Sun exposure is necessary and has some benefits for the body, such as vitamin D synthesis, which is essential for bone health. However, it is important to note that excessive sun exposure without adequate protection can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, it is advisable to take a balanced approach toward sun exposure and an appropriate after-sun care routine.
Do you want to know how to do it? In this article by Jess Beauty, we will tell you what you should do to take care of your skin post-sun and the great benefits it provides, as well as its risks.
Best care routine post sun
An after-sun skincare routine can help soothe, hydrate, and repair damage caused by sun exposure. Here is a guide to an effective routine:
Step 1: Gentle cleaning
Gently cleanse your face and body with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to remove sunscreen, sweat, and debris. Avoid cleaners that are abrasive or contain irritating ingredients. Use Face Reset Cleanser by Jess Beauty, to nourish and cleanse your skin.
Step 2: Cool down and hydrate
- Cool the skin with cold compresses or a cool shower or bath to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
- Apply a moisturizing lotion or cream all over your body, paying special attention to the areas most exposed to the sun.
- Look for products that contain soothing and nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, calendula, or hyaluronic acid.
- You can also use a serum such as Shine Bright Serum to moisturize your skin and revitalize it.
Step 3: Specific facial care
- Use a face cream or serum with repairing and antioxidant ingredients, such as vitamin C, E, or peptides. These ingredients will help fight free radicals and stimulate skin regeneration.
- Once a week, apply a hydrating and soothing face mask to provide additional hydration and soothe the skin.
- You can opt for the Post Workout Gel Mask, specially designed to be used after skin exposure to stressful situations or extreme heat. This gel nourishes, reduces inflammation, regenerates, and hydrates the skin.
Step 4: Lip care
Don't forget to take care of your lips, which may also have been affected by sun exposure. Apply a moisturizing and protective lip balm to keep your lips soft and prevent dryness.
Step 5: Drink water and stay hydrated
Hydration from within is essential for skin health. Drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids and keep your skin hydrated.
Step 6: Continued Protection
Even if sun exposure is over, continue to protect your skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an adequate sun protection factor (SPF 30 or higher) every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
Sun exposure, yes or no?
Sun exposure has both potential health benefits and risks.
Like everything, excesses are never good, so the best thing to do is to expose yourself to the sun moderately, as long as it is not harmful to the skin.
Here are the associated benefits and harms so that you can balance exposure and receive the best of the sun:
Damage from sun exposure
- Sunburn: Excessive exposure to the sun, especially without protection, can cause sunburn, which is characterized by redness, pain, swelling, and in some cases, blistering of the skin.
- Premature aging: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can accelerate the aging process of the skin, causing wrinkles, age spots, loss of elasticity, and sagging.
- Hyperpigmentation and sun spots: Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause excessive melanin production, resulting in dark spots on the skin, known as sun spots or age spots.
- Cellular and DNA Damage: UV rays can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin and damage cells, including cellular DNA. It can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
Benefits of sun exposure
- Vitamin D synthesis: Sun exposure is necessary for the body to produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and plays a role in the immune system.
- Mood enhancement: Sun exposure can stimulate the production of serotonin, a hormone that influences mood and can help fight depression and improve mental well-being.
- Circadian Rhythm Regulation: Sun exposure during the day can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm, which has a positive impact on sleep quality and hormonal function.
- Psoriasis and other skin conditions: In some cases, controlled sun exposure can help improve symptoms of certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis, acne, and eczema.
After sun products
As mentioned, after sun exposure, it is important to care for and nourish the skin to help repair damage caused by UV rays.
Here are some products for the best after-sun care:
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and cooling properties. Apply pure aloe vera gel or products containing aloe vera to soothe irritated skin and help regenerate it.
- Enriched moisturizers: Opt for moisturizing creams or lotions that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, coconut oil, or shea butter. These ingredients will help restore skin hydration and softness after sun exposure.
- Moisturizing masks: Moisturizing face or body masks can provide an extra boost of hydration and nourishment to post-sun skin. Look for ceramides, antioxidants, or plant extracts masks, that help soothe and hydrate the skin.
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Vitamin C Products: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect and repair skin after sun exposure. Look for vitamin C serums or creams that help reduce inflammation, improve skin radiance, and stimulate collagen production.
- After-sun or cooling lotions: There are specific products designed for post-sun care, such as after-sun or cooling lotions. These products often contain soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, or menthol, which soothe the skin and reduce irritation.
- Lip balms: Lips can also suffer from the drying effects of the sun. Use moisturizing lip balms with beeswax, shea butter, or essential oils to keep your lips soft and protected.
Find the best products for your skincare at jessbeauty.com and enjoy healthy and radiant skin.