Exposure to the sun can dry out the skin and cause redness. It is therefore essential to repair it with suitable after-sun care. Creams or milks, with light and refreshing textures, can soothe and moisturize, while products such as after-sun gels offer an immediate cooling effect. Some natural sun care products, such as aloe vera, are particularly effective in relieving overheated skin. Taking care of your skin after the sun also means preparing it for future exposures, for a sublime tan and preserved skin.
How to moisturize your skin after sun exposure?
The need for care after sun exposure
Post-sun care is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Sun exposure can cause skin damage ranging from simple redness to burning and dehydration. The sun can also accelerate skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Applying after-sun care helps rehydrate the skin, soothe burning sensations and repair damage caused by UV rays. It also helps prolong the tan obtained. That's why it's important not to neglect this post-exposure care step.
The different types of after-sun products
Restorative creams for face and body
Restorative face and body creams are a preferred option for providing restorative and regenerating care after sun exposure. Thanks to their rich formula, these creams help repair the epidermis, prevent signs of premature aging and prolong the tan. They usually contain active ingredients such as aloe vera, known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, or plant extracts with anti-radical properties to fight against free radicals generated by sun exposure.
Repairing creams are ideal for dry, sensitive or mature skin, which requires intense hydration and nutrition. They can be used on both the face and body.
Here are some key criteria to consider when choosing your after-sun repair cream:
- Composition : choose creams containing ingredients of natural origin and avoid those containing endocrine disruptors or allergens.
- Skin type : Some creams are more suitable for dry skin, while others are better suited for oily or sensitive skin.
- Texture : Creams are generally richer and more nourishing than milks or gels, but they can also be more oily.
- Certifications : to guarantee the quality and safety of products, opt for creams that are certified organic or dermatologically tested.
What are the best after-sun products?
Time To Detox Multi-Use Balm : Your Summer Ally
Summer can be particularly trying for our skin. Between the sun, the heat, the salt from the sea and the chlorine from swimming pools, our skin is put to the test. Time To Detox balm offers deep hydration thanks to its formula enriched with natural ingredients. Its creamy texture penetrates quickly without leaving a greasy film, bringing comfort and suppleness to your skin from the first application.
After-sun milks: intense hydration
After-sun milks, with their light and fluid texture, are particularly suitable for intense skin hydration . They penetrate quickly without leaving a greasy film, making them an ideal option for normal to dry skin.
These products are full of moisturizing agents such as glycerin , aloe vera or hyaluronic acid , which help retain water in the epidermis and restore its natural hydration. They also contain fatty substances and emollients, such as olive oil squalane , which deeply nourish the skin and leave it feeling soft.
Some after-sun milks can also include restorative and soothing active ingredients to relieve the burning and tightness sensations typical after prolonged exposure to the sun.
Cooling gels for an immediate effect
Cooling gels offer a quick solution to soothe skin after sun exposure. They are appreciated for their lightweight texture, which absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any residue. After-sun gels generally have calming and cooling properties, ideal for relieving feelings of heat or tightness.
Among the commonly used ingredients, aloe vera is particularly prized for its soothing and moisturizing properties. Some formulas also include plant extracts such as peppermint, known for its immediate cooling effect.
It is worth noting that the choice of after-sun gel should take into account the nature of your skin. Indeed, if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin, opt for hypoallergenic and paraben-free formulas.
To optimize the effect of the refreshing gels, it is recommended to apply them in a generous layer on clean, dry skin, focusing on the most exposed areas.
Soothing lotions for sensitive skin
Soothing lotions are specifically formulated for sensitive skin that has been exposed to the sun. Their light texture allows for quick absorption and provides immediate soothing. These products usually contain active ingredients such as aloe vera or glycerin known for their moisturizing and soothing properties.
Many brands offer soothing lotions for sensitive skin. Examples include Avène , with its after-sun repair milk, or Bioderma , with its after-sun for sensitive skin. These products have been formulated to minimize the risk of irritation and are therefore ideal for sensitive skin.
- Avène : After-sun repair milk. A high tolerance, hypoallergenic formula, suitable for sensitive skin.
- Bioderma : After-sun for sensitive skin. A light, moisturizing and soothing lotion.
It is recommended to apply these lotions on clean and dry skin, insisting on the areas most exposed to the sun. For an optimal effect, it is advisable to use them after each sun exposure.
The importance of natural after-sun care
Aloe vera : an essential ally
Aloe vera is a key component of after-sun care. This plant, used since ancient times, is particularly rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Its ability to hydrate and regenerate the skin makes it a natural choice for post-exposure care.
- Hydration: Aloe vera has the ability to deeply hydrate the skin and maintain this hydration. This is an essential property after sun exposure, which tends to dry out the skin.
- Regeneration: Aloe vera promotes cellular regeneration, a crucial function in repairing UV damage.
- Soothing: Aloe vera is also known for its soothing effect, ideal for relieving feelings of heat or tightness after a day in the sun.
Aloe vera can be used in different forms in after-sun care: in pure gel, cream, lotion or even directly from the plant. Its use is simple, just apply it generously to the areas exposed to the sun.
In conclusion, aloe vera is a natural and effective solution for taking care of your skin after sun exposure. Its richness in nutrients and its multiple benefits make it an essential ingredient in after-sun care.
After-sun oil: a nourishing option
After-sun oil is an excellent alternative to nourish and regenerate the skin after sun exposure. Its formula, often rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, contributes to skin repair and prevents skin aging.
Among the ingredients commonly used in these oils, we find Monoï de Tahiti , Camellia oil or Argan oil, known for their moisturizing, soothing and restorative properties. These oils help maintain skin hydration, soothe redness and promote skin regeneration.
Some after-sun oils may also contain calendula or carrot oil, which have soothing properties and help promote a glowing tan.
For optimal use, it is recommended to apply the after-sun oil to clean, dry skin, massaging gently to promote absorption.
How to use after-sun correctly?
When to use after sun?
Applying your after-sun care should be done immediately after sun exposure . This helps soothe the skin, reduce redness and prevent sunburn. Using after-sun also helps restore moisture lost during sun exposure.
- Don't wait until you're sunburned to apply your after-sun. Even if your skin appears healthy, after-sun should be applied after each exposure.
- Beyond immediate post-exposure application, the ideal is to apply it morning and evening for greater effectiveness.
- If your skin has been damaged by the sun, after sun can be applied as often as needed. It is crucial to ensure that damaged or burned skin remains moisturized to prevent peeling.
- It is also advisable to apply your after-sun care after taking your shower , this will immediately calm irritations and begin the repair.
Maintain and prolong your tan with after-sun
After-sun also plays a crucial role in maintaining and prolonging your tan. For a luminous and long-lasting tan, it is advisable to adopt certain habits.
Regular use of after-sun helps to deeply nourish the skin and prevent flaking, a natural process that causes your tan to fade. Some after-sun products are even enriched with pro-tanning active ingredients to promote the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.
It is recommended to opt for moisturizing and restorative formulas that help maintain the skin's radiance. Products based on aloe vera, calendula or carrot are particularly popular for their soothing properties and their ability to enhance the tan
- Apply after-sun as soon as you return from the beach or the pool
- Apply after sun to clean skin morning and evening
- Apply a regenerating night cream before going to bed to restore suppleness to the skin.
So, by incorporating after-sun into your summer beauty routine, you can enjoy a luminous and long-lasting tan while preserving the health of your skin.
All our tips for an optimal tan, right here .
