The 13 Best After-Sun Lotions Of 2024, Recommended By An Expert
Hydrate and cool your skin to keep it healthy and relaxed after a long day outdoors.
Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is the founder and Master Injector at Beauty Lounge Medical Spa. She has 15 years of experience in the beauty industry and 13 years as a registered nurse. Dorantes began her career as a Beauty Advisor for Estee Lauder.
Read full bio of Shawnda Dorantes
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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Sometimes, sunscreen is not enough to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. It may even leave you with a slight suntan or sunburn, even after continuous reapplication. To ensure your skin heals effectively after sun damage, you need to invest in the best after-sun lotions. The best part about this product is that it is manufactured in various forms like creams, sprays, lotions, etc. To avoid peeling skin to wreak havoc, a layer of this product will soothe your irritated skin and help repair the sun damage that your regular sunscreen could not protect. Skin epidermis damage is a more common and sad reality that showcases inflammation, redness, and long-lasting skin issues when exposed to UV rays. It is essential to invest in a calming and repairing after-sun lotion that perfectly hydrates your skin. Scroll down to find the 13 best lotions to help get rid of sunburnt or dry skin.
In This Article
What Does An After-Sun Lotion Do?
A lightweight hydrating good after-sun lotion restores the skin’s moisture levels while forming a barrier to trap the heat in your skin, which could potentially further on to skin damage. After-sun lotions also offer anti-inflammatory benefits and lock in moisture while accelerating the healing of wounds. It also helps reduce radiation damage, which can be triggered after being under constant exposure to sun rays. It has a calming effect on the symptoms of wounds like it provides relief from itching and prevents peeling caused by sunburn.
13 Best After-Sun Lotions To Soothe Your Skin
1. Best Weightless Formula:Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion
The Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion is a silky gel-based after-sun lotion that nourishes your skin after a long day in the sun. A fantastic choice for those with oily skin, it is a lightweight formula that offers a barely-there sensation. The unique blend of shea butter, aloe, and a dual-ribbon hydrating formula provides 24 hours of moisturization, leaving you with a smooth, supple, non-greasy feeling. The moisturizing after sun lotion is also accompanied with tropical botanicals and fruits like mango, papaya, passion-fruit, plumeria, and guava, which work actively to keep your skin healthy and nourished. Watch this tester’s experience review to get a better idea about the product and its features.
- Reef-friendly
- Weightless formula
- Cruelty-free
- Lasts up to 24 hours
- Some may find the fragrance intense
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 13,106 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
2. Best For Sensitive Skin:Burt’s Bees Aloe & Coconut Oil After-Sun Soother
Burt’s Bees Aloe & Coconut Oil enriched After-Sun Soother will help you lessen any inflammation caused by a sunburn. The soothing after-sun lotion gently moisturizes your skin with aloe vera extracts and coconut oil. This aloe vera after-sun lotion is specially formulated to condition and rejuvenate your skin after sun exposure. The fast-absorbing ability of the lotion is derived from natural sources and is ideal for those with sensitive skin. The Burt’s Bees after sun lotion claims to be of 98.9% natural origin without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, and SLS and could possibly be the best lotion for skin peeling after sunburn.
- Weightless formula
- Non-greasy texture
- Contains 98.9% natural origin ingredients
- Does not contain parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, or SLS
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Some may find the consistency slightly watery
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 9,015 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
3. Best Hypoallergenic:Sun Bum Cool Down Soothing And Cool Aloe Lotion
After a long day out in the sun, your skin requires the proper amount of pampering to revive and to replenish moisture levels. For this, you can opt for Sun Bum’s Cool Down lotion as it is a cornucopia of aloe, vitamin E, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, and cottonseed oil. The after-sun face and body lotion is a light, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling soft yet bare while acting as a skin barrier from premature aging. This after-burn lotion is also hypoallergenic, reef-friendly, cruelty-free, and vegan. This paraben-free after burn lotion is also gluten and propylene glycol-free.
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Neutralizes free radicals that reduce chances of premature aging
- Packed with aloe, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, and cottonseed oil
- Non-greasy and quick absorbing
- Dermatologically-approved
- Hypoallergenic
- Reef-friendly
- Dermatologist-tested
- Some may find the formula chalky after it dries on the skin
"My stressed skin cools down as soon as I apply this lotion. It moisturizes my skin and shields it against UV damage. The formula feels lightweight on my skin and absorbs into it quickly without leaving greasy residues. I love how soft and radiant my skin looks after using this lotion."
