- Sunscreen, Sunscreen & Sunscreen
Relatively a no brainer, I know. But to this day, so many individuals don’t actively wear sunscreen on a regular basis. And get this, UV damage doesn’t care if you’re beach side. Damage to your skin from the sun can occur any time of the year, regardless of the weather. There’s arguments and misinformation all over the internet regarding sun protection, UV damage, how much sunscreen to use, and whether physical or chemical sunscreens are superior. When it comes down to it though, the best sunscreen is a sunscreen you will actually use. I prefer mineral based sunscreens on the face, simply because my skin-and eyes- often find completely chemical sunscreens irritating.
Hate most sunscreens? Check out my post on some of the most cosmetically elegant sunscreens I’ve used and loved.
If you have a deeper skin tone and find mineral sunscreens have too severe of a white cast, I highly recommend looking into hybrid sunscreens or tinted options if skin sensitivity to chemical sunscreens is also a problem for you.
My all time favorite hybrid sunscreen that is my every day go to, and sits beautifully under makeup is by the brand Drmtlgy .
Another important note: For those suffering from current acne or scarring, sun exposure can make things much worse. Despite the obscene rumor that the sun will “kill the bacteria” on your face. In fact, it’s far more likely to worsen redness, inflammation, and the appearance of acne scars.
Okay, what about reapplication? I’m as guilty as the next woman of wearing some makeup on the beach, if not a tinted sunscreen. Once I’m all done up, the idea of spreading around more sunscreen and therefore smearing around my makeup is hardly appealing. In those instances, I love a sunscreen setting spray or mist that’s designed to go over makeup. I love the one by Habit.
2. Hats, cover-ups, & sunglasses (Oh my!)
Physical barriers to protect your skin from the sun are so important. These days, you don’t even have to sacrifice fashion, or your wallet for that matter. Wide brim hats, sunglasses, beach over ups, UV protective shirts, beach umbrellas, are all great additions, just to name a few.
3. Sheet masks
This item might seem like the odd one out, but it can truly be a life saver. If you’re having an extended beach stay, nothing feels better than to kick back at night with a soothing (preferably chilled in the fridge) face mask. I go for aloe or hyaluronic acid ones. It is best to avoid any active ingredients like salicylic acid (BHA) or alpha hydroxy (AHA) based ones for now. With a great deal of sun exposure, chemical exfoliants could be really irritating to the skin and further predispose you for burns while you’re in the sun.
4. Body moisturizer w/aloe
Sun bum is a favorite when it comes to after sun products. I love an aloe lotion because it just seems to behave more reasonably, and saves you from that uncomfortable tacky dry down that aloe vera gel often has. After a long day at the beach, the last thing I want after my shower is a film of aloe that peels off throughout the evening like dead skin. Instead I opt for a hydrating aloe-based lotion that will leave my skin soothed and hydrated.
5. Facial roller
Similar concept as the sheet masks. Combining them though, wonderful. If your skin is prone to redness/irritation/inflammation and/or acne prone. These two together can do you all kinds of favors before bed to help soothe the face. I love a surgical stainless steel ice roller because they are so much easier to fully sanitize & they seem to stay colder longer than stone.
Disclaimer: I am not a physician. All articles are for informational purposes and based off personal experiences regarding the topic. Articles are not intended to treat or diagnose any conditions nor should they be taken as medical recommendations. Please consult your Doctor/Dermatologist for diagnosis or treatment. Individuals will experience treatments, procedures, and medications differently and your Doctor will determine if a treatment is right for you. Posts may contain affiliate links, for which I may receive a small compensation at no additional cost to the reader when a product is purchased. All opinions on products, treatments, and procedures are my own and based off personal experience. Photos used on the website and all social media accounts for femininefacets.com are either free for use stock images or taken by me unless otherwise stated. All content is written by me unless otherwise stated.