By Melissa McCombs
It happens to the best of us. A longer day at the beach than planned. A missed sunscreen reapplication. A boat ride with no shade. By evening, your skin feels warm, tight and uncomfortable. Here is how to bring comfort back to sun-kissed skin, gently and naturally.
First: get out of the sun
This sounds obvious, but it matters. As soon as your skin starts feeling warm, move into the shade, cover up with loose clothing, and put on a hat. Your skin has had enough for today.
Step 1: Cool down gently
- Take a cool (not cold) shower or bath.
- Skip hot water, harsh soaps and scrubs.
- Pat skin dry very gently with a soft towel. No rubbing.
Step 2: Mist to cool and calm
This is where our Cooling Sun Mist shines. Made with lavender, aloe and coconut, it rehydrates and calms the feeling of warmth.
- Mist generously over face, neck, shoulders, arms, and anywhere skin feels warm.
- Keep the bottle in the fridge for an even cooler feel.
- Re-mist as often as you like throughout the evening.
For an extra layer of cool, follow with Aloe Cucumber mist.
Step 3: Hydrate from inside
Sun and heat leave your whole body thirsty. Drink plenty of water through the evening and the next day.
Step 4: Rest and be gentle
- Wear soft, loose, breathable clothing.
- Avoid heavy makeup and strong skincare for a few days.
- Skip exfoliants, clay masks and anything that feels harsh until your skin feels comfortable again.
- Stay out of strong sun while your skin feels sensitive.
When to see a doctor
Our mists are cosmetic products designed for comfort. If your skin blisters, or if you feel unwell, with fever, chills, dizziness or nausea, please see a doctor or seek medical care.
Next time: plan ahead
- Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside.
- Reapply every two hours, and after swimming or sweating.
- Seek shade during the strongest midday sun.
- Bring Cooling Sun Mist in your beach bag so comfort is always close.
Keep comfort close: The After-Session Duo ($53) belongs in every beach bag. For the full coastal ritual, choose the Salt Life Box ($86).