Rating: 10 best after-sun creams according to BeautyHack editors

The best after-sun repair creams

If you have had plenty of time to soak up the sun, so that your skin is not damaged by ultraviolet rays and acquires a beautiful bronze tint, use a restorative product. It will moisturize, soothe and nourish the irritated epidermis, and also create a barrier film that prevents moisture evaporation and the appearance of peeling in the future.

Histomer Histan After Sun Special Cream

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

Universal after-sun cream from Histomer has a rich texture, quickly absorbing, but leaving a comfortable protective film that will prevent flaking on the skin. The formula of Histan After Sun Special Cream is dermatologically tested and is suitable for use even by allergy sufferers.

The product contains vitamin E, bisabolol, stem cells of centella asiatica, chamomile, mallow and prickly pear, as well as a complex based on silk tree. They instantly moisturize and nourish the epidermis, eliminate redness, restore hydrolipid balance and have an antioxidant effect.

Advantages:

Large packaging volume (400 ml);
Economical;
Versatility - suitable for the whole family;
Good composition;
Hypoallergenic formula;
Complex restorative effect.

Flaws:

High price.

Looking for a universal after-sun skin care product that will suit every member of the family? Histomer cream is the ideal option in your case.

Uriage Bariesun Soothing Cream After Sun

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

94%

buyers recommend this product

A revitalizing balm from the pharmacy brand Uriage will eliminate dryness and redness on sun-kissed skin. The dense but non-greasy consistency of the product is absorbed in a couple of minutes, leaving a comfortable protective film.

The combination of thermal water, hyaluronic acid, aquaspongins, as well as vitamins E and C has a moisturizing, regenerating, softening, soothing, rejuvenating and antioxidant effect. The cream will relieve redness, itching, peeling and other manifestations of sunburn of the skin.

Advantages:

Rich texture;
Eliminates signs of skin dehydration and redness;
Rich composition;
Intense calming effect;
Sold in various volumes (50 and 200 ml).

Flaws:

Leaves a film after application.

The product is suitable for those with very dry skin that reacts negatively to prolonged contact with the sun's rays.

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Sun Soothing After Sun Milk

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

L'Oreal Paris After Sun Milk, like a silk veil, is absorbed into the skin without leaving any residue, restoring it after prolonged exposure to the sun. The product for face and body skin with an unobtrusive cosmetic aroma contains shea butter, tea and corn extracts, glycerin and caffeine.

The formula has a pronounced softening, regenerating, moisturizing, tightening and antioxidant effect. The milk is very popular among lovers of a golden tan, who appreciate it for its affordable price, ease of use and excellent caring effect.

Advantages:

Light texture;
Pleasant aroma;
Absorbs without stickiness or film;
Versatility;
Restores skin;
Affordable price.

Flaws:

There are many synthetic components in the composition.

If you are looking for high-quality but affordable skin care after sun exposure, pay attention to L'Oreal Paris Revitalizing Milk.

Cooling after-sun milk from Lierac

Even if you approached the choice of sunscreen with all responsibility and were not lazy to renew it every two hours (yes, such beauty heroes exist!), the skin of the body after tanning in the sun desperately needs coolness. Sunissime Lait Reparateur Anti-Age Global milk from Lierac solves this problem: thanks to the special Cryo Effect Tachnology technology, it moisturizes the skin in seconds, reducing the temperature on the surface of the epidermis by 3.3 (!) degrees. The product would be great with just this option, but in addition it restores the skin, reduces the signs of photoaging (according to two indicators: the appearance of wrinkles and loss of elasticity), the product has an intense soothing effect due to the content of omega-3 and 9 fatty acids, and promotes the appearance of a beautiful tan with an even color thanks to a special peptide that improves the quality of the tan and prolongs its durability.

The best SOS after sun creams

Special SOS creams will eliminate redness, burning, excessive sensitivity and prevent the formation of peeling and blisters after sunburn. Apply a thick layer of them to the affected areas several times a day to quickly get rid of painful sensations.

