Your post-sun survival guide: June 17, 2025

Even if you don't get an actual sunburn, your skin needs a little extra TLC after being exposed to UV rays all day.

LAUNCH ALERT!

It’s a great day for Westman Atelier fans, as our beloved Gucci has added the Eye Activator to the brand’s ever-expanding skincare lineup. Designed to tackle fine lines, dark circles, puffiness and loss of elasticity, it’s said to deliver visible results in four weeks.

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You tried your very best to slather yourself with SPF from head to toe. Maybe you even reapplied sunscreen at least every two hours, after swimming and after towel-drying as recommended by ALL the experts. But when you step out of the shower at the end of the day, you’re seeing red (on your sun-exposed skin, that is). We’ve all been there, so now what?

Over the years, more than one dermatologist has recommended taking Advil to reduce the inflammation associated with a sunburn, but you’re surely going to want some topical skin-soothing ASAP. Here are a few suggestions that can help reduce the sensation of heat and possibly minimize long-term skin damage.

Soleil Toujours Aloe Antioxidant Calming Mist
You’re just a spritz away from instant relief with this antioxidant-packed spray. Green tea leaf and pomegranate extracts work alongside the brand’s EcoSun Complex of vitamin C, vitamin E and algae to quell free radicals before they do their damage—as aloe replenishes moisture. It’s a winner.

Zure Solaris
I haven’t tried this new line of post-sun skincare, but it’s at the top of my list in the event of an SPF malfunction. Designed to address the short- and long-term effects of sun exposure, the offerings include the Post-Exposure Cooling Infusion, Body Treatment, Shower Rinse and Essential Serum for the face.

SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Masque
Burning, stinging and redness don’t stand a chance against this botanically fueled skin-calming mask. Ideal for post-sun soothing, it cools on contact and hydrates with hyaluronic acid—and it’s a savior after office-based treatments like lasers (but always check with your provider before using anything post-procedure).

Heliocare Advanced
Although there is no substitute for sunscreen, this supplement serves as an insurance policy of sorts. Powered by an antioxidant-rich fern extract, two capsules a day can help reinforce your skin-protection efforts. Side note: My son is starting Accutane and he’ll be taking this daily over the course of his treatment.

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