Let's be real: aftersun lotions are just as important a part of your beauty arsenal as your go-to face SPFs and sun creams. While everyone loves to spend a day on the sun lounger, running the risk of sore shoulders and sunburnt skin isn't exactly the most pleasant side effect.
Sure, prevention is better than the cure. Ideally, we should all be dutifully applying a healthy helping of sunscreens and/or face SPF before we step outside into the sun. And minimising the number of times we actually do. But if you happen to get a sunburn, an aftersun lotion can be your saviour by soothing your skin and preventing it from peeling.
Best aftersun lotions at a glance – our top picks:
Ultrasun Aftersun
La Roche-Posay Posthelios Soothing After Sun Melt-in Gel
Garnier Ambre Solaire Hydrating Soothing After Sun Lotion
Shiseido Sustainable After Sun For Face
As well as calming sore skin, aftersun lotions can help to replenish lost moisture, alleviate redness and irritation as well as promote your body's natural healing process. The key is reading the packaging and choosing your ingredients wisely. Opt for one that's packed with antioxidants and other actives such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, vitamin E and green tea, all of which improve hydration and prevent further sun damage by neutralising the free radicals on our skin. To really up the ante and make the most of the skin-soothing action that aftersun product can provide, pop them in the fridge before slathering on to amp up the cooling effect.
To help you make the right choice, we've put together an extensive guide on all the best aftersun lotions. We've also made sure to include a variety of options such as creams, gels, body butters, shower gels and mists to help your skin recover after a prolonged tanning session. Plus, you'll find something that suits everyone, regardless of budget or personal taste.
Note: aftersun lotions are not alternatives to sun tan lotions and sun creams. Make sure to protect your skin from irreparable damage by applying sunscreen before exposing it to the sun.
Looking to stock up on sun protection and after sun care products? Check out our guide to SPF, as well as our edits of the best sun creams for your body, the best SPF makeup and scalp sunburn treatments. Plus, be sure to take a look at the best fake tan products too. For more shoppable makeup, skincare, haircare and wellness content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on Twitter @deniseprimbet and Instagram @deniseprimbet.
Scroll down to see our list of all the best aftersun lotions to soothe that pesky sunburn…
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