After a long day in the sun, our skin needs one thing in particular: regeneration and hydration. UV radiation, heat, and salt or chlorinated water stress the skin and can dry it out or irritate it. Therefore, good after-sun care is essential—especially when it's based on natural, skin-friendly ingredients. This article is all about after-sun care with a focus on natural cosmetics: Which products really work? What should you look out for? And which active ingredients are the stars among natural helpers?

Even if you don't get sunburned, sunbathing puts stress on your skin. UV rays promote the formation of free radicals, which can accelerate skin aging. At the same time, the skin loses moisture through sweating and sun exposure. The result: tightness, dryness, or irritation.

After-sun products help repair this damage. They moisturize, soothe, cool, and support the regeneration of the skin barrier.

Natural cosmetics rely on plant-based ingredients and avoid synthetic fragrances, parabens, silicones, and mineral oils. This is a huge advantage, especially after a day in the sun—because irritated skin reacts sensitively to harsh ingredients.

Natural cosmetic after-sun creams and lotions often have light textures that absorb quickly and are non-greasy. Typical ingredients include:

• Aloe Vera : intensively moisturizes, cools and soothes.
• Shea butter & jojoba oil: nourish, replenish and strengthen the skin barrier.
• Calendula: has anti-inflammatory and regenerating effects.
• Lavender or chamomile: soothes skin irritations.

Tip: Look for products without alcohol – this dries out the skin even more.

Serums & Fluids

If you want to give your skin an extra boost, try a natural serum. These usually contain concentrated active ingredients such as:

• Hyaluronic acid (plant-fermented): stores moisture deep in the skin.
• Antioxidants such as vitamin C (from sea buckthorn or rosehip): protect against free radicals.
• Panthenol (provitamin B5): supports healing in cases of redness or sunburn.

Serums are ideal as the first care step after cleansing – apply directly to damp skin.

Gentle cleansing is also important in the evening to remove sweat, sunscreen residue and dirt – without irritating the skin.

Recommended are:

• Mild cleansing milk or micellar water based on plant ingredients
• Cleansing oils with almond, apricot kernel or coconut oil
• Cleaning without surfactants or only with gentle sugar surfactants

You need:

1. 100 ml pure aloe vera gel (organic quality)
2. 10 drops of lavender oil (essential, pure)
3. 1 tsp jojoba oil

Simply mix, store in a clean glass container, and apply as needed. Stored in a cool place, it will keep for about a week.

The right after-sun care helps your skin recover – ideally with natural products. Natural cosmetics score points with skin-friendly ingredients, sustainable production, and a holistic effect. Whether it's a cream, serum, or gentle cleanser, your skin will thank you – with a healthy, radiant summer glow.

Author: Maja Scheve, product manager