Ready, Set, Recover: All About After-Sun Lotions & How They Help Your Skin Heal Post Sun Exposure

When you’re having fun in the sun, it’s easy to lose track of time. We may leave our homes wearing sunscreen and being sun-aware. However, it is not the only thing that may shield your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Because even after constant reapplication, it may leave you with a faint tan or sunburn. So what exactly will be the best? *Drum Rolls* Here’s introducing “After-Sun Lotion,” often known as sunscreen’s better half.

That’s why you need to invest in an after-sun cream or lotion to guarantee your skin heals effectively after sun damage. Ahead, we’ve compiled an intensive guide just for you. Keep scrolling to get your questions answered.

What Does An After-Sun Lotion Exactly Do?

In clear words, an after-sun lotion is a lightweight and moisturising product that is applied after using sunscreen. It works to restore the skin’s moisture levels while building a barrier to trap heat in your skin that possibly leads to skin damage. After-sun lotions also have anti-inflammatory properties that help to lock in moisture while speeding up wound healing. It also aids in the reduction of radiation damage, which can occur after prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Here’s What To Look For In An After-Sun Lotion

A good after-sun lotion or cream is a travel must-have, but it is often an afterthought, lingering at the bottom of the checklist. Here’s a list of things to consider before buying an after-sun lotion.

Be Specific

Because not all after-sun products are created equal, you should look for a formula that addresses your unique needs. Some are intended to heal and moisturise skin that has become dry and inflamed as a result of UV exposure, while others contain self-tanners to offer you long-lasting colour. Traditional soothing after-sun lotions are excellent for easing dryness and cooling the skin after a day in the sun. But for a more severe sunburn, look for products with burn-soothing ingredients such as aloe.

Opt For Non-Sticky Formulations

 If you’ve ever drenched yourself in pure aloe vera gel after getting too much sun exposure, you know how uncomfortable it can be (despite being incredibly soothing). There are countless after-sun products on the market that contain a high percentage of aloe vera as well as other ingredients that make the formula feel considerably more pleasant. Lotions and creams, as well as sprays, offer a smoother feel and leave less residue than pure aloe.

Gravitate Towards Antioxidant-Enriched Products

Look for a product that is also high in antioxidants since they will aid in the neutralisation of free radicals caused by UV rays. Enter: vitamins C and E. Dermatologists also recommend products containing DNA repair enzymes, which help in the recovery of sun damage caused by UV rays. These ingredients aren’t commonly found in after-sun creams, but they’re worth remembering for after your skin has calmed down.

How Do You Use After-Sun Lotions?

Apply after-sun lotions and gels using your fingertips, just like you’d with a regular body moisturiser. However, if the lotion contains hydrocortisone or self-tanner, make sure to wash your hands afterward so your fingers do not really stain.

How Frequently Should You Use After-Sun Creams Or Lotions?

While most after-sun products can be used as often as needed for relief, if the product contains hydrocortisone, it should not be used more than three times per day and for more than a week at a time. If your after-sun product contains a progressive self-tanner, use it once daily until you reach your preferred shade, then use it every few days to keep your colour.

Make way for after-sun lotions ‘coz it’s your SPF’s BFF!

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