The warm embrace of the sun’s rays can be both rejuvenating and uplifting. Spending time outdoors under the sun can provide us with a healthy dose of vitamin D and that coveted sun-kissed glow. But 96% of Americans aren’t wearing sunscreen daily, which means the sun could be having a damaging effect on your skin.
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause damage to our skin cells, leading to premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer. And in the short term, sunburn can leave our skin feeling dry, tight, and uncomfortable.
So, looking after your skin whenever it comes in contact with sunlight is essential.
Nurturing your skin: post-sun skincare routine
Cool off and hydrate
After sun exposure, start by taking a cool shower to lower your skin’s temperature and soothe any inflammation. Be gentle with your skin, and avoid using harsh exfoliants or soaps that can strip away natural oils.
After your shower, apply a hydrating moisturizer to help replenish lost moisture. Look for a product that contains ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to lock in hydration.
Soothing treatments
If you’ve spent a little too much time in the sun and have ended up with sunburn, soothing treatments can be your best friends. Aloe vera gel is a natural remedy that has anti-inflammatory properties and can help calm irritated skin.
You can also consider using products with ingredients like chamomile, oatmeal, and calendula to reduce redness and discomfort.
Moisturize regularly
Even after the initial post-sun recovery period, it’s important to maintain a consistent moisturizing routine. Regular moisturizing helps maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Opt for a moisturizer that is designed for post-sun care and offers both hydration and repair benefits. Keeping your skin well-moisturized can help prevent peeling and prolong the longevity of your sun-kissed glow.
Protect and prevent
While caring for your skin after sun exposure is crucial, prevention is equally important. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before heading outdoors. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.
Achieving a sun-kissed glow safely
It’s understandable that many of us desire that radiant sun-kissed glow. However, exposing our skin to excessive sunlight can have detrimental effects. Luckily, there are safer alternatives to achieve a tan without compromising our skin’s health.
Instead of basking under the sun’s intense rays, consider using self-tanning products to achieve the glow you desire. Self-tanners such as mousse and tanning drops provide a way to enhance your skin’s appearance without subjecting it to harmful UV radiation.
Tan Luxe, says: “Getting a natural, and healthy glow, doesn’t always mean spending time in direct sunlight for hours. Instead, you can get a great tan, which is better for your skin, through a bottle.
Knowing how to apply it correctly, however, can make the difference between a good glow and a patchy problem.”
When applying self-tanner, you should avoid:
- Working out: Intense physical activity right after applying self-tanner can lead to uneven fading and patchiness.
- Wearing tight clothing: Tight clothes can rub against your skin and cause the tan to rub off prematurely.
- Sweating: Excessive sweating immediately after application can disrupt the development of the tan, making it lighter or patchier than you wanted.
- Getting your nails done: Nail treatments involving soaking or nail varnish remover can fade the tan on your hands.
As much as we love the sun’s warmth and the glow it gives our skin, it’s essential to prioritize our skin’s health and well-being. Post-sun skincare routines, including moisturizing, hydration, and soothing treatments, can help mitigate the effects of sun exposure. And for that well-rounded sun-kissed glow, opting for self-tanning products can be a safer way to achieve your desired look.
