Best aftersun products featured in this article
UV exposure from the sun is the main preventable cause of skin cancer – the most common form of the disease in the UK. And yet, according to a recent survey by Melanoma Focus, 32% of adults admit to not using sunscreen, despite burning at least once per year.
Of course, the best thing is to avoid UV exposure altogether or take precautions when you are out in the sun by wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and reapplying regularly, covering up and wearing a hat, and seeking shade where possible. But sometimes, even with the best intentions, you can still catch the sun and burn.
If you are unfortunate enough to turn lobster-red in the hot weather, there are a number of ways you can treat sunburn. But before it gets to that phase, you may want to reach for a bottle of soothing aftersun.
Here, Dr Jonathan Kentley, consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, explains to Glamour UK what aftersun actually is, how it works, and how to get the most out of it.
What is aftersun?
Designed to soothe and moisturise the skin after UV exposure, aftersun is a nourishing skincare product often including ingredients such as aloe vera and chamomile, which help to calm reddened areas.
“Most formulations are lightweight lotions, gels or sprays containing ingredients intended to cool, soothe and replenish moisture in skin that has become dehydrated or inflamed following time in the sun,” Dr Kentley explains.
Common ingredients also include glycerin and emollients, which can help reduce the feeling of heat, tightness and dryness after sun exposure.
“I often explain to patients that aftersun is not a treatment that ‘repairs’ sun damage or reverses a burn, but rather a supportive product that helps make the skin more comfortable while the skin barrier recovers. Think of it as comfort and barrier support rather than damage erasure. UV injury has already happened, which is why prevention with sunscreen remains far more important,” the expert adds.
Is aftersun effective sunburn treatment?
According to Dr Kentley, aftersun can be very effective at easing symptoms, but expectations should be realistic.
“The reason that you have a sunburn is that the DNA damage sustained by skin cells from the sun was so severe that the cell dies. This causes inflammation and barrier disruption, so an aftersun product may help reduce discomfort, dryness and tightness by cooling and moisturising the skin,” he says. “Products containing soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or soy, and humectants that draw water into the skin, are particularly helpful for symptomatic relief.”
However, Dr Kentley stresses that there is a common misconception that aftersun somehow “undoes” sun damage or prevents long term consequences of UV exposure. “Unfortunately, it does not,” he warns. “It will not reverse DNA damage, stop skin ageing or cancel out an episode of sunburn. If someone is significantly burnt, blistering, or feeling unwell, aftersun alone is not enough and medical advice may be needed.”
These expert tips will help you achieve a natural, dewy glow – no matter your skin type.
How often should you apply aftersun?
The best time to apply aftersun is after cooling the skin first. “I recommend a cool shower or cool compress, gently patting the skin dry so it remains slightly damp, and then applying a generous layer of aftersun or a bland moisturiser containing soothing ingredients such as aloe vera. Applying moisturiser to slightly damp skin helps lock in hydration,” Dr Kentley notes.
“Be generous and reapply as needed throughout the day, particularly if the skin feels hot, tight or uncomfortable. Chilling the product in the fridge can feel particularly soothing. I would avoid heavily fragranced formulas or products containing alcohol, acids or exfoliating ingredients, as these may sting and further irritate already inflamed skin.”
7 best aftersun products for summer 2026
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