Many of us think that an aftersun product is only effective if you have been severely sunburned. Wrong! Aftersun, like sunscreen, is a staple in your summer beauty bag. We explain why!
Why Use Aftersun?
After a long day in the sun in the garden, a walk in the hot sun, or a nice lunch break without sunscreen, you will develop a little tan, or a face as red as a lobster; whatever the color, your skin is suffering from sun damage! When exposed to sunlight, the skin automatically produces melanin. Melanin is a natural pigment that protects the skin from sun spots and other sun damage, but it is also the cause of brown (or red) spots. This is why it is essential to treat your skin with aftersun after sun exposure (yes, even after a half-hour of drinking on the terrace).
What Exactly Is Aftersun Care?
After sun exposure, the accumulated sunburn will further develop. It can take up to 24 hours for the full effects of time spent in the sun to appear! Therefore, even if you don’t notice the red color immediately, it may develop overnight. In addition, the sun dehydrates the skin, causing it to peel immediately. Therefore, it is always good to shower and rinse off the sun cream and moisturize the skin well after sunbathing.
Will Body Lotions Work as Well?
Now we know that some people might be thinking, “Then why not just use a facial moisturizer and a body lotion or cream?
Aftersun is actually a body lotion with a more specific effect. The main difference between aftersun and regular body lotions is that aftersun not only moisturizes but also contains refreshing and soothing ingredients such as aloe vera.
Aftersun lotions are also more lightweight than body lotions. Because lotions and creams such as body butters are greasy, they hold the sun’s stored heat in the skin. Water-based aftersun, on the other hand, cools the skin. Therefore, if you are sunburned, you should always choose an aftersun lotion.
How Is Aftersun Used?
After sun exposure, it is essential to wash off all sunscreen residue. Therefore, shower first and then apply a good amount of aftersun. While a cold shower on a sunny day is tempting, it is wise to take a lukewarm shower when you are sunburned. Cold showers close the pores and keep the body warm. A lukewarm shower opens the pores. This will allow heat to escape from the body and enable aftersun and other care products to penetrate better. Apply Aftersun care products generously and massage well.
Tip: Refrigerate aftersun before use for best results.
Natural Aftersun Care
Aloe vera and aftersun are often mentioned in the same breath and for a good reason. The thick, pointed leaves of this tropical plant contain a gel that has been used since ancient Egyptian times to heal damaged skin.
Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, as well as its deeply moisturizing properties.
Aloe vera gel can be obtained directly from the plant, but you don’t necessarily have to slaughter your green roommate if you don’t want. For example, you can also try to find aftersun products with aloe vera or any other refreshing and natural aloe vera gel products.
Preventing Sunburn
Remember that aftersun is a care product, not a panacea. It can cool reddened skin and moisturize thirsty skin, but it cannot repair skin damage caused by sunburn. Therefore, it is always wiser to apply your sunscreen before any kind of sun exposure!
Share your favourite aftersun care products or remedies with us in the comments below!