After sun lotions usually contain more water than normal creams, which at first provides a sensation of cooling and relief. However these types of formulations contain mainly water and only a small amount of plant nutrients, which means that their potential to repair and regenerate the skin is very limited.
Aloe vera gels are often sold as after sun care products, but they often contain many other ingredients besides aloe vera, so make sure to read the label very carefully. Even pure aloe vera gel is usually highly processed as it is a plant that oxidises very rapidly and requires multiple chemical modifications and preservatives before it can be sold.
For a simple cooling effect you can apply plain, unflavored yogurt for fifteen minutes and wash it off afterwards.
The best after sun treatment contains medicinal plant nutrients that have been elaborated with physical-mechanical processing techniques and therefore retain the maximum amount of skin calming nutrients.
Extracts from medicinal plants such as rose, stevia and the Opuntia fruit are packed with skin regenerating antioxidants while also having a profound calming effect. High quality, cold-pressed oils and butters provide the skin with essential fatty acids that help to repair, replenish and rehydrate the skin after extensive sun exposure or mild sunburns.