Here in the Gulf, we’re all too aware of SPF and its benefits. Whether it’s screens or standing outdoors at 12 PM, applying sunscreen as skin barrier protection is second nature. But what about after exposure? With more and more brands releasing after-sun lotions and serums, the conversation has shifted to after-sun care, the routine needed to help the skin recover from sun damage. But speaking of sun damage, wouldn’t an SPF already handle that job? We spoke with Dr Nihal Affan, an aesthetic doctor and founder of Doctor Style Clinics, and she explains how the relationship between SPF and after-sun care is more nuanced.
“SPF and after-sun care serve two very different purposes,” notes Dr Affan. “SPF is designed to help prevent UV damage from occurring in the first place, whereas after-sun care focuses on supporting the skin after it has been exposed to heat, UV radiation and environmental stress. Even if you’ve been diligent with SPF, prolonged time outdoors can leave the skin dehydrated, inflamed and more vulnerable to irritation. After-sun products can help restore hydration, soothe discomfort and support the skin barrier during recovery.”
For those wondering if this means that after sun care is a secondary safety net—an option not a necessity—think again. According to Dr Affan, damage from the sun doesn’t always have to look like sunburn. Instead, they accumulate with time. “Following sun exposure, the skin often loses moisture and can become inflamed,” says the doctor. “Without adequate hydration and barrier support, the skin may feel dry, tight and uncomfortable. Over time, repeated sun exposure can contribute to collagen breakdown, pigmentation, uneven skin tone and premature ageing. While after-sun care won’t reverse sun damage, it can help minimise some of the immediate effects and support the skin’s recovery process.”
However, it must be noted that even with this secondary safety net, the skin might still get affected by sun damage. After all, SPF and after-sun care are put in place for protection and recovery, but it isn’t possible to escape the sun and accurately negate the damage. Dr Affan agrees, mentioning that, “the skin has remarkable repair mechanisms, but it cannot completely erase all sun damage. Some damage can be repaired naturally, particularly at a cellular level, but repeated UV exposure causes cumulative changes over time. The goal is not to rely on the skin to recover, but to minimise damage in the first place.”
After Sun Products to Have on Your Radar
When it comes to finding the right after-sun products, it’s important to first take a look at the ingredients. “Hydration and barrier repair should be the priorities,” Dr Affan remarks. “Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin and aloe vera can help replenish moisture and soothe the skin. Ceramides are particularly beneficial because they help strengthen the skin barrier, while ingredients such as panthenol and allantoin can help calm irritation. Antioxidants, including vitamin E and vitamin C, may also help neutralise some of the oxidative stress generated by UV exposure.”
So, with that in mind, here is Soigné’s after-sun hit list:
Clarins | Soothing After Sun Lotion
This creamy balm instantly cools angry red skin while enriching it with its antioxidant-rich formula.
Dior Beauty | Dior Solar The After-Sun Balm
Formulated with glycerin, shea butter, Plectranthus extract, inositol, and more, this balm deeply hydrates the skin while also preserving a golden tan. It also leaves behind a luxurious monoi scent.
Kiko Milano | After Sun Refreshing Gel
For those who prefer a cooling gel over a balm, the After Sun Refreshing Gel by Kiko Milano comes with all the right ingredients, along with an easy texture that melts into the skin. Hyaluronic acid, aloe extract, shea butter, and argan oil nourish the skin from sun damage, while notes of monoi are also infused in the product.
Caudalie | Vinosun Protect – After-Sun Repairing Lotion
Formulated with aloe vera extract, grape water, and coconut oil, this creamy milk lotion refreshes the skin without leaving any greasiness, making it an easy after-sun fix.
BIOTHERM | Oligo Thermal Hydrating and Soothing After-Sun Milk
Another milky lotion that immediately rehydrates the skin, this one comes with a pure extract of thermal plankton, trace minerals, vitamin B5, and E to help the skin on a cellular level as well as retaining the skin’s tan and leaving it luminous with palm oil and the brand’s Radiant Tan Complex.
Vacation | After Sun Gel
For those looking for a lightweight gel, the After Sun Gel is almost like water, fast absorbing and rapidly cooling. With an alcohol-free formula, aloe vera, and antioxidant-rich botanicals like green tea and cardamom, and vitamin E, this product is ideal for those with sensitive skin or combination skin.
Solar Recover | Save Your Skin
And if an even lighter texture is what you’re looking for, skip the gels and grab a spray. This one by Solar Recover comes with vitamin E and calendula and again, feels just like water. The mist application also makes for a convenient grab-and-go on busy days.
Beyond products, Dr Affan advises that a healthy lifestyle and skin routine should also be taken care of. According to her, “after-sun care should complement SPF, not replace it.” She mentions replenishing hydration by drinking water and incorporating moisturising skincare. “Avoid very hot showers if your skin feels sun-exposed, as this can further disrupt the skin barrier. If your skin feels irritated, keep your routine simple and avoid strong exfoliating acids or retinoids until the skin has settled,” says Dr Affan. And of course, remember that after-sun care is not a replacement for SPF. When it comes to caring for the skin, nothing beats prevention.
