It's no secret that the sun can wreak havoc on the skin. While UV rays are invisible to the naked eye, sun damage can be quite obvious. Redness, uncomfortable burning, accelerated skin aging (in the form of dark spots and fine lines), and skin cancer, are some of the consequences of sun exposure.

You might be one of those very sun-conscious people who always have their sunglasses on (in that case, congratulations – you got it all). But lately, it's been getting hard to avoid the scorching sun (thanks to the heat wave) and that doesn't seem to be changing anytime soon.

If your skin is drier than in the winter months, or if it's tight after a day in the sun, you're not alone. The sun can strip your skin of the moisturizing ingredients it needs to be healthy, but skincare can help replenish them. You may already know the benefits of hyaluronic acid and glycerin, for example, but there are plenty of other equally effective ingredients.

Before going further, a clarification: it is not necessary to use all these ingredients at the same time. If a product seems beneficial for your skin type or specific needs, here's how to take advantage of it.

Ceramides and the benefits for the skin

Sun damage is caused by high-intensity radiation that damages the skin barrier, and ceramides are part of that barrier. A damaged skin barrier can lead to itching, dryness, redness, tenderness, and even pimples.

"Ceramides are already present in the skin, and we're talking about natural moisturizing factors. We need them to maintain a strong and hydrated barrier." Think of ceramides as the glue between your skin cells, holding them together. “Ceramides also retain water in the skin,” making it a great ingredient after sun exposure.

You can find ceramides in many products, from serums to moisturizers, but I recommend using a good moisturizer and suggests using it morning and night. We recommend The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA.

Don't forget to apply a broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen morning and night.

Panthenol and its effects on the skin.

Panthenol - also known as vitamin B5 - is not an ingredient that brands tend to promote. This ingredient was originally developed to aid wound healing, but cosmetic brands quickly realized that it was a great addition to any after-sun moisturizer, as it quenches the skin wonderfully.

"This ingredient prevents the skin from drying out, and it also helps strengthen the skin barrier." It is also an antioxidant, which protects the skin from environmental factors such as pollution. Also, this ingredient is well tolerated and works even better when combined with niacinamide (vitamin B3). We suggest favoring moisturizers and serums.

 Opt for Dermalogica Active Moist Moisturizer, which is oil-free (great for pimple-prone skin) and is best for morning and night use.

Allantoin and its effects

Allantoin is an ingredient found in many skin moisturizers – just look for it. This ingredient is very effective in stopping transepidermal water loss, which occurs when moisture escapes from the skin (which is common in hot weather), leading to dehydration. Signs of skin dehydration include a dull appearance and fine lines. Allantoin is found in many medical-grade and prescription skin care products.

 Moisturizing products like Frozen Over Gel-To-Ice Moisturizer (a gel at room temperature and a sorbet when frozen). If your skin feels tight and cracked (especially after cleansing), it may be dehydrated. In this case, replace your foaming cleanser with Rise and Defend Kombucha Face Wash, which also contains allantoin. (These products can be shipped to Nigeria)

Vitamin E and its effects on the skin.

Vitamin E is a highly moisturizing and healing ingredient for the skin, which is particularly suitable for dry skin. But that's not all. "Vitamin E is an excellent antioxidant and it combines very well with vitamin C, to help counter sun damage and pollution." Look for vitamin E moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid for complete skin barrier protection, especially if your skin tends to feel tight and rough to the touch after sun exposure.

Polyglutamic acid and the effect it has on the skin.

Polyglutamic acid and hyaluronic acid go very well together, as they both draw moisture into the skin. A well-hydrated skin is luscious and radiant skin. The difference between the two is that polyglutamic acid forms a film on the skin and prevents the evaporation of moisture. Thus, this ingredient not only provides hydration but also maintains it. If your skin feels tight and dry after spending time in the sun, try Farmacy Beauty DAILY GREENS oil, which combines hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid.

Snail mucin and its effect on the skin

Snail mucin - or snail slime, if you prefer - doesn't sound very glamorous at first glance (it's even slightly gross), but it's worth looking into.

"It's a great barrier-protecting ingredient, but it also gives your skin great shine." If you like the dewy look, this is the product for you. “We recommend applying a serum like this directly after cleanser and before moisturizer, so it acts as an extra barrier protection.”

In general, if you expose yourself to the sun, it is essential to combine your care with a broad-spectrum, high-factor sunscreen to protect your skin against harmful UV rays.

We recommend Beauty of Joseon Repair Serum: Ginseng + Snail Mucin.

In general, if you expose yourself to the sun, it is essential to combine your care with a broad-spectrum, high-factor sunscreen to protect your skin against harmful UV rays.