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Earlier this month, I updated your poolside wardrobe with my top picks for swimsuits and accessories this summer. Now you have your outfit and your beach bag stuffed with an oversized towel and a book, but there’s still one element missing: how to care for your skin in the sun. Here, my recommendations for easy-to-use, high-performing products to keep you looking naturally stunning all day long.
Sunscreen. Yes, I harp on this every season—for good reason. We live in a state with some of the highest skin cancer death rates in the country. To combat powerful UV rays—both A (reaches the dermis, or mid-layer of skin) and B (reaches the epidermis, or outer layer of skin)—pick up Solar Block by Sanitas. Its combination of zinc oxide, vitamin C, and melanin defend against UV light, while plankton enzymes (marine micro-algae) help repair the skin. $28, theskinfactor.com
Lips. Prevent your pout from drying out with Bite Beauty’s all-natural Agave Lip Mask Champaign. The latest version of this formula has a pretty rose-gold shimmer. Heads up: It’s a bit gooey, but it stays put for hours—even in water—and keeps lips moisturized. $26, sephora.com
Skin Perfectors. When I heard about Karora, my first thought was, What do folks in Ireland know about tanning? Turns out, they know quite a bit. Karora is among a new breed of self-tanners with a gray/violet base that keeps your skin from turning Oompa Loompa orange. Instead, expect a golden Mediterranean glow. The brand’s star product is the CC Cream Skin Sensation, which evens out skin tone, reduces redness, and hides imperfections such as fine lines and veins. Important note: The self-tanner does not contain sunscreen. $35, ulta.com and bigelowchemists.com
Post-Sun Skin. Whether you’re lounging at the pool or the beach, you’re exposed to plenty of harsh elements (sun, salt, and/or chlorine). Heal skin’s hydrolipdic film (its natural protection barrier) with Avene’s After-Sun Repair Lotion. This lightweight cream-gel absorbs quickly to replenish lost moisture and soothe irritation. Bonus: Its hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formula means it can be used on both your face and your body. $29, aveneusa.com
Hair Care. Just like skin, hair often takes a beating during the summer months. To repair dry, damaged, and brittle ends, treat your tresses to Klorane’s Desert Date Leave-In Cream ($14, klorane.com). The date extract nourishes and smooths the hair cuticle while simultaneously helping to prevent breakage caused by brushing. If you’re looking to amp up your natural curl or wave, try Ouidad’s Wave Create Sea Spray ($23, ulta.com and ouidad.com). Apply to damp hair and let the algae extracts, sea kelp, and vitamin B5 work their magic to create tousled volume and texture and keep hair nourished and shiny.
Bonus Pick: Regardless of skin type, everyone can use a little help to achieve that sought-after sun-kissed glow. The Slim Aarons X Napoleon Perdis Limited-Edition Color Collection combines all the essentials—a golden cream highlighter and matte bronzer for the face, as well as a universally flattering soft nude crème lipstick—in one travel-ready cosmetic bag. $145, napoleonperdis.com
Follow fashion editor Georgia Benjou on Twitter at @gabenjou and on Pinterest.