Vichy Capital Ideal Soleil After-Sun SOS Balm

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

A gentle balm from Vichy will provide first aid for sunburn and keep the skin smooth and soft. The product, intended for all types of epidermis, restores its integrity and healthy appearance in just 24 hours, preventing further evaporation of moisture from the cells.

Contains thermal water, soybean and shea butter, vitamin E and epilobe extract. This mix quickly relieves pain, itching, burning, redness and hypersensitivity of the skin, and also provides a regenerating, moisturizing, nourishing and softening effect.

The balm is a real godsend for tanning enthusiasts, because it prevents the formation of melanomas, so with it you can enjoy the sun's rays without harming your health.

Advantages:

Light but nourishing texture;
Instantly relieves pain after sunburn;
Eliminates external manifestations of sunburn in 1 day;
Reduces the risk of developing skin cancer;
Complex caring effect;
Restores the integrity of the hydrolipidic barrier.

Flaws:

The price is above average.

Do you sunbathe without sunscreen, knowing that you are causing severe damage to your skin? Reduce the negative effect of this procedure by using Vichy SOS balm.

Clarins Masque SOS Coups de Soleil

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

The hot summer new product from Clarins is an express remedy to combat the effects of mild sunburn. The leave-on mask contains extracts of aloe vera, mimosa, sunflower and shea butter.

This cocktail intensively moisturizes and nourishes the skin, eliminates redness and itching, and also protects the epidermis from further drying and the negative effects of free radicals.

The light creamy gel consistency is absorbed without stickiness, but leaves behind a pleasant feeling of coolness and a fresh aroma. The manufacturer recommends treating affected skin with the product up to 4 times a day for 5 days. Then the redness and itching will soon be replaced by a spectacular bronze tan.

Advantages:

Light consistency is quickly absorbed;
Pronounced calming effect;
Provides comprehensive care and prevents skin flaking;
Economical.

Flaws:

Requires long-term and frequent use.

If fair skin reacts with redness and burning even after an hour of exposure to the scorching sun, it’s time to arm yourself with a cream mask from Clarins.

How to protect your skin from ultraviolet radiation?

In order to reduce the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation, it is necessary to use special means. They are applied to the skin immediately before going outside.

Typically, sunscreen is easily absorbed within 10 to 15 minutes. For very dry skin, cosmetologists recommend using milk or lotion first.

Skin care: what is best to apply after sunbathing?

To restore and soothe your skin after sunbathing, you need to take proper care of it. Our recommendations :

After returning from the beach, you should not take a shower immediately. You should give your skin a little rest. The water should not be too hot, otherwise the protective layer of the epidermis will easily be destroyed. In addition, high water temperatures can easily cause redness and peeling. A contrast shower helps to quickly soothe the skin. 10 minutes is enough for the pores to open.
Restoration of the epidermis is impossible without nutrition and hydration. Especially if the skin is too dry or peeling. To do this, you need to make various body masks as often as possible, as well as use special lotions. It is best to moisturize it with products containing thermal water and vitamin E. It is important to add glycerin and essential oils to homemade masks. They not only nourish the epidermis, but also help it retain moisture. Thanks to this, peeling can be prevented.
If your skin itches after sunbathing, it means there is a burn on it. The second reason for this reaction of the body is an allergy to ultraviolet rays. A burn is always accompanied by redness. When scabies is caused by an allergic reaction, blisters with liquid appear on the body. Methyluracil ointment or Fenistil gel relieves itching perfectly. Treatment should not only be superficial, so it is important to take antihistamines and anti-allergenic drugs.
If a burn appears after being in the sun, you can remove it with Panthenol. But before you treat, you need to dry the burn a little. You can calm him down using traditional methods. For this, raw potatoes, sour cream or aloe juice are usually used. These products have antiseptic moisturizing properties that promote rapid healing. In addition, they perfectly relieve redness. This type of body care allows you to quickly get rid of burns.
Often after the burn heals, the skin peels off a lot. In order to quickly get rid of the dead layer, you need to use scrubs. In this case, the product should not only remove dead skin cells, but also moisturize. Dry skin really needs the good nutritional properties of cosmetics. Proper care of tanned skin helps to quickly restore it. Therefore, if it peels off, you should use a homemade scrub based on sugar and olive oil.
White spots on the skin after tanning can be removed only by identifying the cause of their appearance. If they appear due to a fungus, then it is necessary to use antifungal creams. During treatment, it is better to reduce your time in the sun to a minimum. Caring for such skin should be especially gentle. It is also recommended to visit a dermatologist who can prescribe the correct treatment.

