During the dog days of summer, as we watch the scorching sun rise slowly each day, we can't help but wish to fully armor ourselves before stepping outside, but we still end up getting sunburned. Sun protection is an eternal theme in modern cosmetics, as it addresses the damage caused by the depletion of the ozone layer.
Once sunburn occurs, it is important to first address the inflammation of the skin before taking care of it. Soak a towel in cold or ice water and apply it to the face to gradually relieve the stinging sensation.
After the skin has cooled, the first thing to do is to cleanse the skin because no matter how refreshing the sunscreen is, it will still hinder the skin's ability to breathe freely. Sweat secretion adds an extra burden to the skin. Therefore, washing the face multiple times a day is the first task to be completed after sun exposure.
Next, moisturizing the skin is important. In addition to using toner and serum, applying a little lotion or cream can also help. The skin becomes very dry after sunburn, so it is important to use low-irritant skincare products at this time.
Sunburn symptoms usually last for about 3 to 4 days. Afterwards, the stratum corneum starts to peel off and the skin begins to flake. Do not forcefully remove the skin by hand, as the epidermis will naturally shed during bathing. Forcing it off will only damage the skin.
In fact, the most natural and simple post-sun care method is to clean and tear fresh aloe vera into pieces and apply them to the sunburned areas. You will feel a refreshing sensation, as if the skin is receiving much-needed relief after a long drought. This method is more effective than applying any skincare product.
Now let's learn how to make two post-sun care solutions:
1. Cooling Aloe Vera Lotion
Aloe vera has a special soothing effect on the skin. Applying it to sunburned and reddened areas after a day in the sun can make the skin feel refreshed and cool.
Instructions: Heat 1/2 cup of aloe vera gel and 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers over low heat without boiling. Then cool the mixture, strain out the chamomile flowers, and mix in 1 tablespoon of vitamin E oil and 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil. Pour the mixture into a bottle with a lid and store it in the refrigerator.
2. Post-Sun Care Bath
Add 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil, 4 drops of chamomile essential oil, and 3 drops of geranium essential oil to a bath, and gently massage the sunburned areas. Jojoba oil is rich in proteins, minerals, and substances similar to collagen, which can quickly penetrate the injured and inflamed skin. Chamomile has soothing, comforting, and pain-relieving properties. Geranium has antibacterial and astringent characteristics, and can make the skin more radiant.
