Exposure to the sun is a pleasant and beneficial experience, enabling the synthesis of vitamin D, but it can also present risks to the health of our skin. Understanding the impact of the sun on the skin barrier is fundamental to taking appropriate post-exposure skin care measures. Deterioration of the lipid barrier, loss of moisture, inflammation, cell damage, reduced skin repair capacity and hyperpigmentation are all consequences of sun exposure that require special attention.
In this context, the use of an after-sun shower gel becomes a crucial step in the skincare routine. Designed to moisturise, soothe and repair the skin, this product is essential for countering the damaging effects of the sun. Whether it’s to preserve the skin’s natural moisture, maintain its pH balance, or simply to provide immediate comfort, choosing the right after-sun shower gel is essential. This article explores in detail the essential criteria to take into account when making this choice, from skin type to key ingredients, including the texture and consistency of the product, to ensure optimum recovery of the skin after a day in the sun.
What impact does the sun have on the skin barrier?
Exposure to the sun, while appreciated for its benefits such as vitamin D synthesis, can have a significant impact on the skin barrier. Understanding this impact is essential if you are to adopt the right post-exposure skin care routine.
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Damage to the lipid barrier
- The skin barrier is mainly made up of lipids, which act as a protective shield against external aggression. Prolonged exposure to the sun can alter this lipid barrier, making the skin more vulnerable to irritants and infections. This often results in dry, flaky or irritated skin.
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Loss of moisture
- The sun accelerates the evaporation of water from the skin’s surface, a phenomenon known as transepidermal dehydration. This leads to a reduction in the skin’s elasticity, encouraging the appearance of fine lines and a “dull” appearance.
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Inflammation and cellular damage
- UV rays, particularly UVA and UVB, can cause skin inflammation. This reaction is a natural defence against cell damage, but when excessive, it can further damage skin cells and even alter their DNA, leading to premature ageing and, in the most severe cases, an increased risk of skin cancer.
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Reduced skin repair capacity
- Exposure to the sun can affect the skin’s ability to repair itself. UV rays can alter the function of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin, thereby compromising the skin’s structural integrity.
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Hyperpigmentation
- The sun can also cause an overproduction of melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation or the appearance of brown spots. Although this is often seen as a natural defence mechanism against UV rays, excessive melanin production can lead to uneven skin pigmentation.
Faced with these impacts of the sun on the skin barrier, it is essential to adopt an effective post-suncare routine. This includes using after-sun shower gels formulated to rehydrate, nourish and repair the skin, as well as applying moisturising products regularly and taking sun protection measures to minimise future damage.
Why use an after-sun shower gel?
Before we start talking about how to choose an after-sun shower gel, it’s important to understand why it’s important to use this type of product. When our skin is exposed to the sun for a long period of time, it loses moisture and becomes dry and dehydrated. An after-sun shower gel is designed to moisturise and soothe the skin after prolonged exposure to the sun. It can also help prevent flaking and reduce redness and irritation.
Should I use a pH-neutral after-sun shower gel?
PH, or hydrogen potential, is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. On a scale of 0 to 14, a pH of 7 is considered neutral, below is acidic and above is alkaline. Human skin naturally has a slightly acidic pH, hovering around 5.5. This level of acidity helps to form a barrier, known as the acid mantle, which protects the skin against pathogenic bacteria, allergens and pollution.
Using a pH-neutral after-sun shower gel is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it maintains the skin’s natural pH balance. After prolonged exposure to the sun, skin can become drier and more sensitive. High pH products can further upset this delicate balance, causing irritation, dryness and even exacerbation of skin problems such as eczema or acne.
An after-sun shower gel with a neutral pH, on the other hand, respects the skin’s natural barrier. It helps to restore and maintain the hydrolipidic film that preserves the skin’s natural moisture and protects it from external aggressors. This is particularly important after exposure to the sun, when the skin is more vulnerable and needs special attention to prevent further damage.
What’s more, a pH-neutral shower gel is generally gentler and can be used on all skin types, including sensitive skin. It helps prevent the feelings of tightness or itching often associated with the use of traditional soaps or alkaline shower gels. By preserving the skin’s natural balance, it also promotes faster, more effective recovery of the skin barrier after exposure to the sun.
Texture and consistency of after-sun shower gels
The texture and consistency of an after-sun shower gel play a fundamental role not only in the experience of using it, but also in the product’s effectiveness on the skin. Selecting the ideal texture depends on personal preferences and the specific needs of the skin, particularly after exposure to the sun.
Light, refreshing textures
For those who prefer a light, refreshing feel, after-sun shower gels in gel or foam form are ideal. These textures are generally more watery and rinse off easily, leaving skin feeling fresh and clean with no heavy residue. They are particularly suitable for normal to oily skin, as they help to eliminate excess sebum without aggressing the skin.
