Brush Up On Your After-Sun Skincare With These Picks

Sun's no fun when there's damage done

We’ll say it again: sun protection is necessary. But while there’s plenty that’s been said about the matter, we often overlook that protecting your skin from sun damage doesn’t stop at slathering on some sunscreen and calling it a day. An after-sun skincare routine is just as important for keeping your skin at peak health. And because your skin would be feeling a bit dry and sensitive, your everyday skincare won’t do. Here, we give you the 411 on properly caring for your skin post prolonged sun exposure.

After-Sun Skincare Step 1: Cool off with a shower.

Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturising Body Wash, SGD18.90/~USD14 (watsons.com); Mary Kay Satin Body Revitalising Shea Scrub, SGD25/~USD18 (marykay.com)

Rinse off the dirt, grime, and sweat from your body by taking a shower. You can opt for a bit of warmth to open your pores but make sure the water isn’t too hot because the objective is to reduce skin temperature. Use a mild body wash such as Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturising Body Wash, which contains colloidal oatmeal to gently nourish the skin. You can also opt for a mild exfoliant such as Mary Kay Satin Body Revitalising Shea Scrub, which is enriched with moisturising shea butter and sunflower oil to gently slough off any dead skin cells on your body. Finish with a cold burst to cool down.

After-Sun Skincare Step 2: Double-cleanse your face.

Murad Soothing Gel Cleanser

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, SGD38/~USD28 (dhccare.com); Murad Soothing Gel Cleanser, SGD53/~USD39 (murad.co.uk)

It might be strange to have to double-cleanse your face even without makeup but it’s an effective way of removing all traces of moisturiser or sunscreen left behind from the day’s activities. Use a gentle cleansing oil like DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, which is formulated with antioxidant-rich olive oil and vitamin E to soften skin and protect it against free radicals. Follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser like Murad Soothing Gel Cleanser, which contains Licorice Root to soothe redness and inflammation.

After-Sun Skincare Step 3: Layer on hydration.

Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner, SGD59/USD43 (kiehl’s.com); KAO Curel Intensive Moisture Cream, SGD31/~USD23 (cosme.com)

The important thing when it comes to nursing your skin after sun exposure is to moisturise, moisturise, moisturise. Start with a soothing and balancing toner such as Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner whose botanical ingredients are perfect for the most sensitive skin types. Then use an ultra-hydrating cream such as KAO Curel Intensive Moisture Cream. The alcohol-free formula is gentle on the skin and is packed with ceramides to restore the skin barrier.

Optional Step: Slap on a face mask.

Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mask

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Oatmeal Mask, SGD40/~USD29 (sephora.com); Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mask, SGD17/~USD12 (sephora.com)

Really amp up the hydration factor by applying a deeply moisturising face mask like First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Oatmeal Mask, which contains a blend of protective oats and botanical ingredients to repair and nourish the skin. You can also opt for a hydrating sheet mask such as Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mask, which uses green tea, rice, and algae to impart a healthy, dewy glow.

After-Sun Skincare Step 4: Don’t forget your body.

Burt’s Bees Aloe and Coconut Oil After-Sun Soother, SGD14/~USD9.99 (burtsbees.com); Sun Bum Cool Down Hydrating After-Sun Lotion, SGD16/~SGD11.99 (dermstore.com)

Your body also needs some TLC! While you can use your typical aloe gel, Burt’s Bees Aloe and Coconut Oil After-Sun Soother is a good all-rounder with its non-greasy all-natural formula. Those who suffer from burns and peeling skin might appreciate Sun Bum Cool Down Hydrating After-Sun Lotion, which uses cucumber and cocoa butter to replenish moisture loss and protect irritated skin.

By following this simple after-sun skincare routine, your skin will thank you for many more sun-filled days to come!

Next, check out this sunscreen that's powerful but gentle on the skin.