Naturally Cool: Simple After-Sun Tips to Support Skin Comfort

 

Even with plenty of ways to protect your skin from the sun, sometimes it catches us off guard. Maybe your SPF wore off during a lake day, you forgot to apply before yard work, or a spontaneous hike left you a little too sun-kissed. No judgment — it happens!

When your skin feels warm and tender after sun exposure, there are a few gentle ways to support its natural balance and help your body feel more at ease. Here are some of my favorite after-sun habits to help you cool down, reset, and feel refreshed.

 

🌿 Support from Within

Sun exposure affects more than just the surface of the skin. To support your body’s natural response after long days outdoors, I love turning to PhysiQOL® from Ridgecrest Herbals. With ingredients like turmeric, Boswellia, teasel root, and Indian tinospora, this herbal blend is designed to support the body’s natural pathways that keep you feeling comfortable and balanced. It pairs beautifully with your favorite topical care.

🛁 Soothe with Salt

Salt has long been used in traditional practices to support the skin’s natural healing process. When I was a kid, my mom would immediately reach for table salt anytime she had a kitchen burn, wet the skin, apply salt, wrap it up, and let it rest.

For a more spa-like approach, try an Epsom salt bath. Dissolve 2 to 4 cups in warm water, then let it cool (or add ice cubes) to a comfortable temperature before stepping in. Soak for 20 to 30 minutes to help your body unwind and your skin feel refreshed.

No tub? No problem. Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of Epsom salt into a spray bottle with water and mist the skin gently.

🍎 Apple Cider Vinegar Mist

Some people love using apple cider vinegar as a gentle way to support the skin’s pH and refresh post-sun. Simply blot affected areas with a vinegar-soaked cloth or cotton pad. The scent can be strong, but many find it grounding and cleansing.

 

🌸 DIY After-Sun Cooling Spray

If salt feels too drying for your skin, try this soothing essential oil blend instead:

You’ll need:

• 15 drops peppermint essential oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil
• 1 oz natural aloe vera
• 1 oz witch hazel
• A 2 oz glass spray bottle

To make:
Combine the ingredients, shake well, and spray directly onto the skin as needed.

This blend is one of my favorites, peppermint offers a cooling sensation, lavender helps calm the senses, and frankincense, witch hazel, and aloe vera work together to support skin tone and natural recovery.

 

☀️ In Summary

Your skin is amazing, it protects, regulates, and connects you to the outside world. Sometimes it needs a little extra love after a sunny adventure. These natural approaches are gentle, easy, and can help support your body’s own ability to bounce back.

Try one or combine a few. Your skin (and spirit) will thank you.