The best tanning creams

Does your tan not last on your body? You probably have fair skin, which is the reason for the slow synthesis of melanin, a natural pigment responsible for the speed of obtaining and maintaining a tan on the body. Tanning creams containing a complex of caring components, carotenoids or bronzers will come to your aid.

Lancaster Golden Tan Maximizer After Sun Lotion

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

The new product from the Lancaster brand does not contain parabens and mineral oil, providing comprehensive care and maintaining a bronze skin tone for a long time. The light consistency of the lotion is quickly absorbed, leaving behind an unobtrusive aroma.

The product contains buriti and shea butter, bisabolol and caffeine, orange and echinacea extracts, as well as panthenol. They activate melanin synthesis in the body, soothe, soften, moisturize, smooth and tighten the skin.

The lotion perfectly restores the epidermis after prolonged exposure to the sun, maintaining the resulting attractive body shade for a long time.

Advantages:

Rich composition without harmful components;
Provides comprehensive skin care;
Pleasant aroma;
Quickly absorbed;
Prolongs the durability of the tan.

Flaws:

High price for 125 ml.

This lotion is recommended for those with fair skin that tans slowly but quickly loses its attractive shade. It will help maintain a golden tan and well-groomed body appearance.

Caudalie Tan Prolonging After-Sun Lotion

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

Using the new product from Caudalie, even the owner of aristocratically pale skin will be able to remain in the image of a mulatto for a long time. A multifunctional product with a weightless, fast-absorbing texture that provides comprehensive skin care and locks in your tan.

This effect is achieved due to the presence of coconut oil, grape hydrolate, aloe extract and beta-carotene in the formula. The lotion is applied to the face and body, instantly eliminating tightness and redness, giving the skin smoothness, density, a dark complexion and a well-groomed glow. A pleasant bonus is the delicious aroma of coconut and monoi, which will remain an unobtrusive veil on the body for several hours.

Advantages:

Calming effect;
Complex caring effect;
Strengthens tan;
Prevents the appearance of peeling;
Light texture;
Pleasant aroma.

Flaws:

It's not cheap.

Do you like bronze skin tones and tropical scents? You will definitely appreciate this new product from Caudalie.

Composition and effect of creams and other after-sun products

Skin moisturizers primarily contain plant oils that maintain tissue firmness and elasticity. It also contains vitamins A, E and C, which are necessary to accelerate the process of regeneration of damaged cells after exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Plant extracts, such as aloe, are necessary to treat microcracks and restore the integrity of the epidermis after sunburn.

Main characteristics of after-sun products

After-sun skin moisturizers have the following properties:

First of all, after-sun products cool the skin, normalizing the local temperature, relieve swelling and redness, and even out the tone.
Moisturizers are necessary to restore the water balance of cells and prevent premature aging of the skin, it is possible to restore firmness and elasticity.
After-sun cosmetics maintain youthful and beautiful skin and prevent the appearance of wrinkles.
Moisturizing cosmetics help you maintain a beautiful golden skin tone and prevent your tan from peeling off in chunks.
After applying cosmetics to the skin, a protective film is created that does not allow the evaporation of moisture and beneficial substances that are necessary for the normal functioning of skin cells.
The process of regeneration of damaged cells after ultraviolet exposure is activated.

