Updated on Feb 07, 2024
In our everyday hustle and bustle, we sometimes forget to follow our basic skincare routine. And if you are one of those spending hours in the sun without layering your skin with an SPF, you've probably been a victim of sunburn. Or you might be on a vacation-relaxing on a beach and falling asleep, if you haven't used sunscreen; you might wake up with that lobster-red body. Although sunscreen is the first line of defense against UV damage, the best after-sun lotions come in handy, especially when you develop sunburns. They fade hyperpigmentation and hydrate skin and soothe inflammation for a faster recovery.
According to Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, "Lighter lotions are typically preferred for sunburns or tans because they relieve skin without heat loss from the outer skin layer. Sunburned skin doesn't need to release heat to cool down. And applying heavy ointments may disturb the normal healing process."
Drawing from our experience, we brought you some great after-sun lotions that can heal damaged skin. As the treatment relies on location and the severity of burns, we have covered all sorts of products, from quick relievers to intense moisturizers and hydrating agents.
Our top picks
15 Best After-sun Lotions
Burt's Bees is a cult-classic brand for instant hydration. This lotion carries the goodness of aloe vera and coconut oil (1) that soothes your sun-kissed skin and provides relief. The formula absorbs quickly and penetrates deep into the skin layers to moisturize and heal the damaged skin. The blend is rich and slathers easily; the best part is it keeps that sticky and greasy feeling at bay, leaving your dermis calm and relaxed. Also, the tropical scent will give you an experience of a beach vacation at home.
Pros
- No parabens
- Zero phthalates
- Petrolatum-free
- Leaping bunny certified
- Natural ingredients
2
Best Tropical Lotion
Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Lotion
The creamy, buttery Hawaiian After Sun Lotion is a perfect option for those who prefer light yet effective moisturizers. The ultra-smooth formula locks hydration for up to 12 hours and offers intense moisturization. Infused with exotic ingredients like coconut (1), avocado oil (2), and shea butter (3), this best lotion for after sunnourishes your skin deeply and keeps it smooth and silky soft. The island botanicals and equatorial-like smell will make you feel like you're on a Hawaiian island and relaxing.
Pros
- Lightweight
- No animal testing
- For all skin types
- Soothes skin
3
Dermatologist Recommended
Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Lotion
A fine glide of Sun Bum lotion is enough to treat and cool down your sunburn. This dermatologist-recommended lotion immediately nourishes and prevents the peeling of sunburned skin. It features natural ingredients, including cocoa butter and vitamin E (5), that help relieve your pain after burns. Applying this formula is no hassle. After sun exposure, take a dollop and spread gently on the affected area. Also, you can use it before sun exposure to prevent damage. The blend calms existing burns and prevent new ones.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Quick action taker
- Cruelty-free
- Smoothens skin
- Gluten-free
- Vegan
4
Instant Reliever
Nivea Sun Moisturising After Sun Lotion
When it comes to popular after-sun lotions for face, Nivea is one of the brands that strike our minds at first. The elegant 6.8 Fl Oz blue bottle is no less than an instant sun pain reliever. With components like avocado (2), aloe vera, and hyaluron (4), the liquid cools and suppresses burning sensations. It provides intense moisturization for 48 hours for better and faster healing. Also, a special thanks to hyaluron which help boost collagen production to strengthen skin and increase elasticity.
Pros
- Instant relief formula
- Dermatologically approved
- Effective ingredients
- Multipurpose lotion
Cons
- Pungent smell
5
Weightless
Alba Botanica Aloe Vera Lotion for Skin
If you dislike the feeling of those heavyweight gels, the Aloe Vera Lotion from Alba Botanica will provide the relief your burned skin is looking for. The hydrating gel features botanicals- aloe vera and shea butter (3) to reduce dryness and prevent further damage. This purity-certified after-sun lotion with aloe is perfect for maintaining moisture and hydration balance after a day in the sun or if your skin is naturally dry. The blend feels mild and weightless on your sunburned skin and delivers the care it needs.
Pros
- Ultra-moisturizing blend
- Cools dermis
- Vitamin E infused
- 100% vegetarian
- Leaping bunny certified
Cons
- Watery consistency
- A bit sticky
6
Non-comedogenic
Neutrogena Sun Rescue After Sun Replenishing Lotion
Those with sensitive skin need not to feel left out. Neutrogena's after-sun lotion is specially designed for you guys. The vegan mint-scented lotion contains aloe and vitamins for 24-hour moisturization. Also, it hydrates your dead, dry skin to relieve itchiness and scaly textures. The powerful mint extract is known for its intense cooling and soothing properties. While vitamin E (5) is best for defending damaged skin and preventing premature aging. Based on our observations, the formula exhibits non-comedogenic properties and halts pore clogging.
