How to care for the skin after sun exposure?

Solar radiation is extremely important to ensure the Earth's climate. Fortunately, however, part of this radiation is absorbed by the ozone layer, thus protecting us from rays such as UVC, which have a high mutagenic capacity. However, radiations such as near-ultraviolet (UVA) and medium-ultraviolet (UVB) are able to penetrate the dermis. As such, UVA radiation is mainly responsible for skin photoaging, as it causes DNA damage, and UVB rays, in addition to participating in the synthesis of vitamin D3, are mainly responsible for the occurrence of sunburn. These minor complications, which appear after sun exposure, are then characterized by a physiological response of the skin to ultraviolet radiation. Thus, it presents a reddish color and is hot to the touch, with pain and signs of inflammation. Factors such as taking medication from certain pharmacological groups, such as antibiotics, antidepressants, and retinoids, also increase our predisposition to develop solar erythema, since these are drugs with a photosensitizing action. In these cases, when implementing these therapies, it is recommended that users pay special attention to the behavior they adopt, as they must permanently avoid exposure to the sun.

In fact, prevention is, without a doubt, crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises. Therefore, it is important to apply and reapply sunscreen frequently. But today we decided to bring you some advice to alleviate the symptoms associated with sunburn and to speed up the skin's regeneration process.

The truth is that, sometimes, we look for tips and remedies that solve this problem and help to reduce the feeling of discomfort triggered by it. And, in fact, starting by not neglecting any of the recommended practices for safe sun exposure, it is certain that we can resort to some non-pharmacological measures in order to alleviate and treat this skin condition. For this purpose, we leave you with some indications so that you can proceed correctly.

Initially, it is important to reduce the temperature of the affected area, as well as inflammation, pain, and flushing, so you can use cold water compresses in the fragile area. Then, another important tip is the use of bath oils, without fragrance, in order to reduce the sensation of burning and itching. For a feeling of immediate relief, you may not know it, but you may find thermal waters an excellent ally, as they have antioxidant and calming properties that soothe and stabilize the skin layer. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or natural fruit juices, is also another essential tip to keep your skin and body properly hydrated. In addition, the application of gels with calming, refreshing, and moisturizing properties is an excellent option, as they help to prevent skin peeling, in addition to quickly reducing the aforementioned symptoms. As such, products with active ingredients such as aloe vera, glycerin, bisabolol, and menthol can improve the condition of your skin and allow faster recovery of damaged tissues. Caladryl Derma Gel SOS is a highly recommended alternative in the moments after the appearance of solar erythema and the truth is, thanks to the Ice Cooling Technology, the Caladryl Derma Ice Gel Ultra Refreshing is also a very promising product in relieving discomfort and itching caused by excessive sun exposure. However, in addition to these strategies that can be safely applied, there are certain unadvisable behaviors in these cases. For example, it is recommended to avoid the consumption of alcoholic or sugary drinks and it is equally important not to burst the blisters/bubbles so that neither the healing process is compromised nor the risk of infection is exacerbated. Also in this context, avoiding the application of products that contain local anesthetics (benzocaine, lidocaine), petroleum (such as vaseline), or fats is also an asset in order not to jeopardize the entire treatment process.

Finally, a piece of advice that will certainly make all the difference to your skin: always choose to apply after-sun after being exposed to the sun. Why? Because this type of product contributes significantly to regenerating and moisturizing the skin and to prolonging the tan, preventing skin aging. But, what should we look for in a good after-sun? Well, above all that its texture is smooth, fresh, and easily absorbed, and that it contains compounds with calming, moisturizing, refreshing, and antioxidant properties. It is essential that these formulations have the necessary properties to soothe and regenerate the epidermis since exposure to the sun for long periods leads to its damage. The presence of antioxidants in the composition of after-sun is also a very important factor, as it allows limiting the harmful effects caused by free radicals.

With four oils (argan oil, almond oil, avocado oil, and apricot oil), Filorga has an after-sun made up of hyaluronic acid and a complex of amino acids and minerals very interesting to leave your skin soothed and to avoid scaling. On the other hand, Caudalie's after-sun lotion is another product that gives the skin an immediate feeling of freshness and smoothness, being rich in ingredients such as coconut oil, grape water, and aloe vera extract, which allow it to maintain the skin is healthy and properly hydrated.

These products are an example of some alternatives you can choose to care for your skin after sun exposure. There are several precautions that must be taken into account. We have listed those that seem essential for you to enjoy this hot season without any embarrassment.

Take care of yourself and your skin. Count on us on this journey!

See you soon!

Dr. Andreia Moreira