Also interesting: Swimwear for an even tan, advantages and disadvantages

The best cooling after sun creams

If you experience discomfort after sunbathing, use an after-sun cream with a cooling effect. Thanks to its cryo-effect, it will refresh and soothe the skin, while the restorative and moisturizing components in the formula neutralize the damage caused by prolonged contact with ultraviolet radiation.

Dior Bronze After Sun Ultra Fresh Monoi Balm

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

Take a dip in the cool ocean with this Dior balm. The weightless melting consistency of the product is distributed over the body without streaks and is quickly absorbed, leaving behind a slight chill and a pleasant perfumed aroma.

Monoi, mango, coconut oil, as well as extracts of gardenia, aromatic fagrea and vitamin E in the formula moisturize, nourish, soothe and soften the epidermis, and also provide a long-lasting refreshing effect.

By including this balm in your body care on vacation, you will forget about discomfort after prolonged exposure to the sun, get an even bronze tan and maintain the beauty and youth of your skin.

Advantages:

The rich composition provides comprehensive skin care;
Beautiful aroma;
Optimal texture;
Comfortable cooling effect.

Flaws:

A little expensive.

Looking for intensive care for sensitive skin on holiday? Dior balm, thanks to its pronounced refreshing, soothing and restorative effect, will satisfy the needs of the capricious epidermis.

La Roche-Posay Posthelios Hydragel

★★★★★

editorial assessment

98%

buyers recommend this product

Cooling after-sun hydrogel from La Roche-Posay is a godsend for those who cannot tolerate thick nourishing creams in the hot season. The product contains 78% thermal water, which gives it a light, quickly absorbed texture and no stickiness.

Shea butter, almond oil, as well as niacinamide, selenium and vitamin E in the formula soften, nourish, moisturize and soothe the skin, neutralize oxidative processes in tissues and prevent the formation of pigmentation.

The product for face and body leaves behind a pleasant cooling sensation, quickly soothing the epidermis irritated by the sun's rays. Posthelios Hydragel is the ideal after-sun care for family use.

Advantages:

Light, quickly absorbed texture;
No stickiness;
Suitable for the whole family;
Pleasant cooling effect;
Complex restorative effect;
Sold in various volumes (200 and 400 ml).

Flaws:

Sold only through pharmacy chains.

When going on vacation with a small child, you don’t want to take a lot of cosmetics with you for everyone. This hydrogel from Posthelios Hydragel is suitable for both adults and children, and the volume of the bubble is enough for the entire vacation.

Garnier Ambre Solaire “Expert Protection” Refreshing After Sun Cream

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

93%

buyers recommend this product

The light texture of the product with unobtrusive notes of grapes is quickly absorbed without forming a residue, but leaving behind a comfortable feeling of coolness that lasts up to 30 minutes. Shea butter, vitamin E and natural wax restore, moisturize, soften and nourish the skin, and also provide an antioxidant effect.

The hypoallergenic formula is suitable for use on the face and body, even for those with sensitive skin. Garnier's refreshing after-sun cream quickly soothes, tones and restores the dermis even after sunburn.

Advantages:

Comfortable cooling effect;
Complex caring effect;
Eliminates the effects of sunburn;
Versatile;
Has a light texture;
Reasonable price.

Flaws:

Not enough hydration for very dry skin.

If you have normal or oily skin and love to sunbathe, you will definitely like the refreshing and inexpensive Garnier Ambre Solaire cream.

Product overview: creams, sprays, milks, etc.

Stores and pharmacies offer a very wide selection of so-called beauty products after active sun exposure. Their actions are largely similar: cooling, soothing, restoring and moisturizing the skin. However, there is always the possibility of choosing a product, for example, by texture (most suitable for your skin type) or by the principle of application.

The line of cosmetics intended for application after sunbathing includes the following varieties:

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Face and body cream

It can be in different packaging (tube, jar, bottle with dispenser) and have a variety of textures. A rich cream is suitable for very dry skin, a light cream with an airy texture is suitable for sensitive epidermis with traces of a slight sunburn. Such a product may indicate the direction of action: nourishing, protective, moisturizing. But, it is better if the cream is combined, including all these effects;

After sun gel

Gel, unlike cream, contains more water and glycerin, therefore delivering maximum hydration. This product spreads well over the body and is suitable for application to the face and other sensitive areas of the skin.