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 5,285 great reviews on Amazon.
Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion Best Weightless Formula | Burt’s Bees Aloe & Coconut Oil After-Sun Soother Best For Sensitive Skin | Sun Bum Cool Down Soothing And Cool Aloe Lotion Best Hypoallergenic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.6 x 2.5 x 5.78 inches | 3 x 1.7 x 7.2 inches | 4 x 6 x 2 inches |
| Weight | 6 Ounces | 3.2 Ounces | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 13,106 | 9,015 | 5,285 |
| Price | $6.99 | $7.99 | $12.77 |
4. Best Long-Lasting:Piz Buin After Sun Tan Intensifying Moisturizing Lotion
A good after-sun tan lotion is a great way to secure a long-lasting tan while being a preventive product that tackles skin peeling. This after-sun tanning lotion by Piz Buin is a fast-absorbing lotion that provides 24-hour moisturization to restore the skin’s hydration levels and to enhance natural tan pigments with the help of tanimel. Tanimel is a tan intensifying plant extract that helps produce a natural-looking tan on the skin. Along with tanimel, this after-tan moisturizer lotion also includes glycerin, vitamin E, and shea butter.
- Contains tan boosting ingredient tanimel
- Locks moisture
- 24-hour hydration
- Provides a longer lasting tan
- Slightly expensive
5. Best Moisturizing Formula:Banana Boat Moisturizing Aloe After Sun Lotion
Want to use an after sun lotion that is hassle-free and has the best 2 ingredients? Well, this Banana Boat After-Sun Lotion review perhaps could leave you in awe. This lotion is an intensely moisturizing formula that helps improve your skin’s texture while retaining your natural tan for long periods. Formulated with vitamin E and aloe vera gel, it helps prevent peeling and drying. The formula is non-greasy and an ideal option for minor sunburns and irritated skin. With an addition of hydrolyzed collagen, this lotion seeks to retain the youthful appearance of your skin. This video of the reviewer’s experience will give you a better insight into the product.
- Contains aloe vera
- Soothing qualities
- Anti-aging
- Non-greasy
- Ultra-moisturizing
- May take some time to absorb
"This lotion glides smoothly on my skin and soothes it. It softens my skin and restores its lost moisture. The formula does not make my skin greasy like other sun lotions. It absorbs quickly into my skin and lends it a silky feel."
6. Best For Dry Skin:Maui Island Secret After Sun Tan Sealer
On the hunt for an organic after-sun care? Check out the Maui Island After Sun Sealer for its abundance of natural moisturizing ingredients like aloe extract, sunflower oil, rosehip oil, shea butter, passion flower oil, vitamin A,C, E, Hawaiian ginger, Maui coffee extracts, and green tea extracts. This natural after-sun lotion is bound to nourish your skin while fighting any ailments caused by sun exposure. High in organic ingredients, this tan sealer also helps in lengthening the longevity of your tan and locking in moisture. You may check out this excellent product on Amazon and its multiple positive reviews before buying it.
- Organic after-sun lotion
- Ultra-hydrating
- Suitable for dry skin
- Pleasant fragrance
- May not be best-suited for those with oily skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 1,846 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
7. Best Long-Lasting Moisture:Neutrogena Sun Rescue After Sun Replenishing Lotion
The Neutrogena Sun Rescue After Sun Replenishing Lotion gives you the confidence to go out in the bright sun without fearing any sun damage. The lotion gives 24-hour long and intense moisturization to keep your skin healthy, supple, and glowing. It is loaded with natural ingredients like aloe vera, mint extract, etc., that repair dry, damaged, and dull skin. These ingredients also help to brighten the skin tone and give visible results after just a few usages. This sun rescue lotion also contains vitamin E, which is an antioxidant and protects skin from free radicals and keeps it looking younger. The lightweight and non-greasy lotion has a refreshing mint fragrance that enhances your mood as well.
