August 9, 2012
As an avid swimmer and diver throughout my college years, trust me when I tell you that I have already used up my allotted time in the elements. We also have two little freckled-faced beauties that are so fair our dermatologist once told me, “Valerie, you guys can go outside, just do it before 9:00 am and after 4:00 pm.” Hmm…right. My girls are of the California variety- we spend long days at the beach, in the pool, climbing trees, playing sports, and general outdoor futzing around. So, what’s a girl to do?
Well, I take our personal defense against the sun seriously. I’ve found good hats and great products that allow us to have our beach days while also staying protected. Here’s the latest round of what’s in my beach bag as we explore the islands.
Sun Bum is all natural, smells like a banana daiquiri and it goes on like moisturizer—which is so much better than the usual stickiness. On the back it says it’s ultra waterproof, sweat proof with vitamin E and it’s paraben-free, oil-free, and anti-aging (I’m in).
Colore Science PRO Sunforgettable
This powder in a tube is brilliant for the tops of heads and ears. We have thin blonde hair surrounded by the whitest of white scalps in our clan, and a quick dusting of this makes for easy protection.
Lancer Rx Vitamin C Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 30
This is the sunscreen I use every single morning on my face and chest. Because even though most days I think I won’t be leaving my blog cave wrapped in my robe— thankfully, I usually end up being called by the sunshine into the garden, hiking or other outdoor activities.
My dermatologist friend, who is also a mom, told me about these sunscreen wipes. I love having a stash of them in my handbag for those days when we are running late and I forget to lotion up the girls with sunscreen. The wipes make it a snap to apply and come individually wrapped so they don’t dry out.
My kids prefer to use the stick on their face instead of the creams. Anything that brings me less resistance to the daily task of applying sun block is good for me.
