Thursday, July 21, 2016

Summer Essentials

Its summer here in the U.S. which means only one thing:
ITS THE BEST, MOST MAGICAL TIME OF THE YEAR. Don't let those Christmas junkies tell you differently--summer is the king of seasons.
However, though summer is totally amazing and enchanting, it's also unforgiving: blistering sunshine, drying water,  and weird tan lines, can put a damper on your summer fun. Luckily, I'm here as your summer expert (I was born in July--so yeah) with your absolute summer essentials:


1. SUNSCREEN

Capital Soleil SPF 60Per-fekt Matte Body Perfection Gel SPF 30

This is the MOST CRUCIAL summer essential--the sun can absolutely ruin your skin. I mean it; its not just tan lines or freckles you have to worry about: excessive sun exposure can cause premature aging and cancer. Yeah. So ditch the dangerous tanning, and instead choose a sunscreen (with at least a 30 SPF) that has self tanner built in.

2. One Piece

Image result for one piece swimsuitsImage result for one piece swimsuits
One piece swimsuits are really trending right now, but many of them include super cute, but potentially disastrous cut-outs (uh, hello horrific, impossible-to-even-out tan lines). So, do yourself a favor and choose a piece that omits the cutouts, and instead grab one with plunging neckline, a graphic, or a cute pattern to keep the drama. (Left to right: Nastygal, Billabong, ASOS)

3. Hats

Image result for beyonce lemonade merchandiseStructured Straw HatFrench Connection Wide Brim Floppy Straw Hat - Natural - M / L

Like one pieces, hats are having a huge moment right now, and thank goodness! Not only are they super cute, but they help keep your pretty face from being damaged by the sun. Whether you choose a boyish cap like this bomb lemon embossed one from Beyonce's Lemonade merch, or something more traditional like this straw hat from 2020AVE, or this floppy wide-brim hat from ASOS, you'll look great and take great care of your skin.

4. Lip Balm

Lemon Drop Smooth Sphere Lip Balm SPF 15e.l.f. Conditioning Lip Balm SPF 15, Romantic Rouge, 0.26 OunceWet n Wild Juicy SPF 15 Lip Balm 283C Strawberry

Its a terrible truth: we so often forget that our lips are ultra-sensitive to damage from the sun, and need to be protected just like the rest of our body. Luckily there are plenty of yummy, beautiful lip balms out there that help keep your lips smooth and safe! (Left to right: EOS Lemon Drop SPF 15, elf conditioning balm SPF 15, Wet 'N' Wild Juicy SPF 15.)

5. Body Butters

Image result for body butterImage result for body butterImage result for body butter

Sun, water and sand are all fun and games until you come home to find dry, cracking and agitated skin. Don't skip the beach, however--just make sure you are moisturizing everyday with some nutrient-rich, ultra hydrating body butters like these! (Go for body butters for a extra kick of moisture!)


The bottom line? Have fun, but take care of yourself! What are your favorite summer essentials?

Happy summer!