With summer in full swing — and some of the hottest UK temperatures in six years — we’re soaking up every glorious second.
Gardens have become our go-to getaway spots, rosé is chilling, and sunscreen is finally getting the love it deserves.
But while we’re all (quite rightly) slathering on the SPF during the day, many of us forget the vital next step: post-sun skincare. After basking in the sunshine, your skin is crying out for hydration, nourishment, and repair. Think of it as a reset button for your complexion — especially after a day of UV exposure, heat, and environmental stress.
Whether you’re sunbathing in the garden or just walking the dog in 28-degree heat, your skin needs more than just a rinse and rest. So, we’ve rounded up five of our favourite post-sun saviours — from ultra-hydrating mists to luxurious lotions — to help restore your glow and keep your skin happy long after the sun goes down.
1. Instant Hydration Hero
Our Pick: Clinique Moisture Surge Face Spray
This ultra-fine mist delivers a surge of moisture in seconds. Powered by aloe water and activated humectants, it instantly quenches thirsty skin and helps restore balance after a hot day in the sun. Pop it in the fridge for an extra-cooling post-sun refresh.
2. Overnight Skin Revival
Our Pick: Liz Earle Skin Repair™ Hydrating Night Cream
This rich, nourishing night cream is packed with plant-based hyaluronic acid, borage seed oil, and avocado oil to replenish and hydrate skin. The relaxing blend of rose and lavender essential oils helps unwind your senses before slumber. Scientifically proven to deliver an intensive moisture boost, it leaves your skin looking radiant, refreshed, and rested upon waking.
3. Aloe-Infused After-Sun Gel
Our Pick: Bondi Sands Aloe Vera After Sun Gel
A lightweight, non-greasy gel formulated with 95% cooling aloe vera and vitamin E. This soothing after-sun care product provides relief and hydration to sun-exposed skin, helping to prevent peeling and irritation. Dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin, it’s an essential addition to your post-sun routine.
4. Luxe All-Over Body Cream
Our Pick: Elemis Frangipani Monoi Body Cream
This indulgent body cream melts into sun-parched skin, leaving it silky, nourished, and deeply hydrated. The tropical scent alone is enough to transport you to a far-flung island — but it’s the monoi oil and macadamia that do the heavy lifting when it comes to moisture.
5. Deep Hydration Serum
Our Pick: Beautypie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Serum
This serum combines three types of hyaluronic acid to deliver intense, multi-layered hydration. Lightweight yet deeply nourishing, it helps restore moisture balance and reinforce the skin’s natural barrier—ideal for keeping your complexion plump and refreshed after sun exposure.
Final Tip:
Hydration doesn’t stop at skincare — make sure you’re sipping plenty of water throughout the day, too. Your body (and your face) will thank you.
Bonus Boost: Hydration from the Inside Out
Our Pick: Skinade – Better Skin From Within
This award-winning daily collagen drink is packed with essential nutrients including MSM, vitamin C, and omegas. It works to boost skin hydration, elasticity, and radiance from the inside out — ideal for summer skin that’s feeling a little sun-stressed. Think of it as your glow-up in a bottle.
Word By Hannah Parnaby
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