- Long-lasting moisturization
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Refreshing mint smell
- Antioxidant properties
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dye-free
- Not fragrance-free
8. Best PABA-Free:Australian Moisture Lock Gold Tan Extender Lotion
Say goodbye to dry skin and frequent breakouts with The Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender Lotion. It seals in the moisture to keep your skin fresh and hydrated for long hours while enhancing the tan after sunbathing. This tan extender lotion contains aloe vera and tea tree extracts that have antioxidant properties and hydrate the skin. Other potent ingredients like allantoin, vitamin E, and provitamin B5 reduces early signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, protecting skin from free-radical damage and preventing hyperpigmentation. It also helps to nourish dry, dull, and damaged skin. The lotion contains SPF 15, which protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays. It has a delectable scent which is a combination of coconut, orange, and vanilla.
- Locks-in the moisture
- Prolongs tan
- Contains SPF 15
- Light soothing scent
- PABA-free
- Dye-free
- Alcohol-free
- Gluten-free
- Not chemical-free
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 15,033 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
9. Best Natural:Absolutely Natural After Sun and Everyday Lotion
The Absolutely Natural After Sun and Everyday Lotion works fast to heal, hydrate, and repair your sun damaged dull skin. The lotion contains aloe vera leaf juice, rose hips oil, and sunflower oil that fight free radicals and reduce skin inflammation. These are loaded with collagen protein which helps to increase skin elasticity and improve its youthful glow. Some other important ingredients include vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant to remove dead cells, and shea butter which gives a rich glow to your skin. The lotion also contains green tea extracts and olive which improve the skin’s overall health. It also makes your tan last longer
- Rich natural ingredients
- No animal testing
- Vegan
- Suits all skin types
- Fast absorbing
- Long-lasting results
- Travel friendly
- Strong fragrance
10. Best Quick-Absorbing Formula:Nivea Sun After Sun Moisture Lotion
This aloe vera sun lotion by Nivea is a quick-absorbing formula that leaves your skin intensely moisturized for up to 24 hours. The after sun lotion is primarily infused with aloe vera and avocado oil that maintain the elasticity of the skin. Lather the after sun moisturizer evenly on your skin after a day out in the sun and allow the product to seep into your skin and provide the ample nourishment required to hydrate and protect your skin. The lotion helps retain a lasting tan while keeping your skin amply hydrated.
- Lasts up to 24 hours
- Suitable for dry skin
- High in hydration
- Soothes and maintains elasticity of skin
- Contains parfum
11. Best Calming Formula:Alba Botanica After Sun Lotion
The Alba Botanica After Sun Lotion is infused with 85% aloe vera that soothes and reduces irritation caused by sunburn. The sunflower seed oil improves skin complexion, and hydrates skin while giving you glowing skin. It also has citrus lemon peel oil, camellia leaf extract, Abyssinia seed extract, biloba leaf oil, and shea butter, which reduces skin inflammation while protecting it from damage due to sun rays, external pollutants, and free radicals. It keeps the skin youthful by concealing aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, etc.
- Water-resistant
- Dermatologist-certified
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Rich botanical ingredients
- Petroleum-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Long-lasting hydration
- Lightweight
- Vegan
- Suits sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
- A bit watery
12. Best Fragrance-free:Alosun AfterTan Moisturizer
This fragrance-free after sun lotion treats your skin, especially during dry winters. With organic aloe vera and benefits of vitamins A and E, the after-sun tan lotion rich in moisture-building emollients, gently softens and smoothes your skin while protecting the skin’s cells from drying or peeling. This unscented after-sun lotion is not tested on animals, is paraben and petroleum free and is perhaps one of the best hypoallergenic after-sun lotions. It has also proven to reverse the signs of anti-aging and offers skin reparative properties.
- Unscented after-sun lotion
- Soothing
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Intensely hydrating
- Restores damaged skin
- Some may find it slightly sticky
13. Best For All Skin Types:Stream2Sea Nourishing Body Lotion
Replenish your skin with this all-organic after-sun lotion made with a blend of green tea, tulsi, wakame seaweed, and olive leaf extracts. The paraben-free after-sun treatment is also infused with plant-based squalane, aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil that provides silky, soft, and well-moisturized skin without any residues This lotion is best advised for those who tend to have drier skin as it is a mineral-based sunscreen that combats any signs of dry, sun-damaged skin.
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Ideal for the face and body
- Slightly expensive
Summertime is the time to excessively pay heed to your skincare routine diligently as prolonged exposure to the sun could translate to poor skin conditions. Using a moisturizing after-sun lotion is advised as sun stressed skin could lead to further drying and loss of moisture retention abilities if not taken care of. Read on to know more about how you can choose the best after -sun lotion.
