Post-sun skincare should obviously start with pre-sun skincare, so don’t scrimp on the SPF this summer. But once you’re home, there are steps you can take to make sure that your extra sun exposure doesn’t leave its mark on your complexion.

Here are some steps you can follow to look and feel your best all summer

THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS

Cleanse

Start by cleansing your face to remove any sunscreen, sweat, and build-up that have accumulated throughout the day. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to avoid further irritating sun-exposed skin. Check out my roundup of the best cleansers, here.

Soothe and Cool

If your skin feels hot or irritated, apply a cooling face mist to provide immediate relief. Aloe vera is effective for soothing sunburned skin, so invest in some aloe gel if you do get a little too much sun.

Hydration Part One

After cleansing and refreshing, apply a hydrating serum to replenish moisture lost during sun exposure. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, helping to plump and hydrate the skin.

Hydration Part Two

Follow up with a rich, hydrating moisturiser to lock in the hydrating benefits of the serum and provide additional moisture. Check out my roundup of the best moisturisers, here.

Time For A Mask

For an extra hit of hydration, use a sheet mask and leave it on for 15 minutes to allow your skin to absorb the hydrating ingredients fully. These are particularly great when travelling, and you can even apply one on the plane home.

Eyes and Lips

The delicate skin around your eyes and on your lips needs extra special attention after sun exposure. Apply a hydrating eye cream every night before bed and wear sunglasses when out and about. For your lips, start with a gentle lip scrub to remove any dry skin, then follow up with a nourishing lip balm.

Long-Term Post-Sun Skincare

You should also consider adding antioxidant skincare products into your routine to combat free radical damage, along with overnight repair products like a rich night cream. And while post-sun exfoliation isn’t a good idea, once skin has settled you can incorporate your refreshing exfoliation routine again, too.

READ NEXT: Seasonal Summer Fruits | Does Manifesting Work?

© Wendy Rowe. All Rights Reserved.