Pros
- Boosts skin health
- Prevents peeling
- Anti-oxidant rich
- Non-sticky
Cons
- Might not smell sensitive folks
7
For Long-lasting Tan
Millennium Tanning Solid Black Tan Extender Lotion
Packed in a classic black bottle, this sunburn reliever by Millennium Tanning will grab your attention. Not just it looks cool, but it refreshes your skin and elevates your tan's color. The exclusive lotion is a delectable delight to your derma. Thanks to nourishing ingredients like argan, macadamia, and walnut oil. After a long hectic day under the scorching sun, bask in the heavenly-like smell of this moisturizer and pamper your skin. For long-lasting tanning effects, don't forget to add this best after-sun lotion for sunburn to your skincare regime.
Pros
- Penetrates deeply
- Supples skin
- Prolongs color
- Increases glow
Cons
- A bit pricey
8
Total Repair Lotion
AloeMoist Natural Aloe Vera Body Lotion
Sunburn on dry skin is a disaster. Fortunately, we have AloeMoist's total repair formula- a holy grail for dry, damaged dermis. Hero ingredients like aloe vera, ocean minerals, and sunflower oil combats dryness; while jojoba oil, vitamin B5, and shea butter feed skin. The hydrating formula absorbs without residue and rejuvenates cells. Besides a sunburn lotion, you can use it as a full-body moisturizer to heal your cracked hands and feet. Also, you may like adding it to your PM care routine as a night cream for better healing.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-greasy
- Ultra-absorbent
- AM to PM moisturizer
- Organic raw materials
9
Soothes Inflammation
Absolutely Natural - After Sun Lotion
This best after-sun lotion by Absolutely Natural is ideal for everyday use. It addresses an array of skin issues other than just healing sunburn. It's all due to magical botanicals- rosehip oil, aloe, and vitamin E. The trio works together and fights facial free radicals, reduces inflammation, and improves collagen to boost skin elasticity. Although sunscreen is your daily skincare staple, but adding an after-sun lotion to your suncare routine can change the game. It can provide a long-lasting tan and rehydrate your withered derma.
Pros
- Reduce inflammation
- Promotes healthy skin
- Halts further damage
- Fantastic moisturizer
10
Natural Elixir
BoaVida After Sun Lotion Nutrient Cream and Tan Enhancer
BoaVida's lotion is a multifaceted product that not only improves tan but also acts as a nutrient booster. Infused with cupuacu butter, the lotion holds more moisture compared to conventional suncare formulations (6). According to Cynthia Ann Fleck, a certified nurse, "Cupuacu butter has a higher tendency to penetrate in the skin layers quickly and retains moisture for a longer time." The 16oz bottle provides 2X more nourishment than usual ones; features a pump dispenser for easy usage.
Pros
- Makes your skin happy
- Natural elixir for skin woes
- Absorbs in seconds
- No gluten
- Paraben free
11
COOLA Organic Radical Recovery After Sun Body Lotion
Essential oils like lavender and sunflower oil have been used as a sunburn medication for ages. Instead of slathering the oil directly, apply this luxurious formula without letting your hands slippery and sticky. Backed by other components- agave, aloe, and rosemary extract, this pick provides 5 benefits in one. Upon application, lavender oil instantly calms the skin. Sunflower oil works as an anti-oxidant agent; rosemary extracts refreshen skin; agave and aloe vera soothe skin. Our findings show that the product maintains optimum moisturization and helps bounce back skin.
Pros
- Deep hydrator
- Ultra-smoothening
- Vitamin enriched
- Everyday lotion
12
Ocean Potion After-Sun Lotion
Nothing could be better than a cool splash that gives an icy feel to calm down those red-hot burns. Glycerin, citric acid, aloe vera, and other unique ingredients make sure you feel like relaxing in chilly cold water. The lotion prevents dryness and reduces peeling while improving hydration and moisturization. Sea plant extracts and antioxidants protect and nourish skin for optimum healing. The product is not just limited to healing sunburns, but it's a magical formula for windburns as well. The Ocean Portion liquid is one of the best after-sun lotions to keep tan for longer periods.
