Sunscreen & After Sun: Everything you need to know for a healthy summer skin
Sun, sea, and beach – summer is the favorite season for many. But while we enjoy the warmth and fresh air, it is essential to take good care of our skin. Not only while sunbathing but also afterwards. In this blog, we take you into the world of sunscreen and aftersun, so you can make the best choices for yourself and your family.
From the difference between mineral and chemical filters to the soothing power of ingredients like lavender and aloe vera: this is your complete guide to skin protection in the summer.
Why sunscreen is essential
The sun emits not only heat and light but also UV radiation. There are two types: UVA (aging) and UVB (burning). Both can cause damage to your skin, such as:
- Accelerated skin aging
- Pigmentation spots
- Increased risk of skin cancer
- Loss of collagen and elasticity
A good sunscreen protects you against this – as long as you use it correctly and reapply regularly.
Chemical vs. mineral sunscreen: what is the difference?
At Biolovers, we offer both options, from classic sunscreen from Garnier to natural brands like Green People, Sol de Ibiza, and Biodermal. But what is actually the difference?
Chemical sunscreens
These work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat. They penetrate the skin and often contain ingredients like oxybenzone or octocrylene.
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Mineral sunscreens
These sit on the skin and reflect UV radiation. Well-known ingredients are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
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Our favorite sunscreens for a summer full of fun in the sun:
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Sol de Ibiza SPF 30 Stick & Cream
An absolute favorite. This zero-waste sunscreen is packaged plastic-free, contains zinc oxide as a natural filter, and is water-resistant. The stick is ideal for on-the-go! -
Green People Scent-Free SPF 30
Fragrance-free, vegan, and rich in antioxidants. Perfect for sensitive skin, and loved by parents of young children. -
Biodermal Sun Sensitive Skin SPF 50+
Available in spray or cream, and specially developed for people who burn easily. This contains chemical filters but is free from fragrance and alcohol. -
De Traay Sunscreen Aloe & Honey SPF 50 – 100 ml
A nourishing sunscreen based on aloe vera and organic honey. Provides intensive protection and hydrates at the same time. -
O' Zoleil Sunscreen SPF 50 – 125 ml
A natural sunscreen with mineral filters, ideal for the whole family. Fragrance-free and extra gentle on the skin. -
Attitude Sunly Sunscreen Stick SPF 30
Compact, vegan, and plastic-free. This stick with mineral filters is ideal for on-the-go and contains soothing plant-based ingredients. -
Ambre Solaire Sensitive Face Serum SPF 50+ – 30 ml
A lightweight serum specially for the face, with high protection and a silky-soft finish. Ideal under makeup.
How to use sunscreen correctly?
- Apply in time: 15-30 minutes before you go into the sun.
- Reapply every 2 hours, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or drying off.
- Don't forget your ears, feet, lips, and neck – many forgotten areas!
What to do if you do get burned?
Even with the best intentions, it can happen: your skin is red, tight, or painful. This is where a good aftersun makes a difference. It soothes, hydrates, and helps your skin recover, reducing the chance of peeling and long-term damage. The power of aftersun: cooling and recovery. Aftersun is more than just a refreshing feeling.
Good aftersun products contain ingredients that:
- Anti-inflammatory (such as lavender)
- Hydrating (such as aloe vera and glycerin)
- Antioxidants that support skin recovery
Our favorite aftersun products
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Biodermal Aftersun
This caring aftersun lotion is specially developed to soothe and hydrate sun-exposed skin. With ingredients like panthenol and allantoin, it helps reduce redness and a tight feeling. The light formula absorbs quickly and feels wonderfully fresh.
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De Traay Aftersun Gel – Aloe Vera & Honey
A natural classic with organic aloe vera and soothing honey. This fresh gel is ideal for sensitive, red, or tight skin. It doesn't stick, absorbs quickly, and leaves your skin feeling supple and hydrated.
Perfect after a day in the sun, sea, or pool. -
Attitude Aftersun Stick
Convenient for on the go and completely plastic-free packaged. This aftersun stick is enriched with soothing ingredients such as calendula, shea butter, and coconut oil. The stick form makes it easy to apply on both face and body, without hassle.
Ideal for your beach bag – suitable for the whole family. -
Naïf Cooling After Sun Gel
Lightweight, cooling, and super hydrating. With aloe vera and plant-based glycerin, this gel calms immediately after sun exposure. Free from microplastics, dermatologically tested, and gentle for every skin type, including the little ones.
Fresh aftersun without junk – that makes your skin happy. -
Australian Gold Aftersun Soothing Aloe
This aftersun lotion contains soothing aloe vera, vitamin E, and natural plant extracts. The formula cools immediately and helps reduce redness and a tight feeling.
A favorite among sun lovers – smells wonderfully tropical and feels luxurious. -
Vision Aftersun
This intensely hydrating aftersun lotion supports the skin's natural recovery process and helps prevent peeling. Absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy layer, and is suitable for daily use after sun exposure.
For those who really want to take good care of their skin after the sun.
5 common mistakes in sun care
- Only applying in bright sunlight (UV is also present when it's cloudy!)
- Not using enough product
- Thinking that 'waterproof' means you don't have to reapply
- Skipping aftersun or only using it when burned
- Do not use separate products for face and body
At Biolovers, we believe in choice and transparency. That's why we offer a carefully selected range of sunscreen and aftersun, from both natural brands and accessible drugstore options. This way, you will always find a product that suits your skin type, lifestyle, and preferences.
Whether you are looking for:
- Mineral sunscreen with or without fragrance
- Sun protection for children and the whole family
- Cooling aftersun sprays and balms
- Zero waste and reef-safe sunscreens
We have it in stock for you.
Extra tip: combine sun care with hydration
In addition to sunscreen and aftersun, it is important to hydrate from within. Especially in warm weather, you lose moisture and electrolytes more quickly. So drink enough water and consider an electrolyte mix like Waterdrop electrolytes, also available from us. A well-hydrated skin recovers faster, stays supple, and is better able to withstand external influences.
Frequently asked questions about sunscreen and aftersun
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Every 2 hours, and always after swimming, sweating, or drying off. Even with waterproof sunscreen.
Can I use the same sunscreen for face and body?
It can be done, but the skin on your face is more sensitive. Preferably choose a separate formula with a lighter texture and fewer irritating substances.
What is the difference between aftersun and body lotion?
Aftersun contains specifically cooling, soothing, and restorative ingredients. Body lotion hydrates but often lacks these extra benefits.
Give your skin the best summer ever
Whether you stay in the Netherlands or travel to a tropical destination: good sun care is not a luxury – it’s a must. With the right sunscreen and aftersun, you not only protect your skin from burning but also support the natural recovery processes. And at Biolovers, you will find everything you need, from the most beloved natural brands to safe drugstore options. Check out the full range of sunscreen and aftersun in our webshop and prepare your skin for a carefree summer!
Shop sun protection for before and after the sun
- Best sunscreen for sensitive skin
- Sunscreen without perfume
- Natural sunscreen without junk
- After sun sensitive skin
- Best aftersun without perfume
- After sun with aloe vera
- Cooling aftersun spray
- Sol de Ibiza review
- Green People sunscreen
- Biodermal sensitive skin SPF