This Underrated Ingredient Can Soothe A Sunburn Overnight (Nope, Not Aloe)

Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, argan oil makes a softening hair mask, a gentle cleanser, and in the case of this TikTok from board-certified dermatologist and mbg Collective member Whitney Bowe, M.D., an excellent choice for sunburn recovery. Here's why you shouldn't sleep on argan for your sunburn aftercare. 

As for its sunburn-soothing effects, argan's anti-inflammatory properties2 make it a top-notch treatment for skin barrier repair (tempering inflammation can also help burns feel less tender or itchy during the healing process), and an animal study found that applying argan oil could help speed up wound healing in second-degree burns3. Not to mention, the oil is also full of fatty acids that can help boost moisture levels in the skin, which is especially helpful as the sunburn starts to peel. 

You should also know that argan oil does not work on fresh burns (see: hot, raw, angry skin). The oil is an occlusive, which means it can trap all that heat in your skin and actually make the sunburn worse. As Bowe clarifies in the comments, you should "try to avoid all oils or anything heavy [or] greasy until [the] burn cools down to the touch." Once the burn cools completely (and perhaps starts to peel), that's when argan makes a great remedy. 

Argan oil can help soothe an uncomfortable sunburn, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and trove of antioxidants. While it's not best for fresh burns (you'll want to stick to aloe, oatmeal, or even ice in those moments), argan oil can help condition the skin as it heals and support the recovery process.