. Ayurveda rejuvenates dull skin by regaining the skin's natural glow and radiance. This review concludes the damaging and harmful effects of UV rays, along with various traditional, ayurvedic, and herbal approaches to treat solar erythema naturally.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Erythema / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Sunburn*
  • Sunlight
  • Sunscreening Agents / therapeutic use
  • Ultraviolet Rays

Substances

  • Sunscreening Agents

Grants and funding