It’s summertime–time to hit the sand and surf. And hey, you’re on vacation, so some of your beauty regimen will definitely take a back seat. However, it is really important to follow good hair and skin care while you’re out in the sun.
Sun damage is real and should not be taken lightly. A sunburn is painful for a few days, but the sun can create long-term damage to your skin and your hair. The sun, the sand, the salt, and the chlorine from the pool can add up to lots of damage.
It’s not just what you put on your face that counts. Hydration plumps up your skin from the inside, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water. Remember, you’re in the sun for hours a day, so you’re sweating a lot more.
Your skin loses more moisture when you’re out in the sun, so moisturize your face more often—at least two times a day. Try to use a potion with hyaluronic acid if you have really dry skin, and try to use your own products rather than the hotel samples. Cleanse your face really well before applying moisturizer to remove all the sunscreen, grit and grime of your beach day so that your moisturizer is really working rather than just sitting on top of other ingredients.
Many spa owners advise skipping a facial when you’re on vacation, especially if it is your first one. If there’s peer pressure because everyone is getting facials, avoid having any deep treatments like exfoliation or peels. Instead, get a facial when you return. A deep clean will remove dead cells and clear away the gunky sunscreen from your pores, and a green mask will hydrate and calm the skin.
No matter how well you tan, or how much time you’ve already spent in the sun, you should ALWAYS wear sunscreen—no matter what! Apply it generously to your skin to cover all areas. At the beach, a waterproof, sweatproof sunscreen is recommended. They’re made with zinc or titanium and are generally less oily and greasy than traditional sunscreens. Your hotel might provide sunscreen, but dermatologists say to bring your own so you know exactly what you’re getting.
You probably spent hours deciding what to pack, and that cute little hat might be in your suitcase, but when it comes to the sun, your hat has to have a purpose. Oh, and if you’re hitting the pool, don’t forget a swim cap. It’s the best thing to protect from chlorine, and hey, they really do look pretty cool.
Wear the same makeup you usually wear, but add a base layer of a cream or powder that has SPF in it.
We all do it. We get our hair cut right before vacation so we’ll look great. But many hairstylists say to wait. You don’t know how your hair might react to all the humidity and salt water, so it’s best to hold off. A short haircut that is low maintenance is okay to do beforehand. Hotels may not have the greatest shampoos and conditioners, so pack your own travel sizes. It’s actually a great time to experiment with your hair. Go more natural rather than spending time straightening and styling. Avoid getting highlights before going to the beach; it’s best to let the sun work its magic with natural highlights. But no matter what you do, always make sure to moisturize your hair on a beach vacation. When you’re back home, use intensive moisture hair products with coconut or jojoba oil—these products moisturize and they great tropical smell will remind you of the beach.
Alright! You’re ready. Hit the beach using these great tips and you’ll look great during and after your vacation!