Creamy, nourishing textures
For dry or sensitive skin, which can be particularly affected by the sun, creamy textures are recommended. These products often have a cream or milk base that provides deeper hydration and an immediate nourishing effect. A rich texture helps to re-establish the skin barrier and soothe sunburnt skin. Creamy formulas also tend to adhere better to the skin, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate effectively and provide long-lasting relief.
Consistency and application
The consistency of the after-sun shower gel also affects its application. Products that are too liquid can be difficult to handle and run off quickly from the hands, while those that are too thick can be difficult to spread and rinse off. A balance between fluidity and thickness is essential to ensure easy application and good penetration of the ingredients into the skin.
rinsability and skin feel
Ease of rinsing is another crucial aspect. A good after-sun shower gel should rinse off easily without leaving a greasy or sticky film. It’s important that the skin feels clean, moisturised and comfortable after rinsing, with no feeling of tightness or discomfort.
A perfect after-sun beauty routine starts in the shower
After a day in the sun, a good shower is essential. Some people prefer a cold shower to stop the “cooking” process, and that’s exactly what you should do. Even more so if you feel a burning sensation. Cold water will reduce excessive blood flow to the skin. This will help reduce inflammation and redness.
Under normal circumstances, a lukewarm shower is ideal. The aim is to gradually lower your body temperature: not too hot, not too cold. This way, your pores will open better and the toxins from your perspiration will be easily evacuated. What’s more, your after-sun cream will last longer on your skin.
As well as refreshing your skin and ridding it of residue (salt, sand, seaweed, chlorine, etc.), a shower is the perfect way to start your moisturising and repairing after-sun routine. Whether you want to choose from the large number of after-sun shower gels on the market or simply find out more about their benefits, these nuggets are likely to be of interest to you.
How do I choose an after-sun shower gel?
Choosing an after-sun shower gel depends on a number of factors, such as skin type, sensitivity and personal preference. Here are a few things to consider when choosing an after-sun shower gel.
Skin type
It’s important to choose an after-sun shower gel that suits your skin type. If you have dry skin, you’ll want to choose a shower gel that deeply hydrates and soothes your skin. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may want to look for a shower gel that doesn’t contain oils or harsh chemicals that could irritate your skin.
Deciphering the ingredients list
When choosing an after-sun shower gel, it’s important to check the ingredients. Natural ingredients are often preferable, as they are less likely to irritate the skin. Look for ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile or sweet almond oil, which are known for their soothing and moisturising properties.
Choose a fragrance or fragrance-free formula
If you’re sensitive to fragrance, you may want to choose a fragrance-free after-sun shower gel. Otherwise, choose a fragrance you like that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals.
Choosing the texture
The texture of the after-sun shower gel can also be important for some people. If you prefer a creamy texture, look for a shower gel with a moisturising formula. If you prefer a light texture, look for a shower gel that rinses off easily and doesn’t leave an oily film on the skin.
Sun Shampoo Douche Après-Soleil by Nuxe
Rediscover that NUXE fragrance you love so much with Nuxe Sun Shampoo Douche Après-Soleil. With its honey-thick gel texture, its 2-in-1 care formula gently cleanses without drying skin and hair, while providing comfort and hydration. This product soothes discomfort on the scalp and wraps the skin in a veil of softness. Water hyacinth extract helps to hydrate the hair and skin. Pua flower extract soothes tightness caused by the sun. A little extra? Its shampoo-shower format, which is great for holidays!
Caudalie Soleil des Vignes Shower Gel
If you have sensitive, delicate skin, Caudalie’s Soleil des Vignes Shower Gel is for you. It contains nutrients that promote healthy skin: vitamins, minerals and amino acids. With a fragrance of orange blossom extract and mandarin essence, this shower gel is a veritable olfactory pyramid. As with all the brand’s shower gels, it is soap-free and contains no parabens, phenoxyethanol, phthalates or artificial colourings. Its cleansing base is of plant origin to respect the skin’s physiological pH. Enriched with Aloe Vera, it is 95% natural. A clean product just the way we like it!
René Furterer Rituel Solaire Nourishing Shower Gel
From the “Solaire” range, René Furterer presents a ritual developed for optimal protection and repair against the aggressions of the sun, salt and chlorine. Rituel Solaire nourishing shower gel is recommended for frequent exposure to the sun. Its composition, in perfect affinity with the skin, is rich in proteins and lipids. A property that compensates for the drying effects of summer aggression. Its delicious, sun-kissed fragrance prolongs this moment of well-being. You’ll be left with soft, sublimely scented skin and soft, shiny, detangled hair. This shower gel from René Furterer can be emulsified with seawater.
Heated by the sun, battered by the wind, sand and chlorine, our skin needs a good dose of kindness. Fortunately, today there are increasingly effective brands that are committed to protecting the environment. They offer products with exemplary compositions and a wide choice!
