Sunburns, Chlorine, and Skin Repair: A Functional Approach to Post-Summer Skin
Summer is full of sunshine, swimming, and fun—but all that UV exposure, saltwater, and chlorine can leave your skin feeling dry, irritated, and inflamed by the time August rolls around.
While conventional skincare may focus on surface-level hydration, functional medicine goes deeper—addressing skin healing from the inside out through diet, detox support, and targeted nutrients.
Here’s how to nourish and repair your skin as you transition out of summer and into fall.
1. Rehydrate & Repair Sun-Damaged Skin
Sunburns and chronic UV exposure can impair your skin barrier, accelerate aging, and deplete your antioxidant stores.
Functional support tips:
Aloe vera gel (pure, unscented) soothes inflammation and promotes healing.
Cold-pressed coconut oil or jojoba oil helps replenish moisture and reduce flaking.
Vitamin C serum can brighten and help reverse UV-induced oxidative damage.
Liposomal Vitamin C (internally) supports collagen synthesis and skin repair from the inside.
Bonus tip: Avoid heavy, chemical-laden moisturizers that clog pores—opt for clean, non-comedogenic options.
2. Detox from Chlorine, Sunscreens, and Environmental Stress
Pool chemicals, synthetic sunscreens, and environmental pollutants can build up on the skin—and in the body.
Functional medicine recommends:
Epsom salt baths (2–3x per week) to support detoxification via the skin and lymphatic system.
Dry brushing to stimulate circulation and promote cellular turnover.
Milk thistle, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and glutathione for deeper liver support, especially if you've used chemical sunscreens or consumed alcohol.
Switch to mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if you haven't already—they’re safer for you and for the environment.
3. Feed Your Skin from the Inside Out
Your skin is your largest organ, and it relies on key nutrients to stay firm, smooth, and resilient.
Focus on:
Collagen-rich foods: bone broth, grass-fed gelatin, and slow-cooked meats
Vitamin A: sweet potatoes, carrots, leafy greens (supports cell turnover)
Omega-3 fatty acids: wild-caught salmon, flax, chia (reduce inflammation and dryness)
Zinc: pumpkin seeds, lentils, and pastured meats (supports wound healing)
Consider a collagen peptide supplement with added hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C for bonus support.
4. Hydrate Properly (It’s Not Just Water)
Dehydration shows up fast in the skin—think dullness, fine lines, and poor elasticity.
Beyond water, hydrate with:
Electrolyte-rich drinks (coconut water, LMNT, or homemade versions)
Cucumber, watermelon, citrus fruits, and other high-water-content foods
Herbal teas like calendula or nettle, which also support skin health and detox
Avoid sugary beverages and excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate and deplete minerals.
5. Reset Your Skincare Routine for Fall
As the weather begins to cool, your skin’s needs shift. Summer routines that work for heat and humidity may cause dryness or irritation as temperatures drop.
Functional fall skincare tips:
Switch to cream-based cleansers and moisturizers
Exfoliate gently (1–2x/week) with enzymes or lactic acid
Consider adding a ceramide-rich product to restore your skin barrier
Use niacinamide (vitamin B3) topically to reduce redness and inflammation
The Functional Takeaway
Your skin tells the story of what’s happening inside your body—from inflammation and hydration to detox capacity and nutrient status.
Post-summer is the perfect time to reset, repair, and nourish your skin at every level—so you can glow into fall and beyond.
Want Personalized Skin Support?
At MotherRoot Integrated Wellness, we help you uncover the root causes of skin issues using lab testing, nutrition, and personalized protocols. Whether it’s acne, eczema, sun damage, or premature aging—we’ve got solutions that go deeper.
This information should never substitute medical advice or go against any professional medical recommendations. It is important to seek guidance from qualified healthcare providers for personalized care tailored to your unique health needs. Integrative approaches can enhance well-being, but they should always complement, not replace, traditional medical advice and treatment plans. Listening to your body and consulting with professionals is paramount in maintaining a balanced approach to health and wellness.
American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). How to treat sunburn. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/sunburn/relieve
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Harmful effects of UV rays. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Chlorine and your skin: How to protect yourself. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/chlorine-and-your-skin/
Institute for Functional Medicine. (n.d.). Skin health and functional medicine. https://www.ifm.org
National Institutes of Health. (2023). Vitamin C: Fact sheet for health professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/
O’Connor, A., & Vargas, C. (2019). The role of nutrition in skin health. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 12(2), 28–34. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6715121/
