After a day in the sun, at the beach, or by the pool, the skin can feel tight and uncomfortable. A few simple ingredients can then be used to create a refreshing and nourishing treatment.
These three recipes pair aloe vera gel with plant oils. They are suitable only for mild redness, without blisters or wounds. They do not replace proper care for a genuine sunburn.
Aloe vera and vegetable oils: the after-sun duo
After sun exposure, the skin can lose some of its water and protective lipids. It becomes drier, more sensitive, and sometimes uncomfortable.
The aloe vera gel provides a cooling sensation and helps maintain superficial hydration. Prefer a stabilized cosmetic gel, ready to use and containing a high proportion of aloe vera.
Vegetable oils and butters help limit dehydration by forming a light protective film. Calendula macerate, jojoba, argan, or apricot kernel oil are particularly well suited for body care.
These ingredients, however, do not offer reliable sun protection. They should never replace a properly formulated sunscreen.
The consoGlobe tip
Chill your aloe vera gel in the fridge. Its cool texture will feel especially pleasant after a hot day, without needing to apply ice to your skin.
How to extract aloe vera gel from the plant?
If you prefer to use your plant, cut a thick outer leaf at its base. Stand it upright, cut end down, for 15 minutes to allow any potentially irritating latex to drain.
- Rinse the leaf, remove the spines and the green skin with a clean knife
- Only scoop out the transparent gel.
- Thoroughly rinse it before blending.
Use it immediately, after testing in the inside of the elbow, and discard if it still shows yellow coloring or an unusual odor.
Recipe 1: the quick aloe vera and calendula fluid
Very light, this care is applied after a warm shower on clean, dry skin. It is intended for lightly warmed areas, without wounds or blisters.
Quantity: one body application
The ingredients
The preparation
In a perfectly clean bowl, mix the aloe vera gel and the calendula macerate.
Whisk for a few seconds until you obtain a slightly milky texture. Apply immediately to the skin, without rubbing.
Allow it to absorb before putting on clothing. Do not store the remaining mixture.
Recipe 2: the refreshing two-phase mist
This light mist cools the arms, legs, and décolleté. For the face, spray the product into your hands to avoid the eyes.
Use a fluid cosmetic aloe vera juice and not a thick gel, which could clog the spray.
Quantity: about 25 ml, to be used during the day
The ingredients
The preparation
Pour the three ingredients into a clean, small spray bottle that is completely dry.
Close the bottle, then shake vigorously. Spray onto the body and let it absorb with light motions.
Shake before each application, as the oil and water phases separate naturally.
Store the spray in the refrigerator during the day and discard the rest in the evening. Any unusual odor or texture means you should stop using it.
Recipe 3: the velvety care for very dry skin
This richer preparation is suitable for the legs, arms, shoulders, or elbows that feel tight after several exposures.
It should not be applied to very red, painful, oozing skin or skin covered with blisters.
Quantity: one body application
The ingredients
- 1 tablespoon raw shea butter;
- 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel (cosmetic);
- 1 teaspoon jojoba or argan oil.
The preparation
Work the shea butter with a fork to soften it. Add the vegetable oil and mix carefully.
Then incorporate the aloe vera gel, whisking until you obtain a creamy texture. Apply immediately to the dry areas.
This homemade emulsion, containing no preservatives, should not be stored in a jar for future days.
Can you add an essential oil?
Real lavender essential oil is often recommended in after-sun recipes. It remains optional and can irritate already sensitive skin.
As a precaution, these recipes do not include it. Essential oils are particularly not recommended for young children and for pregnant or nursing women.
If you have an allergy, asthma, are on medication, or have any doubt, ask a pharmacist or health professional for advice.
DIY after-sun: essential precautions
Carefully clean the equipment
Wash your hands, utensils, and containers. Disinfect the equipment with 70% alcohol, then let it dry completely before preparing.
A reusable container remains eco-friendly only if it can be properly cleaned and dried between uses.
Prepare only the necessary quantity
Aloe vera and hydrosols bring water to formulations. Without an appropriate preservative system, microorganisms can quickly grow.
Therefore, prepare minute amounts. Do not store a homemade recipe that combines an aqueous phase with an oil for several weeks.
Test the ingredients
Before first use, apply a small amount of the product in the inside of the elbow. Wait 24 hours and avoid applying if you notice a reaction.
Avoid using these preparations on mucous membranes, around the eyes, on a wound, or on skin with blisters.
What to do in case of a true sunburn?
Facing a painful redness, start by cooling the area under lukewarm water, about 68°F (20°C). Avoid ice, which could further irritate the skin.
Drink water regularly, stay in the shade, and avoid further sun exposure until the symptoms subside.
When should you seek medical advice?
Seek medical attention promptly if blisters appear, if the burn is extensive, or affects the face. Also consult if you have fever, chills, headaches, nausea, a feeling of malaise, or signs of dehydration.
The best protection remains prevention
An after-sun treatment cannot undo the effects of UV rays. Limit exposure during the hottest hours and regularly seek shade.
Wear covering clothing, a hat, and appropriate sunglasses. Apply sunscreen generously to exposed areas and reapply after swimming.