How To Choose The Best After-Sun Lotion?
- Ingredients
If you have dry or normal skin, look for products containing some of the commonly known moisturizing elements like shea butter, coconut oil, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and cocoa butter among others. A hydrating after-sun lotion is a must as frequent or extended hours in the sun or daytime might lead to drying of the skin eventually causing some irrecoverable disease. Antioxidant-rich lotions help prevent aging, pigmentation, wrinkling, or fine lines. Oily skin people can also use gel or water-based hydrating lotions that are rich in vitamins to eliminate free radicals. Aloe vera, gotu kola, mountain arnica, and propolis are ideal for those with sensitive skin as their soothing properties provide relief from sunburn or a rash.
- Staying power
Opt for an after sun lotion that has a good longevity factor. The longer they last the longer the healing and soothing process stays effective.
- Quick-absorbing quality
A great way to correctly utilize an after-sun lotion is to opt for one that quickly absorbs into your skin. After cleaning up from a long day in the sun, apply the after sun cream on your skin and allow it to absorb into your skin. This way, it won’t feel sticky or greasy post application.
- Texture
Opt for water-based or gel after-sun lotions during the summers as they absorb quickly into the skin disallowing sweat to remove the residue. While after-sun lotions are recommended for the summers, it is important that you apply during winters as any exposure to sun rays can cause harm. Since your skin tends to turn dryer during the fall, it is best advised to use a creamy, thick after sun lotion to restore and lock in the moisture.
How To Use An After-Sun Lotion?
- The best way to apply an after-sun lotion is to rub the product on your skin right after a bath or shower from a day out in the sun.
- If you are sunburnt, apply the after-sun lotion or gel on your skin on a daily basis
- An after-burn lotion helps rejuvenate the damaged parts of your skin which may require more care, thus keep yourself hydrated both internally and externally as sunburns tend to draw fluid towards the affected area leaving you with a lack of hydration.
The Bottom Line
Sometimes summers can be harsh. Sunscreen is not enough to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. To ensure proper protection, you need creamy, thick after-sun lotions as they restore and lock in the skin’s moisture levels. They also reduce the redness, flaking, inflammation, and long-lasting damage caused by the sun. For example, the Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion combines hydrating and soothing properties to keep the skin moisturized after sun exposure, while the Sun Bum Cool Down Soothing And Cool Aloe Lotion relieves discomfort from sunburns, reduces redness, and prevents peeling for all skin types. Further, the Neutrogena Sun Rescue After Sun Replenishing Lotion repairs and nourishes the skin with a non-comedogenic formula. These products are free from parabens and maintain the skin’s elasticity. However, they are slightly expensive and should be avoided if they have a chalky or sticky consistency. Also, conduct a patch test before topical application to prevent allergic reactions and skin irritation.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Keeping up with the latest trends in skincare and makeup is an obsession for author Krati Darak. After-sun lotions help her recover from the harsh sun damage that sunscreen can’t prevent. In order to find the best products for her readers, she has sifted through all possible options. The buying guide will give you helpful tips on how to select the best one for your needs. After-sun lotions are designed as barriers to protect the skin from further sun damage by retaining moisture and slowing down the gradual loss of its elasticity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an after-sun lotion work?
Yes, after-sun lotions are a great addition to a post-sun-care regime as they bring moisture back into the skin.
Is an after-sun lotion good for acne?
Any after-sun lotion with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), or salicylic acids are best for those with acne-prone skin since they have healing and skin replenishing properties.
How long does an after-sun lotion last?
Sunscreens or after-sun lotions last from anywhere between 12-18 months on an average.
In terms of longevity upon application, most usually last longer hours whereas some tend to last up to 24 hours.
Can you use an after-sun lotion as regular lotion?
Yes and no. While they are predominantly meant to be used at the end of the day when you’re back from outdoor activities, using an after-sun lotion before heading out or as a regular lotion may be feasible due to its skin nourishing ingredients. Though, it is not quite advised to be replaced with a sunscreen lotion as none of them come with SPF.
Does an after-sun lotion help you tan?
As after-sun lotions are made to be used after sun exposure, these lotions help alter the UV rays in order to minimize skin damage while maintaining the durability of the tan.
Does a sun lotion help with sunburn?
Yes, an after-sun lotion helps with sunburns as they are meant to ease and restore sun-exposed skin. They help reduce sunburns, redness, any rashes etc.
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