The 10 Best Products to Soothe a Sunburn
Updated: Jul. 16, 2019
Despite diligent sunscreen application, it’s still possible for skin to burn. Not to worry, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite after-sun care products to help your skin heal – fast.
Quench Dehydrated Skin
Moisturizing is an important component of healthy skin in the summertime. Even if your skin shows no signs of sun damage and has been properly protected all summer, the sun is extremely dehydrating, especially to our bodies. “Skin becomes dry when it starts to lose its natural lipids, resulting in the breakdown of the skin’s surface barrier, thus preventing the skin from retaining moisture,” says Anik Kerr-Denis, head of scientific relations at Vichy. Another factor is the smaller number of sebaceous glands on the body, which are also more spread out than on our face. Read on for some of our sunburn-soothing picks:
Vichy Idéal Soleil Double Usage After Sun Care
Try Vichy Idéal Soleil Double Usage After Sun Care ($30 at mass merchandisers), which can be used on wet or dry skin and helps to soothe and keep moisture in the skin. Shea and apricot kernel oils, plus essential fatty acids have a restructuring effect on the skin barrier.
Weleda Skin Food
Essential oils of lavender, rosemary and sweet orange refreshes both the skin and the senses, while the pure lanolin soothes dry, damaged skin. Apply as needed to dry and rough skin, paying special attention to knees, elbows and heels. Super nourishing, it’s best to apply at night before bed. Weleda Skin Food, $23 at well.ca, Whole Foods Market and natural independent health food stores.
The Body Shop Pinita Colada Body Sorbet
Keep this ultra lightweight moisturizer in the fridge for an awesome burst of refreshment for the skin. Plus, the scent is ah-may-zing! The Body Shop Pinita Colada Body Sorbet, $16 at thebodyshop.ca (July 2016)
Shiseido After Sun Intense Recovery Emulsion
Good for all skin types (even sensitive), this can be used on both face and body to soothe dehydrated skin, and treat uneven skin and dark spots caused by sun exposure. Shiseido After Sun Intense Recovery Emulsion, $38 at Sephora, sephora.ca, Husdon’s Bay, thebay.com
SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel
Perfect for those with sensitive or problem skin, this oil-free serum contains cucumber and thyme to calm skin, plus plant glycosides to help minimize discolouration. The best for red noses! SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel, $72 at dermatologists offices and medi-spas nationally, skinceuticals.ca
Attitude Aftersun Melt-in Gel Calendula
This product can be used on kids and adults alike. The calendula helps soothe, while the fast absorbing gel formula is non-greasy, leaving the skin smooth and hydrated. Attitude Aftersun Melt-in Gel Calendula, $16 at attitudeliving.com
Bioderma Photoderm After Sun Mist
Spray on for instant relief of tired skin, while the intensive hydration takes care of dryness. It will soothe and cool down, all the while being hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and paraben-free. Bioderma Photoderm After Sun Mist, $20 at bioderma.ca
Aloe Vera
Of course, there’s also good old aloe vera. Keep an aloe plant on a sunny windowsill, cut off a piece of a leaf and squeeze the gel onto minor skin irritations or sunburns.
Related:
• 20 Things Your Skin Says About Your Health
• The Best Foods for Your Hair and Skin
• Quiz: What’s Your Skincare Style?
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