Summertime means fun in the sun, with long beach days, pool parties, barbecue cookouts and so much more.

And while it’s great to enjoy all the outdoor activities, it’s important to make sure you’re properly prepared, especially when it comes to your beauty routine. One common mistake that many people make before hitting the sand and surf is failing to protect their skin from UV exposure and the damaging effects of saltwater and chlorine. Here are some tips to avoid this beauty blunder:.

1. Not wearing sunscreen

The first and most important step to protect your skin before heading out to the beach or pool is to apply a good sunscreen.

Look for one that has a broad-spectrum formula and an SPF of at least 30, which can help prevent sunburn, premature aging and even skin cancer. Apply the sunscreen liberally all over your body, including your face, neck and ears, and be sure to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating, even if the sunscreen is labeled as water-resistant.

2. Skipping the lip balm

Another area that is often overlooked when it comes to sun protection is the lips. Lips are just as vulnerable to the sun’s harmful rays as the rest of the body.

But unlike the rest of the body, lips do not produce melanin, the pigment that helps protect the skin from UV damage. As a result, lips can easily become dry, chapped, and sunburned. To avoid this, apply a lip balm with SPF protection before you head out into the sun.

3. Forgetting to protect the hair

UV exposure can damage not only the skin but also the hair, causing dryness, brittleness, and color fading. To protect your hair from the sun, sea, and chlorine, wear a hat or a bandana.

You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or a hair mask that contains UV filters before swimming or sunbathing. Don’t forget to rinse your hair with fresh water after swimming to remove any salt or chlorine residue.

4. Not hydrating the skin

Spending a day in the sun and saltwater can dehydrate the skin and make it look dull and lifeless. To keep your skin hydrated, drink plenty of water and apply a moisturizer after showering.

Look for a lightweight formula that won’t clog the pores, such as a gel or a lotion. You can also use a facial mist or a hydrating serum throughout the day to refresh and revitalize the skin.

5. Overloading on makeup

While it’s tempting to wear a full face of makeup to the beach, it’s not the best idea. Makeup can mix with sweat and oil, clog the pores, and cause breakouts, especially if you’re wearing a heavy foundation or powder.

Instead, go for a natural, minimalist look. Wear a tinted moisturizer with SPF, a waterproof mascara, and a lip balm. If you must wear eye shadow or blush, choose a cream formula that won’t cake or crease in the heat.

6. Ignoring the after-sun care

Once you’re done with the beach for the day, it’s important to take care of your skin to avoid any lasting damage.

Take a cool shower to rinse off the salt and sand, and apply a soothing aftersun lotion or aloe vera gel to calm any redness or irritation. If you have a sunburn, avoid any further sun exposure, and apply a hydrocortisone cream or take an anti-inflammatory medication to ease the pain and swelling.

7. Neglecting other areas of the body

When it comes to sun protection, it’s not just the face and body that need attention. Other areas that are often overlooked include the eyes, the scalp, and the hands.

Wear sunglasses that have UV protection to avoid eye damage, and apply a scalp sunscreen or wear a hat to protect the scalp from burning. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the tops of your hands and the back of your neck, as these areas are often exposed to the sun.

8. Assuming that a tan is healthy

Finally, it’s important to remember that a suntan is not a sign of healthy skin. In fact, any color change in the skin is a sign of damage. Tans are caused by the skin producing melanin to protect itself from UV damage.

While a tan may make you look more attractive to some people, it’s ultimately not worth the risk of developing skin cancer or premature aging. Instead, embrace your natural skin tone and enjoy the sun with proper protection.

Conclusion

By taking a few simple steps to protect your skin before and after spending time in the sun and surf, you can ensure that you look and feel your best all summer long.

Remember to wear sunscreen, protect your lips, hair and other vulnerable areas, hydrate your skin, go easy on the makeup, and take care of any sunburn or irritation. With these beauty tips in mind, you’re sure to have a great time soaking up the sun safely.