Pros
- No parabens
- Zero propylene glycol
- Gluten-free
- Zero phthalate
Cons
- Cap might be loose
13
Australian Gold After Sun Moisturizer
The Australian Gold After Sun Lotion/Moisturizer is here to prep you for a blazing summer vacation. Crafted with hemp seed oil, it offers excellent moisturization and comforts skin while defending it from toxins. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, D and E, the hemp blend ensures a hydrating glow and is a holy staple for your skin. Premium ingredients like tea tree oil, kakadu plum extracts, and safflower seed oil rejuvenate the dermis, while caffeine adds a dose of energy and enlightens your dead skin cells.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Quick drying
- Adds plumpness
- PABA free
- No dyes
Cons
- Strong odor
14
Maple Holistics Hydrating After Sun Lotion
Maple Holistics After Sun Lotion is a lightweight nourishing formula fused with skin-loving ingredients. The silky, velvety shea butter, coconut oil (1), oat extract, and jojoba are a holy staple for your skin. Unlike other harsh chemical-based suncare formulas, this one is loaded with the goodness of nature and doesn't contain gluten, phthalates, etc. After all, the best after-sun lotion for sunburn should be relieving and guilt-free. Whether you're planning for a beach vacation or stepping out every day leaving your home, this pick needs a spot in your suncare kit.
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- Daily suncare essential
- Hyaluronic acid infused
- Coconut scent
- Cruelty-free
15
Seven Minerals NEW Recovery After Sun Gel
For that oh-so-smooth skin, don't forget to consider this new sunburn elixir by Seven Minerals. The blend contains freshly cut aloe extracts, mango, chamomile, glycerin, etc., which fastens the recovery process. Also, they quickly drench your skin's thirst and increase hydration levels. Based on our first-hand experience, the product works well even on sensitive skin as it doesn't contain artificial raw materials, colorants, fragrances, or synthetics. What's unique is the brand believes in sustainability and packs bottles carved of recycled plastic to save mother earth.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-sticky
- Alcohol-free
We believe that our recommendations for the best after-sun lotions will help soothe your sunburns. Let's hop into our user guide that will help you choose the best pick.
How to Choose the Best After-sun Lotion?
Here are a few notions to scan through before buying a good after-sun lotion;
Ingredients
Botanicals like aloe, essential oils, and tropical extracts with glycerin and hyaluronic acid (4) are some of the popular ingredients you'll find in most sunburn lotions. These are right for your sun-drenched skin, so keep an on them. Also, ditch stuff like alcohol, sulfates, parabens, and other harsh ingredients that may worsen the situation.
- Aloe Vera: Stating more benefits of aloe vera, our contributor Dr. Harikiran Chekuri, a renowned dermatologist, says, “Aloe vera has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various skin conditions, including sunburns. It is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to soothe and heal irritated skin. When applied topically, the gel from the aloe vera plant can provide immediate relief from sunburns by reducing redness and inflammation. It also helps to hydrate and nourish the skin, promoting faster healing and preventing peeling.”
Scent and sensitivity
The smell is a preference-based factor. Folks who are sensitive to smell can prefer unscented options. Also, if you're allergic to a particular ingredient, you can look for hypoallergenic lotions. Don't forget to do a patch test before applying a solution.
Formula
From lotions to gels, after-sun products are available in multiple formats. The point is to choose a formula that aligns with your skin care needs and effectively performs its function.
In the words of our contributor, Dr. Chekuri, “After-sun lotions or creams are specially formulated to soothe and repair sun-damaged skin. When exposed to UV rays, our skin undergoes oxidative stress, leading to inflammation and damage. After-sun products contain ingredients that help to combat this damage and promote healing.
Some common ingredients found in after-sun lotions include aloe vera, vitamin C, and vitamin E. These antioxidants work together to reduce inflammation, protect against free radicals, and stimulate collagen production for healthier skin.”
Conclusion
Dealing with sunburnt skin is extremely painful. But thankfully, our sunburns are taken care of with the best after-sun lotions. They provide instant relief while hydrating and nourishing your dry and inflamed skin. Since these lotions are available in different formats, we have covered everything from creamy liquids to gels that will pamper your sun-kissed derma. You can choose a sun lotion formulated with natural and organic ingredients and avoid one fused with chemicals like parabens, sulfates, dyes, alcohol, etc. These can be a game-changer and prep your skin to withstand those scorching sun rays. Also, don't forget to skim through our user guide above for the best shopping experience.
Contributor: Dr. Harikiran Chekuri, Medical Head - ClinicSpots
FAQ's
Is moisturiser better than aftersun?
Moisturizers can calm and soothe your damaged skin. However, aftersun lotions are more effective and offer instant relief.
Is after sun good for a tan?
Aftersun lotions can prolong your tan by increasing moisturization and preventing peeling.
Is aftersun better in the fridge?
Yes, you can store a lotion in a refrigerator. Put it at a door instead at the back of the shelf as it might get too cold. And yes, do not confuse it with mayonnaise someday. Check the label though.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Anoushka, the author is a certified skincare expert. Asserting on the benefits of sunscreen in skincare, the author is certain that post sun-exposure also requires extreme TLC. Hence, she has curated this list of the best after-sun lotion.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
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Author BIO
Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More