Body milk

Thanks to its delicate consistency, the product is easy to apply and is perfectly absorbed into the skin, soothing it after sunbathing. In addition, the milk has a pleasant cooling effect.

After sun balm

In addition to the main actions aimed at moisturizing and soothing the epidermis, this product will enhance the tan. They also use the balm to eliminate the unpleasant consequences of tanning - peeling, redness.

Sos lotion

The special complex included in the product will quickly help bring the skin in order after aggressive sunlight. Lotions, to a greater extent, are “responsible” for delivering the necessary moisture to the skin and gently cleansing it of sweat and dust.

Body spray

This product, like other similar after-sun products, moisturizes and soothes the skin, eliminating possible discomfort. The spray is easy to apply; it is sprayed and rubbed into tanned skin.

After sun oil

Oily products are not recommended for sunburned skin as they clog pores. But these oils are specially designed for application to skin damaged by ultraviolet radiation.

They contain vegetable oily liquids of jojoba, shea butter, macadamia, grape seeds, etc., thanks to which the product copes well with inflammation and helps soothe, moisturize and soften the epidermis after sunbathing.

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Masks

Special compositions of masks are designed for application to the skin immediately after sunbathing or at night. Moisturizing masks are applied to a clean body for 10 minutes, after which they are removed with a napkin. They will cool and soothe the skin. Night masks will “work” while a person sleeps, and will help restore water balance and activate the regeneration process.

The best after sun creams for children

Summer skin care for babies involves the use of products with a high sun protection factor and, of course, after-sun creams that will restore and soothe the delicate epidermis. Do not use products for adults for such purposes, because they often contain silicones and plant extracts that can cause prickly heat and allergies. By choosing any of the listed products to care for the skin of your child’s face and body, you will definitely not harm his health.

Helan Sole Bimbi After Sun Milk

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

Delicate milk from the Italian brand Helan pleases with its excellent composition and impeccable caring properties.

The organic cocktail formula contains olive oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera juice, chamomile and calendula extracts, as well as vitamin E. They soothe and soften the skin, restore the integrity of the hydrolipidic barrier, neutralize oxidative reactions in tissues, eliminate signs of dehydration and provide an anti-inflammatory effect.

The light consistency of the product is absorbed in a matter of seconds, leaving a weightless barrier that protects against moisture evaporation from skin cells. With this milk, your little fidget will be able to enjoy the sun's rays without the risk of peeling, redness, itching and other unpleasant skin reactions.

Advantages:

Cute packaging design;
Organic composition;
Light, quickly absorbed consistency;
Restores the hydrolipid mantle of the skin;
Complex caring effect;
Small expense.

Flaws:

High price.

Are you choosing safe organic cosmetics for your child? In this case, you will definitely appreciate the composition and effect of Helan Sole Bimbi after-sun milk.

Mustela Bebe Lait Après-Soleil Afer Sun Lotion

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

98%

buyers recommend this product

Milk yoghurt from Mustela, like a mother’s tender hands, will instantly soothe delicate baby skin after being exposed to active sunlight. The melting consistency of the product is easily distributed over the body and absorbed without a film.

A duet of shea and avocado oils provides a restorative, protective, softening and moisturizing effect, quickly eliminating redness. The hypoallergenic formula, developed under pediatric and dermatological control, will keep the skin soft and healthy, bringing only benefits to the baby.

Advantages:

Light texture;
Absorbs quickly without a sticky film;
Intense calming effect;
Complex caring effect;
Safe composition.

Flaws:

Small bottle volume (125 ml).

Mustela milk is recommended for summer care of children's sensitive epidermis prone to atopic dermatitis. Mothers with dry and dehydrated skin of the face and body will also appreciate it.

