When it comes to fun in the sun, the first rule – one that we have hard-wired in our brains – is to apply a generous amount of sunscreen all over the face and body. Then, reapply after you go swimming, and shower. But what about afterwards? Even if you’re lucky like me, who doesn’t and never burns in the sun?
I know, I know, you all are thinking the same thing – how?! I don’t sweat easily, and have never burned. In fact, it took me 2 months of living abroad to actually get some tan going. While it may not be obvious, even with the protection of SPF 100, your skin is still “damaged” from exposure to the sun. Even if you don’t see it, there’s still a bit of skin healing to repair itself.
Why not help it a little? Today, I want to share four after-sun care products for various stages of sun exposure. What’s similar about these four products is the fact that they are made by French skincare companies and I ardently believe in the French when it comes to skincare. So if they say we need it, then we need it.
1. To Quickly Refresh the Skin
The AveneThermal Mineral Water is multi-purpose spritz is great for adding moisture to the skin. Yes, it is pretty much like water in a can but it’s not just any kind of water – it’s thermal water, which is great to soothe and soften the skin while allowing you to feel refreshed. If I’ve had a long day at work and need a little pick me up beyond coffee, I’d reach out for this and do a quick spritz all over. The same goes for sun exposure – if the skin is all flaky and hurts to touch, I’d use this first to soothe the skin before doing further treatments.
2. Slight Exposure to the Sun
The La Roche PosayPosthelios Melt-In Gel is a great alternative and what I like about it is that it can often be found in value sets. The melt-in formula is excellent for parched skin, and brief exposure to the sun.
3. Prolonged Exposure to the Sun
The BiodermaPhotoderm Après-Soleil ($23.95 for 200mL, Shoppers Drug Mart), just like the name implies is a refreshing after-sun milk-type lotion. It soothes and moisturizes the skin, while prolonging that hard-earned tan. The intensely hydrating formula protects the skin from sunburn, and the soothing ingredients ensures that the skin retails an optimal level of hydration bringing back that supple, hydrated, healthy skin. It is designed for sensitive skin, and the slight fragrance does not aggravate your already sensitive, sunburned skin. This lotion is excellent for both the face and body as well as being paraben free.
4. For Minor Sunburns
I’ve never been sunburned so I probably can’t speak too much about it, but what I do know, is the Biafine Emulsion which is a heavy-duty vaseline and Polysporin combined in one, is your to go for flaky and inflamed skin due to sunburn. My favourite thing about this product is how potent it is and the best combination of key formula’s for fun in the sun!
Now it’s your turn! What are your go-to after sun products? As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share with me comment section or through Twitter or Instagram!