The arrival of good weather and vacations, and the pleasant climate, invite us to enjoy the sun, whether on the beach, in the mountains, or simply strolling outdoors. But did you know that proper skin preparation and protection before, during, and after sun exposure is essential to keep it healthy, radiant, and protected?
We share a complete natural routine to care for your skin against the sun, with the support of sunscreen essential oils and natural products, ideal for those seeking a healthy tan without compromising their skin's health.
Care Before, During, and After Sun Exposure for a spectacular tan and healthy, beautiful skin.
1. Skin Preparation Before Sun Exposure
Well-prepared skin will respond better to sun exposure and absorb the necessary nutrients to maintain its elasticity and natural glow.
Gentle exfoliation (2-3 times a week)
Before sun exposure, remove dead skin cells with a natural exfoliant based on sugar, sea salt, or ground coffee. You can add a few drops of lavender or sweet orange essential oil to a good carrier oil like almond or wheat germ to promote cell regeneration and leave the skin soft and toned.
Another good exfoliation technique is dry brushing using a natural fiber brush or agave and ixtle loofahs.
Deep hydration
Start by reminding yourself to drink enough water in your diet and avoid heatstroke. Then, regarding skin, prior hydration is key. Daily apply a mixture of body vegetable oils like jojoba oil, coconut oil, or shea butter, enriched with a few drops of geranium or sandalwood essential oil, known for their ability to nourish and balance the skin.
You can also use our intense lavender or green tea cream, which moisturizes deeply and leaves no greasy feeling.
2. Protection Before and During Sun Exposure
The skin needs an effective barrier against UVA and UVB rays to prevent damage, spots, and premature aging.
Use of natural sunscreens
Opt for physical or mineral blockers with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These form a protective layer on the skin without interfering with its natural breathing.
If you use chemical sunscreens, make sure to use only those that are free of oxybenzone and octinoxate. Also, make sure to use biodegradable products to avoid harming marine life and coral reefs.
If your sunscreen has an organic aloe vera gel base, like those from Aloe Up, your skin will absorb it into the deeper layers of your dermis, providing more effective sun protection and hydration from within.
Special recommendation:
Look for formulas with aloe vera extracts, botanical extracts, or shea or cocoa butter, which, in addition to protecting, provide hydration and antioxidants.
Pre-application and Re-application every 2 hours
All sun filters need to be absorbed by the skin. Allow about 20 minutes for your sunscreen to absorb before going out in the sun or entering the water. Afterward, even natural products need to be reapplied every two hours, especially if you are in the water or sweating. Don't forget sensitive areas like ears, neck, insteps, behind the knees, top of the feet, and lips.
For your face, use a non-comedogenic and oil-free filter.
3. Skin Care After Sun Exposure
After a day in the sun, your skin needs to be soothed, repaired, and nourished. Drink plenty of water.
Gentle shower with lukewarm water
Avoid hot water, which can dry out the skin further. Use a natural sulfate-free soap, preferably with soothing ingredients like honey and oatmeal or lavender.
Post-sun hydration
Apply a soothing lotion or body oil. You can create your own mixture with:
- Sweet almond, coconut, or wheat germ oil
- Lavender essential oil (calms and hydrates)
- Peppermint essential oil (cools and relieves redness)
- If you got a bit sunburned, you can make a spray with a few drops of lavender and peppermint essential oil to help cool and regenerate the skin.
Extra nourishment for a lasting tan
Include beta-carotene-rich foods like carrots, mango, or pumpkin in your diet. Consume plenty of these foods before, during, and after your vacation. Beta-carotene does make a difference in your tan.
Protecting your skin from the sun doesn't mean avoiding it, but learning to coexist with it consciously and naturally. Incorporating essential oils and natural sun protection products into your sun routine can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels. Remember: well-cared-for skin is healthy and happy skin.
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