There's nothing better than lazing on the beach, sipping a tequila-infused drink out of a coconut, skimming a mag, showing off your 8 Minute Abs. But you're forgetting something - like maybe a hunky pec-perfect guy to rub lotion on your back? No matter what your surfside fantasy is, the reality of skipping the ultra important step of applying high SPF sunscreen can be burning, peeling, and wrinkles down the road. Protect your epidermis—don’t forget to pack these sunblocking super products in your beach bag.
Fake and Bake
We admit it: The only time we ever skimp on the SPF is when we're afraid it will get in the way of a gorgeous tan. Indulge your vain side and slather on the Neutrogena Summer Glow Daily Moisturizer (1) with SPF 20 ($8.59) that triples as a sunscreen, moisturizing lotion, and self-tanner. And it can go where the sun doesn't shine to even out your tan lines.
Green Screen Going green can protect you from turning red with Alba's Organic Lavender Sunscreen SPF 30 (2) ($9.95). This water-resistant lotion uses lavender, aloe vera, chamomile, gingko biloba, and green tea to protect skin from free radicals.
Flies Away
No trip to the lake is complete without sunburn and mosquito bites. Kill two problems in one spray with Kiss My Face Sunswat Waterproof SunBlock & Natural Insect Repellant (3) ($9.59). The vegan formula fights off bugs using essential oils like tea tree instead of harmful pesticides.
Extreme Sport
If your beach gear is less iPod and lounge chair than surfboard and volleyball, you'll need protection from more than just the sun. La Roche-Posay offers fragrance-free, non-greasy Anthelios 15 Water Resistant Sunscreen Cream (4) ($29) with a strong SPF perfect for sensitive skin.
24/7/365
Even if you're not a Laguna Beach brat, Lancome's UV Expert 20 with Mexoryl (5) ($35) has you covered all year round. The lightweight lotion will take care of your face day to day and works with Mexoryl to protect from UV rays that cause premature aging.
Say it and Spray it
Okay, so maybe a spray sunblock takes all the fun out of that whole, "you missed a spot" cabana-boy daydream, but Aveeno's waterproof Continuous Protection Sunblock Spray (6) ($8.94) with SPF 45 is easy to use and stays with you all day.
