As a film production crew member your life is quite like a pirate, constantly on the go, working long hours and braving the elements. All that outdoor shooting can be tough on your skin and a little TLC can go a long way in making everything better. With a little bit of know-how and the right products, you can keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
Before the shoot, it’s important to be aware of skincare products that may cause irritation or allergic reactions. It’s best to keep things simple and use a basic moisturizer. Products containing exfoliating acids (many scrubs and toners contain these) such as alpha-hydroxy acids or beta-hydroxy acids and retinoids (found in most anti-aging products) can cause irritation and make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Also avoid products with fragrances or essential oils can cause allergic reactions or irritation.
Just be mindful of these ingredients and test any new products before using them before or on the day of the shoot.
On-shoot skincare
First things first, let’s talk about sun protection. We all know that the sun’s harmful UV rays can damage the skin, causing wrinkles, age spots, and even skin cancer. But, with a few wardrobe tweaks and the right sunscreen, you can fend off all those issues.
Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30-50, and re-apply it every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.
This might sound basic but don’t forget to wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats. They’ll keep you looking cool and protect your skin from the sun. If possible, take breaks in the shade during the hottest parts of the day to rest and protect your skin.
Oh and HYDRATION is key, drink enough water!
Post-shoot skincare
After the shoot, it’s time to pamper your skin!
Cleanse: Use a good face wash to get rid of the grime of the day. It will also remove any remaining sunscreen and other impurities and make you feel lighter. A cold water bath after a long day could help too.
Moisturize: Your skin has been through a lot today so keep it hydrated with a nice moisturizer.
Treating Sunburns
If any part of your skin is irritated or sunburned, here are a few to treat that:
Cool down: Take a cool shower or bath to help cool down the skin and reduce inflammation. You can also use a cool compress, such as a damp cloth to help soothe the uncomfortable sensations.
Hydrate the skin: Sunburned skin can be dehydrated, so it’s important to keep it well-moisturized. Nothing beats natural chilled aloe vera to help soothe and hydrate the skin. But in case that is hard to come by, cooling gels or products with aloe vera in them should work just fine.
Avoid further sun exposure: While your sunburned skin is healing, it’s important to avoid further sun exposure to prevent further damage. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you’re going to be outside.
And don’t forget, even if the shoot is over, it’s important to continue to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from further damage. Getting enough sleep is also important for overall health and can also help your skin recover from the stress of being out in the sun all day. And remember, if you have any concerns about skin allergies or severe burns, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist. Now go out there and shine on!
