How To Treat Your Skin After The Beach

At this point, you, me and even your dad know all about the importance of sun protection. So, let’s talk about after sun care – specifically after beach care.

Because when the weather’s as hot as this week’s, you can expect hundreds of Aussies to have the same idea about hitting the beach. And while we’re familiar with how to get sun and surf-ready, it’s what to do afterwards that’s a bit fuzzy…

Rinse off? Slap on another layer of sunscreen or moisturiser? Anything else?

Actually, that’s pretty much it. While there aren’t too many steps, if you’re serious about skincare it’s worth making sure you’re using the right products to replenish your skin after a day in the elements.

HYDRATION

Salt water (and chlorinated pools) have a drying effect on skin. Even IF yours is oil-slick with multiple layers of sunscreen, dehydration can still become a problem. After cleansing, opt for a serum or cream with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and seal in moisture, ceramide to restore skin’s protective barrier, and emollients to soothe.

ANTIOXIDANTS

UV rays cause free radical damage which 1. speed up the ageing process (No thanks.) And, 2. cause hyperpigmentation in the form of sunspots and darkened acne scars (NOPE, NOT OK.). The best defence is to make sure you’re wearing sunscreen through the day and secondary to that, packing on the antioxidants when you get home is tremendously helpful. Try something with brightening bearberry extract to counter free radicals and prevent further damage.

HEALING

If you happen to get sunburnt because you’ve missed a spot (‘half of your back’), buy yourself a cooling treatment like aloe vera STAT and start the healing process. Another healing ingredient is calendula. Both natural wonders help soothe and treat redness and inflammation, and even ward of bacteria.

PURIFICATION

After a while of getting knocked silly by the waves and getting sand absolutely everywhere, return home and wash your hair with a clarifying and nourishing shampoo & conditioner to get rid of salt water, chlorine build up and other impurities. Leave each in for a bit longer than you would normally so you porous strands can really drink it up.