Daniela Silva, an internal medicine specialist at Cigna Healthcare España in Madrid, has recommended applying facial moisturizer before sunscreen to ensure even sun protection.
Silva explained that overly complex morning beauty routines can be counterproductive and difficult to sustain over time. She noted that simpler, more consistent skincare habits produce better long-term results for skin health.
To build an effective morning skincare routine, Silva outlined a four-step process. She recommended starting with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities accumulated overnight, followed by a serum containing vitamin C to provide antioxidant protection against air pollution and environmental stress. A moisturizing cream should then be applied to keep the skin balanced, followed by sunscreen as an essential final step to prevent cumulative solar damage.
Proper Order for Daily Protection
The recommended sequence requires applying moisturizer before sunscreen rather than reversing the steps. Silva said that moisturizing helps prepare and balance the skin, which is particularly important for individuals prone to dry skin.
Well-hydrated skin allows sunscreen to spread more easily and evenly across the face. Silva noted that this smooth distribution promotes more effective and uniform protection against ultraviolet radiation, ensuring the skin reaches the sun protected rather than dehydrated or uncomfortable.
Skincare brand Lierac also supported applying moisturizer before sun protection as part of a simple daily routine. However, the firm noted that people experiencing hot flashes or heavy sweating can opt to apply serum followed directly by sunscreen, adapting the routine to their immediate needs.
Preparing Skin for Beach and Pool Visits
Heading to the beach or pool involves intense solar exposure alongside contact with salt water or chlorine, both of which dry out skin and weaken its natural protective barrier. Silva said applying moisturizer beforehand reinforces this barrier and reduces feelings of skin tightness and irritation.
For practical beach preparations, Silva advised applying moisturizer and letting the skin absorb it fully for 10 to 15 minutes before applying sunscreen generously. This pause allows the moisturizer to prepare the skin first, allowing the sunscreen to settle better and distribute more evenly for homogeneous protection.
Lierac pointed out that when heading directly to the water, applying sunscreen is the top priority. The brand advised choosing an appropriate formula, applying a sufficient amount, and reapplying it frequently. For dry or tight skin during direct beach visits, Lierac recommended selecting a moisturizing and nourishing sunscreen.
Post-Sun Care and Aftersun Products
After spending time in the sun, skin requires specific care to recover from ultraviolet exposure. Silva recommended applying aftersun products rather than standard moisturizers when skin feels warm, sensitive, or reddened.
Aftersun formulas contain soothing active ingredients such as aloe vera, calendula, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Silva explained that these components help relieve heat sensations, restore lost moisture, and support the recovery of the skin barrier following radiation stress.
Silva added that conventional moisturizing creams remain a valid alternative if the skin is not irritated or red, as they successfully restore hydration and balance after contact with sun, sea water, or pool chlorine. Lierac agreed, noting that while gentle repairing moisturizers work well on calm skin, dedicated post-sun products are preferable when skin feels hot, red, or tight.
Delaying Dark Spot Removal Until Autumn
Intensive treatments to remove skin spots or hyperpigmentation should be postponed until after the summer season. Silva warned that increased summer sun exposure leaves skin more reactive, making aggressive procedures risky.
Aggressive skin treatments during summer can trigger inflammation and a rebound effect, causing dark spots to reappear with even greater intensity. Silva noted that skin requires a dedicated recovery period after such procedures, during which sun exposure can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation or scarring complications.
Because strong and constant summer sunlight makes controlling post-treatment recovery difficult, experts recommend leaving intensive procedures for cooler months. However, Silva noted that individuals can still take preventative measures during summer to stop existing spots from worsening.
