Summer is all about sunshine, beach days, and outdoor fun—but all that time in the sun can leave your skin feeling dry, tight, and in need of repair. Even with sunscreen, UV exposure, heat, and salty air can take a toll. At Cielo Spa, we know that radiant and healthy summer skin starts with proper care and hydration. If your skin is feeling a little overexposed, these tips will help you restore balance, soothe irritation, and bring back your glow.
Cool Down and Cleanse Gently
After sun exposure, the first step is to cool the skin and remove any sweat, sunscreen, salt, or chlorine. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser and avoid anything with harsh exfoliants or alcohol that could further dry out your skin. We recommend using lukewarm (not hot) water and patting your skin dry with a soft towel.
Rehydrate Inside and Out
Sun and heat draw moisture out of the skin, leaving it dry and dull. Replenish hydration by drinking plenty of water and give your skin some topical TLC with a deeply hydrating moisturizer or serum containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or squalane. For even more hydration, finish with a facial oil to lock in moisture.
Soothe with Aloe and Antioxidants
Aloe vera is a natural remedy for heat-stressed skin, offering both moisture and anti-inflammatory properties. For added recovery, look for products rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and E, which help combat free radical damage caused by UV rays.
Gently Exfoliate
Even after sun exposure, exfoliating helps keep your skin clear and glowing, but it’s essential to go gently. A low-strength chemical exfoliant, like lactic acid or mandelic acid, can be a great choice for sloughing off dead skin cells without the abrasiveness of a physical scrub. Use it just once or twice a week to help your moisturizers and serums penetrate more deeply, while minimizing the risk of irritation to sun-stressed skin.
Don’t Skip the SPF (Even After a Burn)
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you don’t need sunscreen after you’ve already been burned or tanned. In fact, your skin becomes more sensitive to UV damage after sun exposure. Reapply SPF 30+ daily, even on cloudy days, to protect your healing skin and prevent long-term damage.
Pamper Your Skin with Professional Treatments
For optimal recovery, consider treating your skin to a professional spa treatment. At Cielo Spa, our facial treatments are wonderful for calming, hydrating, and restoring skin.
1725 State Street “C”
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
