Essentials for Your Perfect Beach Day
Mid-July has arrived and that means we are in the swing of the beach season. No matter where you may be, whether you live along the coast or are going on a beach vacation, we have you covered with essentials to give you the perfect beach experience. From your swimsuit and coverup, to the ideal sunscreen, to even any activities you need, here is a list of a variety of items you need to have fun in the sun.
To start, we have provided a list of brands for sustainable and affordable swimsuits and coverups. It’s essential to find the perfect swimsuit to make you feel cute and comfortable, but also realize your impact on the environment depending on where you shop. Below are two brands that are known for their sustainability and depending on the piece can be within a reasonable budget.
Swimsuits:
LONDRE Swimwear
Londre swimwear is a sustainable yet high quality made garments. Londre has so far recycled “200,000 plastic bottles off of beaches and streets into their sustainable offerings” and has been recycled into new materials. You are able to feel confident in their pieces while also helping keep the environment safe. From tops, bottoms, one-pieces, to a variety of apparel, you can find any kind of piece to make you feel your best. Although these pieces do go for a higher price, it can be worth it to invest in a good swimsuit that will last you for a long time while also helping the environment and having the lowest possible impact. Price ranges from $30 to $180.
prAna
This affordable yet sustainable brand focuses on organic and recycled outdoor clothing for everyone to stay active in. It offers ethical and affordable clothing for yoga, travel, and outdoor adventure and a wide range for bathing suits to perfect your beach look. Prices range from $20-$90 which can be more affordable depending on your budget.
Melanoma of skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in America. That’s why it’s extremely important you invest in a sunscreen that will protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Below are some brands that dermatologists have recommended to keep your skin having a fun yet safe day in the sun as well as some tips to make sure you’re keeping your skin protected. Always remember to keep your skin protected beyond sunscreen! That means having a good coverup, sunglasses, a hat, and most importantly, keeping yourself hydrated and taking breaks in the shade.
Sunscreen:
Always go water-resistant. Even if you know you won’t be going for a swim, a water-resistant sunscreen will stay on even when sweating. Depending on how strenuous your outdoor activity is, dermatologists recommend an SPF or at least 30. If you’re doing an extensive outdoor activity, then it’s recommended to do an SPF of 50.
When in doubt, choose lotions. Although some prefer sprays because it is quicker, with lotions you are more likely to provide a generous and even amount to your skin. Sprays can be inconsistent, and lotions are usually the better option, especially if you're spending a lot of time outdoors and in the sun. No matter which type you choose, always make sure you’re spending the time rubbing it in to ensure you’re keeping yourself from getting burned.
Neutrogena Dry-Touch, Water-Resistant, and Non-Greasy Lotion (SPF 100)
“I tell patients to choose a product with the highest SPF possible,” says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “In the real world, we do not apply as much sunscreen as we should. Starting out with a higher SPF acts as an insurance policy to give the highest level of protection for the longest period of time.” This sunscreen is rated as best overall and will get the job done for a long day out on the beach.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 Facial Sunscreen
If you have acne-prone skin, then this facial sunscreen is for you. This fragrance and paraben-free lotion is lightweight on your skin and won’t clog your pores. But the rave reviews also come from the fact that it’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, which is a humectant that pulls water to your skin, therefore giving your skin an extra boost of hydration.
Not sure what to do when you’re on the beach? You’re not into building sandcastles, tired of cornhole, and can’t sit still? Here are some activities to help alleviate some boredom people can have on the beach. Everyone is different in terms of what they enjoy for fun, whether it’s doing your own relaxing on the beach or you want to get up and do something, here is a brief list of some new things to try.
Activities
Waterproof and Sandproof Speaker
Arguably, one of the best activities to do on the beach is to listen to music. Whether it’s bringing your earbuds for some music of your own, or consider bringing a speaker if you’re with a group of friends or family. When bringing a speaker, always make sure it's waterproof and sandproof, and Bluetooth so your phone doesn’t roast in the sun.
Fun Beach Games
Spikeball
Since being reviewed in 2018, Spikeball continues to dominate as a popular beach game. It’s easy to learn and involves teams of people, so get your friends or family members because it will bring the competitiveness out of anyone. This kit involves a drawstring carrying bag to make it easy to transport and all items are portable to help with storage.
Kan Jam
Originally dubbed as “Garbage Can Frisbee,” Kan Jam takes aspects of frisbee, cornhole, and basketball to create a whole new version of a fun outdoor game. This is the perfect beach game because of the little equipment it provides and easy rules to follow. This game requires four players and is sure to also bring the competitive streak out of anyone.
Having a fun and safe beach day takes some practice depending on what your version of a perfect beach day is, especially when you are with other people. Hopefully, this list can help provide some ideas on how to have fun, look your best, and be safe in the sun.
