Applying After Sun Lotion: How Soon is Too Soon?
Summer sunburns are the worst. Not only are they painful and uncomfortable, but they can also cause long-term damage to your skin. That’s why it’s important to soothe your skin with after sun lotion as soon as possible. But how soon is too soon?
The Importance of After Sun Lotion
After sun lotion is a crucial part of any summer skincare routine. Not only does it help soothe sunburned skin, but it can also prevent peeling and even reduce your risk of developing skin cancer later in life. But in order for after sun lotion to be effective, you need to know when to apply it.
Wait Until the Heat is Gone
According to Skin Cancer Foundation, it’s best to wait until the heat is gone from your skin before applying after sun lotion. This typically takes at least an hour after sun exposure. Applying lotion too soon can actually trap the heat in your skin and make your sunburn worse.
Avoid Applying Lotion to Open Blisters
If your sunburn has progressed to the point where you have open blisters, it’s important to wait until they have healed before applying any after sun lotion. Applying lotion to open blisters can cause infection and slow down the healing process.
Keep Reapplying Throughout the Day
Once you’ve waited an hour and your skin has cooled down, it’s safe to apply after sun lotion. However, don’t just apply it once and forget about it. Keep reapplying throughout the day to keep your skin moisturized and prevent peeling. And remember to stay out of the sun as much as possible to prevent further damage.
