By TIFFANY DODSON - published
Photo: Getty
The Best After-Sun Products For Ultimate Skin Relief
It's no surprise that summer months are usually met with loads of time spent outdoors, which can also lead to increased risk of sunburn—even with dedicated sunscreen use. "Although everyone is at risk of developing a sunburn, those with fair skin are more likely to develop a sunburn, as darker skin tones have more melanin, which may provide some protection against developing a sunburn," Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in New York City, and adviser at BioRepublic, tells BAZAAR.com.
To help minimize the sting and irritation of overexposed skin while speeding up its repair, using one of the best after-sun products in spray, gel, or lotion form is essential. When considering if a formula is right for you, Garshick recommends keeping an eye out for soothing ingredients like aloe vera and antioxidants, plus hydrating ones like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides that work to lock in much-needed moisture. Additionally, professionals note that while traditional body lotions or gel moisturizers can be helpful in healing sunburned skin, the best after-sun products include additional ingredients that provide a cooling or soothing effect that helps reduce inflammation.
"Immediately after a sunburn, it's best to avoid thick occlusive ointments, as these can trap heat," Garshick adds. "It's best to opt for lightweight formulations of creams, lotions, or gels that have soothing benefits to help calm the skin. Sprays can sometimes make it easier to get to hard-to-reach areas, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference." After some time, you can add in other products: "Once the skin becomes dry or starts to peel, it can be helpful to consider a thicker ointment such as Vaseline Healing Jelly, as it works to support the skin barrier."
For easy post-sun treatment your face and body will appreciate, we've pulled together 19 of the best after-sun products that come expert and editor approved from top brands like Sun Bum, Glossier, La Roche-Posay, and more to keep in your beach bag this summer.
This article originally appeared on Harper’s BAZAAR US.
Pros: Eco-friendly.
This refreshing aloe mist from Everyday Humans features a subtle hint of cactus flower and uses hyaluronic acid to rejuvenate skin while locking in moisture
Pros: Suitable for all skin types.
For a sheet mask option to use post-sun exposure, Garshick recommends this refreshing one from BioRepublic that contains aloe vera extract, collagen, and vitamin E. "This sheet mask works to soothe dry or irritated skin, making it perfect for after-sun use," she says.
Pros: Works for babies and toddlers.
"This relief gel helps soothe and moisturise the skin," Garshick adds. "It's safe for the whole family to use—even those with sensitive skin—as it's free of sulfates, parabens, and phthalates."
Pros: Self-tan extender..
Not only does this cooling gel help to moisturise and repair skin after sun exposure, but it also contains self-tanning actives to subtly enhance bronzed summer skin.
Pros: Contains antioxidants.
Nearly 6,200 Amazon customers are raving about La Roche-Posay's soothing, mineral-rich Thermal Spring Water, which Garshick recommends to gently refresh sunburned skin.
Pros: Self-tan extender.
This French pharmacy option for face and body from the aficionados at NUXE helps extend the life of your tan while moisturizing sensitive, dehydrated skin.
Pros: Cooling.
Fans of Mario Badescu's facial sprays should consider adding this cooling gel from the brand to their summer beauty rotation. It contains a blend of menthol and aloe to calm skin while reducing its overall sting and discomfort.
Pros: Non-greasy.
Another soothing after-sun product that's coveted by Amazon shoppers—more than 8,000 to be exact—this aloe- and coconut-based face lotion won't leave your complexion looking oily.
Pros: Reef-safe.
This lavender-scented body lotion features a vegan, reef-safe formula to soothe and refresh damaged skin.
Pros: Self-tan extender.
Here's another soothing lotion that helps extend the life of your face and body tan; this one's not only hypoallergenic, but also leaves behind a pearlescent post-sun gold glow.
Pros: Can be used as treatment mask or conditioner.
This hydrating treatment and conditioner can be applied to your hair while it's damp or dry. It uses ingredients like red algae to restore hair moisture and shine after prolonged sun exposure.