Now that summer has officially kicked off, we have every weekend beach trip planned to perfection. Swim, surf, sun, beach reads, repeat. But if you’re on the fence about which beauty necessities to pack in your beach bags, we have you covered with expert-approved products to keep you protected.
Obviously, SPF is a must, but what else are you supposed to put on to stay hydrated and worry-free? Find out the summer must-haves with recommendations from trusted derms and aestheticians from around the country. (Photo via Brit + Co)
1. Elta Clear SPF 46 ($33): Consider your search for a sunscreen that won’t make you break out or feel greasy over. “This is one of my favorites for anyone who seeks a great sunscreen that’s not overly moisturizing,” says Joel Schlessinger, a Nebraska-based dermatologist at Skin Specialists P.C. “It feels like a ‘city block’ sunscreen (AKA a daily SPF formula) but gives superior protection. It’s safe for acne-prone skin too.”
2. EOS Active Aloe Lip Balm With SPF 30 ($3): You may be focused on your skin, but it’s important to protect your lips too. “The skin on lips is extremely thin, making them more vulnerable to sun damage,” says Marnie Nussbaum, a dermatologist specializing in medical, cosmetic, and laser dermatology in New York City. “In order to protect them, it’s important to have a lip balm with SPF in your beach bag. This one offers SPF 30 UVA/UVB protection and 80 minutes of sweat/water resistance — a must-have for anyone who is spending time at the beach this summer.”
3. LovelySkin Aloe Vera Soothing Skin Relief ($29): Just in case your fun in the sun takes a turn for the worse, you’re going to want to find some relief fast. “If you’re getting burned, try this,” recommends Schlessinger. “It’s an antioxidant-rich treatment that helps calm inflammation, hydrate skin, and minimize peeling.”
4. Benefit Cosmetics Badgal Waterproof Mascara ($19): It’s a beach day, so you don’t need a ton of makeup. But a dab of mascara so you look awake won’t hurt, right? “I love this mascara because it’s waterproof and lasts!” says Deanne Mraz Robinson, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder and president at Modern Dermatology of Connecticut.
5. Simple Skincare Waterboost Micellar Wipes ($6): Shari Marchbein, a board-certified dermatologist at Downtown Dermatology in New York City, keeps a stash of these gentle cleansing wipes in her beach bag. “These are unscented and don’t leave any residue on the skin (like most other wipes)” she says. “They are perfect for removing makeup prior to applying sunscreen as well as removing sunscreen after a long day at the beach.”
6. Colorescience Brush-on Powder SPF 50 ($130 for 3): When you need a little SPF refresh after you’ve been out in the sun for a bit, this handy powdered, waterproof sunscreen stick is the answer. “I do not recommend this as a base or first layer of sunscreen, but it can be reapplied over makeup and on the body, too, if needed,” says Marchbein.
7. COOLA SPF 30 Scalp and Hair Mist ($26): “Don’t forget to protect your hair,” warns Elizabeth Houshmand, a dermatologist at Epiphany Dermatology in Dallas. “If you have highlights or color treated hair, you will want to take care of your locks. This scalp and hair mist is a great option.” Spray it directly on dry or wet hair before heading into the sun. Then just reapply as needed.
Looking for more summer beauty inspo? Follow us on Pinterest!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
