Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Sunburn
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Vitamin C and Vitamin E Oral (short term ) | 2,000 to 3,000 mg vitamin C and 1,000 to 2,000 IU vitamin E |  [3 stars] Antioxidants may protect the skin from sunburn due to free radicalproducing ultraviolet rays. Combinations of vitamin E and C offer protection against ultraviolet rays. |
Beta-Carotene | 6 mg daily of natural beta-carotene during periods of high sun exposure |  [2 stars] Supplementing with beta-carotene may help protect the skin from ultraviolet rays and sunburn. |
Calaguala | Take 7.5 mg per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight or 1,080 mg of a 50:1 extract during periods of high sun exposure | [2 stars] Extracts of PL have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and have been shown to reduce the burning effect of ultraviolet rays. |
Green Tea | Apply a formula containing 10% green tea polyphenols before sun exposure | [2 stars] Green tea contains polyphenols that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, and studies have suggested that these polyphenols can protect skin against ultraviolet rays. |
Lycopene | Take 6 mg daily from a tomato extract during periods of high sun exposure | [2 stars] Studies have shown lycopene to be helpful in protecting the skin from sunburn. |
Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol) | 1.1 to 1.66 mg per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight per day during periods of high sun exposure | [2 stars] Proanthocyanidins (flavonoids found in pine bark, grape seed, and other plant sources) may increase the amount of ultraviolet rays necessary to cause sunburn.
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Proanthocyanidins | 1.1 to 1.66 mg per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight per day during periods of high sun exposure | [2 stars] Proanthocyanidins are a group of flavonoids found in pine bark, grape seed, and other plant sources that may increase the amount of ultraviolet rays necessary to cause sunburn. |
Vitamin C and Vitamin E Topical | Apply a formula containing 2% vitamin E and 5% vitamin C before sun exposure | [2 stars] Studies have found sunscreen-like effects from topical application of the vitamin C and vitamin E combination. |
Aloe | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Topically applied Aloe vera is often recommended for soothing sunburn. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.