10 after-sun lotions with extra skin benefits (2024)

A good after-sun lotion is a holiday essential, yet it usually comes as an afterthought, left to linger at the bottom of the packing list.

It's true that after-sun was once one of the least exciting holiday beauty products, but not any more. Now, there's a whole host of enticing new formulas to slather onto sun-kissed skin, making the whole process more of a ritual than a chore.

Of course, it goes without saying that after-sun isn't a replacement for sun protection: every day under the rays should involve a liberal application of face SPF and body suncream. With mineral SPFs, clear sunscreen sticks and even sun protection products for your hair now flooding the market, there's really no excuse for not layering up from head to toe.

But of course, a good aftersun can be a refreshing, cooling treat after a day beneath the rays, working to restore hydration and calm inflammation. Whether you're looking for a serum to soothe a sunburnt nose, a rich cream for glistening limbs, or even a mask to soothe your scalp, the summer beauty shelves offer plenty of options. Here, we reveal the ten best after-suns to indulge in all summer long.

The best aftersuns to buy before the summer

This zingy green bottle is heaven-sent for sore skin that's been in the sun for a few hours too many. It's packed with aloe vera and grape water to cosset irritated skin, while coconut oil and glycerin helps to replenish lost moisture.

If you hate the stickiness left behind by most after-sun lotions, you'll love this one from La Roche-Posay. The fast-absorbing lotion is well-equipped to relieve angry skin, with helpings of glycerin and the brand's thermal spring water for a welcome cooling sensation.

Applying body moisturiser shouldn't seem like a chore, especially with a cream as luxurious as Sisley's. It contains a low-level tanning agent to gradually intensify your tan, as well as plant extracts to bind moisture into sun-soaked skin.

An aftersun stalwart, Lancaster makes some of the best deep-hydrating treatments to massage into sun-baked skin. This silky lotion contains ingredients designed to prolong the length of your post-holiday glow, alongside mega moisture magnets to ensure your limbs look as good as can be.

A cult classic, this silky cream floods thirsty skin with moisture and leaves it with a gentle sheen. Bonus points for the sunny scent and tan-extending properties.

Institut Esthederm is a go-to for skin-protecting essentials, and this after-sun for the face is a stand-out. The lightweight creamy texture leaves skin cushiony soft and comfortable while its clever formula helps to smooth fine lines and texture.

Clarins have always done sun-care well, and this soothing balm is no exception. Both its moisturising properties and nostalgic summer scent promise to extend the life of your post-holiday glow.

See to inflamed, tender limbs with Susanne Kaufmann's cocktail of aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and balloon vine extract. After extended periods of sun-exposure, your skin's natural protective barrier will need some extra TLC, and this cooling, menthol-infused gel is just the ticket.

These serum-drenched sheet masks are a summertime essential. The blend of aloe vera, cucumber and chamomile is kind to skin all year-round, but especially refreshing on a sun-soaked complexion.

The sun can be harsh on fragile hair fibres, drawing out moisture and increasing the risk of breakage. Here, Sachajuan intervenes. This replenishing treatment is packed with heavily hydrating ingredients, and can be used either as a mask or a leave-in conditioner.