After Sun Skin Care Home Remedies: A Parent’s Guide

Whether it’s a beach day that stretched too long or a backyard afternoon that snuck up on you, sun exposure happens. And when it does, your little one’s skin can take the brunt of it, turning pink, feeling hot to the touch, or drying out in the days that follow.

Even if you’ve been diligent with the SPF, it’s important to have a skin care routine for sun exposure that helps restore moisture and prevent peeling. 

The good news? You don’t need a cabinet full of products. Some of the best after-sun care products are already in your home. Here are five simple, effective after-sun skin care home remedies that parents can trust. 

Bonus: You can use them on yourself, too!

After-Sun Skin Care for Little Ones

1. Cool, Damp Compresses

The first step after sun exposure — especially if skin feels warm or looks red — is to gently cool the area. Soak a soft cloth in cool (not icy) water and lay it over your child’s skin. This helps lower skin temperature and reduce inflammation.

Parent Tip: Skip soaps, scrubs, or anything that could further irritate the skin. Stick to plain water and keep pressure light.

2. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe has long been a go-to remedy for sunburns, and for good reason. Its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties help relieve discomfort and reduce redness. Choose a pure aloe vera gel without added dyes or alcohol, which can dry out sensitive skin.

Apply a thin layer to the affected area and allow it to fully absorb. You can repeat this 2–3 times a day for ongoing relief.

3. Soothing Moisturizing Cream

One of the best after-sun lotion options for the face and body doesn’t have to say “after sun” on the label. NOLEO’s Natural Skin Care and 3-in-1 Diaper Care creams contain a calming blend of:

• Alkaline limewater to gently cleanse and balance pH
  
• Organic sunflower and olive oils to deeply moisturize and repair dry, sun-exposed skin
  
• Beeswax to lock in hydration and prevent the flaking and tightness that often follow sunburn
  
  

This ultra-gentle formula was designed for delicate baby skin, making it a safe, effective remedy to prevent peeling and support skin recovery. Just a small amount massaged into warm, post-sun skin can make a big difference.

4. Oatmeal Baths

If your child is feeling extra sensitive, a lukewarm oatmeal bath can be a soothing full-body solution. Oats contain anti-inflammatory compounds that ease itching and irritation. You can grind plain rolled oats into a fine powder and sprinkle them into the bath, or use a store-bought colloidal oatmeal soak.

Soak for 10–15 minutes, then pat the skin dry (never rub!) and apply a gentle moisturizer immediately after. 

5. Hydration and Light Layers

The skin heals best when it's supported from the inside out, so hydration is key. Pediatricians recommend children drink one 8-ounce cup of water per year of their age — so 2-year-olds need 16 ounces of water per day, and 3-year-olds need 24 ounces. If they aren’t getting enough from drinking alone, offer plenty of hydrating snacks—think watermelon, cucumbers, or homemade smoothies. 

On the outside, opt for breathable, lightweight clothing that shields the skin without trapping heat.

After-Sun TLC That’s Simple & Soothing

If you’ve been wondering what to do after tanning in the sun or looking for the best after-sun lotion to prevent peeling, the answer often lies in simple, nourishing ingredients and a little consistency.

Whether you reach for a bottle of NOLEO, fresh aloe, or a kitchen remedy like oats, the goal is the same: calm, comfort, and protect your child’s skin so it can bounce back.