After-sun shower gel from Institut Esthederm

Micellar After Sun Shower Gel from Institut Esthederm is designed to cleanse your face and body after a day at the beach. The product perfectly removes sunscreen products (as well as chemical and physical filters in their composition) from the surface of the skin, salt, sand, chlorine, but does not contain soap, sulfates and silicone. Instead, the creators added moisturizing and softening ingredients: rhamnose, which soothes sun-heated skin, cellular water and coconut glucoside, turning an ordinary bath product into a care product. Makes the tan even.

Which after sun cream is best to buy?

Pay attention to the texture of the product. Thick butters are undesirable in the care of sun-damaged skin, as they lie on the skin like a film. Give preference to light textures that are readily absorbed and do not pill after application.

Your body skin is not hyper-dry, but do you know when to stop sunbathing? Take a closer look at products with a moisturizing and refreshing effect that contain hyaluronic acid, aloe extract and panthenol - this will be enough.
If the skin does not take well to tanning, but willingly blushes, you will need restorative creams with shea butter, soybean, corn, coconut, as well as extracts of Asian centella, chamomile or green tea.

The skin of people of Slavic appearance is extremely reluctant to tan, quickly burns and peels, soon returning to its original shade.

Sunburn of the skin is a common occurrence in the first days of staying at the seaside. We recommend that you do not experiment with homemade recipes, but arm yourself with SOS cream in advance. It will quickly eliminate pain, redness, itching and restore the damaged hydrolipidic barrier of the epidermis.

Remember that children's vulnerable skin also needs post-care after exposure to the sun. Do not experiment with universal products on babies, because they can cause allergies and skin diseases. Give preference to creams without silicones and mineral oil, but with vegetable oils, calendula and chamomile extracts.

Pay attention to the presence of vitamin E in the cream. A powerful antioxidant that neutralizes oxidative reactions in skin cells, prevents the risk of developing tumors, premature aging and provides an intense moisturizing and nourishing effect.

How to choose and apply after-sun lotion

In order for the lotion to help quickly restore skin health after sunbathing and maintain the resulting tan, you need to know some rules for choosing a specific product and its use.

Here's what experts advise:

After-sun lotion should contain several types of cosmetic oils, mint or lemon balm extracts, as well as calendula, chamomile and aloe vera. It is highly desirable that it be enriched with vitamins - such a complex will not only help cool, soothe and moisturize the skin, but will also “work” as a prevention of early aging.
You should avoid lotions that contain extracts of fresh cucumbers or lemons among their ingredients. These products have a whitening effect that will cause your tan to fade quickly. But these same remedies will come in handy if excessively long exposure to sunlight has led to darkening and highlighting of age spots.
Lotions are stored in the refrigerator and used without preheating. It is believed that in this case the products will have a maximum therapeutic effect and will be able to quickly and deeply penetrate the layers of the dermis.
Before starting body treatment, you need to take a shower - cool, barely warm, but in no case hot. Shower jets should not be too strong, as this can injure sun-damaged skin. You cannot use a rough washcloth; scrubs are not allowed.
The lotion is applied, first of all, to the knees, back of the neck, lower back - these places are most often exposed to the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, but at the same time they are also “forgotten” during the application of the after-sun product.
If sunbathing is not done correctly, the skin will be too dry and the lotion will be instantly absorbed. In this case, you need to immediately apply a second layer of the product and wait for it to be absorbed again.
If you use a lotion with the effect of enhancing/preserving a tan, then you need to extend the procedure for 3-5 days. In this case, it will be possible to make the shade of tanned skin brighter and more pronounced. But you can treat the skin only once a day in order to be able to control the process of tanning and stop in time.

We recommend reading the article about after-sun cream with a cooling effect. In it you will learn how to choose and determine the effectiveness of after-sun creams with a cooling effect, as well as the best after-sun cooling products. And here is more information about sunscreen lotion.

After-sun products in lotion form are not very popular; people prefer creams, milks, sprays and gels. But dermatologists consider them more suitable for treating skin exposed to ultraviolet radiation - liquid, with a light structure and rich in benefits for dermal cells, they will have a maximum restorative effect.