Should I Exfoliate After Sun Exposure? What Experts Recommend

Summary:
Exfoliating after sun exposure can help restore glow and smoothness, but only if done at the right time and with the right method. This expert-backed guide breaks down when it’s safe to exfoliate after beach or pool days, what kind of exfoliants to use, and how professional treatments like the ZO Stimulator Peel and NAD+ therapy can help with deeper recovery.

Why Post-Sun Skin Needs Special Attention

Whether you’re hiking in Colorado Springs or lounging poolside, extended sun exposure can leave your skin dull, dehydrated, and more sensitive. As a certified wellness coach, I often caution clients: Don’t exfoliate too soon after sun; it could do more harm than good.

Instead, take a balanced approach: cool, calm, and rehydrate first, then exfoliate gently for real results.

When Is It Safe to Exfoliate After Sun Exposure?

Wait 48–72 Hours After Intense Sun

If your skin is red, tight, or visibly irritated, give it time to heal. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, exfoliating inflamed or sunburned skin increases the risk of peeling, damage, and post-inflammatory pigmentation.

Wellness Tip: Focus on barrier repair first; think hydrating serums, cooling masks, and internal support like NAD+ to help your body bounce back faster.

Understanding Exfoliants: Chemical vs. Physical

Key takeaway: For post-sun care, skip scrubs and go for gentle, antioxidant-rich chemical exfoliants or professional-grade peels under expert guidance.

ZO Stimulator Peel: A Safe Reset for Summer Skin

The ZO Stimulator Peel is a non-invasive, no-downtime treatment that restores clarity and hydration with a blend of AHA exfoliants and calming botanicals.

Why It Works Post-Sun:

• Stimulates skin renewal without irritation
• Reduces dullness, texture, and inflammation
• Supports collagen for a healthier glow

Pairing it with a Cryoskin Facial offers even better results, lifting and toning the skin while the peel restores vibrancy.

Expert-Recommended Post-Sun Routine

Here’s a step-by-step plan to care for your skin after sun exposure:

Step 1: Hydrate & Recover (Days 1–2)

• Use aloe, hyaluronic acid, and calming masks
• Avoid scrubs, retinoids, and acids
• Boost recovery with a NAD+ IV or home injection kit

Step 2: Gentle Exfoliation (Days 3–4)

• Start with a mild AHA or enzyme-based peel
• Book the ZO Stimulator Peel + Cryoskin combo
• Apply SPF 50+ daily

Step 3: Maintain & Protect (Ongoing)

• Exfoliate 1–2x/week depending on your skin type
• Continue NAD+ for cellular repair and glow
• Keep SPF and antioxidants in your daily routine

NEW: NAD+ Home Injection Kit for Summer Recovery

NAD+ is our #1 go-to for post-sun repair, energy, and hydration, and now you can use it at home!

Here’s what you get:

• 1x IM NAD+ (250mg) to jumpstart recovery
• 5x SQ NAD+ (100mg) pre-filled syringes
• Safe, self-administered with support included
• Ongoing guidance from our expert team
  

NAD+ supports cellular repair, sleep, and skin health, all essential for bouncing back after sun exposure.

Bonus: Sunscreen Promo! 

Buy One, Get One 1/2 Off sunscreen through July 31
Because glowing skin is only great when it’s protected.

Ready for a Summer Skin Reset?

Try our Cryoskin + ZO Stimulator Peel combo: just $148 for new clients
Add the affordable NAD+ Home Kit for even better post-sun results

Click here to book your appointment.
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