YOUR SKIN CONTINUES TO BURN FOR HOURS AFTER SUN EXPOSURE

Contending with sunburn is one of our least favourite parts of the summer season. Turning a vibrant shade of lobster red and dealing with the inevitable pain (and health risks) that come with it is never fun, but according to one study, applying vitamin E to the skin post-sun exposure can decrease changes to sun-damaged cells.

Another study by the Yale School of Medicine also found that skin damage caused by UV rays continues for hours after the incident of sun exposure, but the lead scientist Douglas Brash found that Vitamin E was helpful in the repair of cells.

That's not to say this gives you a pass to wile away the day roasting under the sun. Although vitamin E may help to reduce damage, it's not a fix-all solution and it's definitely not a substitute for SPF, by any means.

Speaking to the Huff Post, Brash said, 'Vitamin E might work, if you can get it into the skin where it needs to go. But we don’t know whether it actually works — Vitamin E is not a slam dunk.'

According to Oskia Skincare, 'When Vitamin E is applied to the skin, a reduction of erythema, sunburn cells, chronic UV-B–induced skin damage, and photo-carcinogenesis is experienced. It should be noted however that Vitamin E does not itself have a sunscreen action.'

According to Dr Dara Suite, Medical Director and Aesthetic Doctor at The Well's, there are no treatments that can entirely prepare the skin for safe sun exposure. 'Limit sun exposure itself, and I advocate for wearing SPF, hats, and staying in the shade when possible,' says Dr Suite.

So while it's essential to remain vigilant, investing in a vitamin E-enriched product that helps with sunburn could be a game changer.

The best aftersuns with Vitamin E

£6.29

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Making full use of natural ingredients, this cooling gel formula is 95% aloe vera and vitamin E. The cooling sensation provides immediate short-term relief, while the nourishing ingredients provide sustained damage protection in the long-term.

£6.00

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Piz Buin is a tried-and-tested sun care brand that you'll likely find in many a bathroom cabinet. And for good reason — their aftersun lotion is enriched with nourishing shea butter and vitamin E, as well as Tanimel, a tan intensifying plant extract.

£4.99

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Reaping the benefits of vitamin E doesn't necessarily mean breaking the bank. This aftersun is infused with aloe vera, too, for added soothing and relief post-sun exposure.

£23.50

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This velvety smooth, milky formulation is a nourishing product to indulge your skin with post-sun exposure. Apply a generous dose of this vitamin E, almond oil and aloe vera-enriched aftersun to the skin for maximum relief.

6 Vitamin E-enriched sunscreens

£20.80

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The COSRX sunscreen boasts a non-drying formula that provides super-charged SPF 50+ defence against UV. Not only that, it is infused with Vitamin E to protect against environmental aggressors, too.

£30.00

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For daily protection try This Works. Their in transit skin defence is SPF 30 and contains calming Vitamin E, their antioxidant blend Bio Boost along with the anti-ageing and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid.

£19.99

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This oil-free, featherlight sunscreen is a universal product that works with all skin types. It is enriched with vitamin E in order to protect the skin from UVB rays and pollutants.

£13.20

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Beauty of Joseon is one of TikTok's favourite K-beauty brands, and it's easy to see why. Their rice sunscreen is vitamin rich, infused with vitamins B, C and E, as well and amino acids. It delivers SPF 50+ protection, and yet somehow doesn't leave a trace of white cast behind. Not to mention, it leaves skin with an enviable glow.

£42.00

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If there were ever a sunscreen that reaps the full benefit of vitamins, it would be this one. This Murad sunscreen makes use of vitamins C-F, which all work together to help the skin fight free radicals. It is enriched with a plethora of other skin-loving ingredients, too, including omega-packed chia seed.

£13.99

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If you have sensitive skin, you really can't go wrong with E45 products — and their sunscreen is no different. Strip it back to basics with an essential mix of SPF 30 and vitamin E, which is ultra-moisturising and non-greasy.

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