We celebrated the 2016 solstice yesterday, and now I’m ready to hit the beach to get some relief from the scorching Southern California heat. No matter where you’ll spend the hottest time of the year, do yourself a favor and grab these goodies for the best summer yet.
Throw Your Hat in the Ring (or Your Bag)
Covering up should be your first line of defense for sun exposure, and what better summer accessory is there than a big, floppy hat? Wearing a hat (and other lightweight fabrics) can protect your skin from up to 27% of UV rays, according to Environmental Working Group. UV rays “generate free radicals that damage DNA and skin cells,” notes the EWG, accelerating skin aging and potentially causing skin cancer. So stay young and healthy by donning that chapeau, reducing your exposure during peak sun hours, and chillaxin’ in the shade.
Ladies (and Gentlemen), Wear Sunscreen
Mom was right--you can’t spend a day poolside if you’re not generously slathered in sunscreen. When it comes to skin protection, expiration dates matter, so grab a new, water resistant cream with UVA and UVB protection that contains either zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. According to EWG, these minerals are “stable in sunlight, offer a good balance between protection from the two types of ultraviolet radiation and don’t often contain potentially harmful additives.” Also, beware of brands promising an SPF over 50. Research shows little difference in the protection rates of sunscreens with higher SPFs, and the key to keeping sun damage at bay is reapplication--every two hours on the dot, more often as directed if you’re in the water. See how your favorite brand rates in EWG’s 2016 Guide to Sunscreens.
Foundation, Foundation, Foundation (Foundation!)
Not a day goes by when I don’t wear Sheer Miracle’s Pure Mineral Foundation. Like a good sunscreen should, the Pure Mineral Foundation boasts an SPF of 30 and gets its sun protecting strength from titanium dioxide. It doubles as concealer when applied directly to discolored areas, and it won’t clog your pores or cause irritation. Brush it on after your sunscreen absorbs for perfectly even skin tone. There’s no reason you can’t be glamorous even when you’re on holiday.
I Wear My Sunglasses At Night (and During the Day)
Not only can you discreetly sneak peeks at cuties in their Speedos from beneath your specs, you can protect your eyes from UV radiation which can cause cataracts, according to the National Eye Institute. Sunglasses block out blue light from the solar spectrum, which helps reduce your risk for macular degeneration. While you’re picking up new sunscreen and a hat, make sure to buy sunglasses that block out 99-100% of both UVA and UVB radiation. You’ll be the healthiest ecochic beauty at the party!
Somewhere Beyond the Sea (Mineral Hydrating Mist)
Nothing says summer more than moisture kissed skin, and Sheer Miracle’s Sea Mineral Hydrating Mist does the trick. Spray it on before you apply sunscreen, or refresh yourself with a couple of cool spritzes while lounging poolside. The dead sea salt helps your skin retain moisture while the hyaluronic acid plumps up your body’s natural collagen producing capabilities. Wanna look like a surfer girl? Dampen your locks with the Sea Mineral Hydrating Mist, braid or twist your hair, and let it dry while you’re relaxing. You’ll have beautiful, beachy waves by dinner.
(Mineral) Sunshine is My Favorite Accessory
Sure, you wanna look like you vacationed in Monaco, but you don’t want the sun damage that comes with a lovely tan. Sheer Miracle to the rescue! Grab the Pure Mineral Bronzer and apply a tiny amount to places the sun would naturally hit your face (cheekbones, tip of the nose and chin, peak of the forehead). Then enjoy weaving a tale about the French painter you snogged on Capri while getting that perfectly golden glow.
Happy Summer!
About the Author: Gia Mora
Smart, sexy, sassy GIA MORA is an accomplished actor, a vocal dynamo with a four-octave range, and a writer with an astute sense of humor. She brings her unique blend of brains and beauty to her work on screen and stage, and now as the newest artist signed to Modern Songbook Records.