In our fantasies, summer is a romantic, glamorous season, filled with long, golden days and not a cloud in sight. Our limbs are tan and glowing, our hair tumbles in mermaid waves, and there’s never, ever a mosquito or the presence of sweat-inducing humidity. The reality? Not so much. Yes, summer is glorious, but it can also majorly cramp one’s beauty style. Once we’re mid-way through the season, I find myself covered in bug bites, sandal-induced blisters, with random burns and tan lines and despite myself, I start counting the days until Labor Day.
Once I calm down, however, I realize that the answer isn’t to just stay inside in the air conditioning until September. When I’m armed with the right products and tools, I can sail through this season feeling…okay, maybe not like a sun kissed goddess, but not like a sweaty, itchy mess. Check out my list of “summer S.O.S.” beauty essentials and let me know—which products do you rely on to save your skin during these warmer months?
Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen
The number one summer rescue item on my list? Sunscreen—duh! Despite the fact that this is the most obvious summer beauty essential ever, I have to admit that I forget that it exists more often than I should, and then I’m totally confuddled when I end up with sunburned shoulders after an outdoor workout. This year, I’m all about all-natural sport sunscreens for their non-toxic yet sweatproof.
Supergoop! Perk Up! Lip and Cheek Treat SPF 40
Next up: protecting your lips. They’re one of the most delicate parts of your body and one of the most likely to burn. I love that this Supergoop tint provides that mermaid-like glow while also protecting with SPF 40!
Oway Sunway After-Sun Body Balm
If you do get too much sun (it happens to us all—it happened to me last week!), stash a luxurious and soothing balm to get skin on the mend more quickly.
Sail Away Bug Spray by Captain Blankenship
For a bug spray that isn’t chemical-laden or stinky, try this lavender-infused spritz—maybe not ideal if you’re going to an area with Zika, but totally fine for your average steamy summer evening.
Combat Ready Skin Balm by Skincando
Whether you have bumps, bruises, scrapes, bug bites, or blisters, a swipe of this rich balm will heal your skin in no time.
While said bumps and bruises are healing, why not slap on a bandage that doesn’t totally cramp your summer style? These Oh Joy! for Target bandages will keep infections at bay while putting a smile on your face.
After-Bug Balm Itch Relief by Badger
If mosquito bites have you up itching at night, try this bug balm—just a dab makes a surprising difference when you feel like you could crawl out of your skin!
