The unexpected consequence of using aftersun on your face, according to a skincare expert

If there's one thing we love about summer, it's days spent at the beach or by the pool in the sun, always with proper sun protection as a priority. Many people in Spain and around the world are more than aware of the importance of protecting their skin during and after sun exposure. This way, we prevent problems like the dreaded burns , dark spots, or, in extreme cases, skin cancer. Aftersun can be a great ally, although you have to know how to apply it.

These types of products, available in stores, pharmacies, and brands, are primarily used to soothe skin after sun exposure, and many are indicated for the body. But is it advisable to use them on the face? First, you need to know that facial skin is not the same as other areas of the body. Among other reasons, it is finer and, therefore, more delicate.

The skin of the face is not like that of the body

Hachiro Tagami, MD, a research fellow in the Department of Dermatology at Kyoto University, explains in a Laneige press release that " the stratum corneum (SC) of facial skin is thinner , consisting of fewer layers of corneocytes, than that of the trunk and extremities." This means that the face has thinner skin than the rest of the body, making it more delicate and requiring specific products to properly treat and care for it.

This is how Shari Lipner, a board-certified dermatologist in New York , describes it. She also points out a negative consequence of incorrect application of this type of product in statements also included in the press release: "Facial skin is thinner, contains more sebaceous glands and is more sensitive, requiring specific formulations. Body lotions, usually thicker and with heavier emollients or fragrances , can clog pores and cause irritation ." This translates to the unexpected appearance of pimples , since more oil than normal would be produced, blackheads or acne breakouts.

Cross-using facial and body products wouldn't be good because, according to experts, they're different and will require different care and formulas depending on their characteristics. This way, no part of the skin would suffer, and neither would we.

For example, Silvia Oliete, founder of Blaucelona beauty centers , in a statement to Vogue , recommends the following to care for facial skin after exposing it to the sun: "Rinse your face with fresh, cool water, cleanse it with a mild foam, gel or milk, and apply a fragrance-free moisturizer."