Going to the beach is a lot of fun, but it can also be damaging to your skin and hair. To make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time in the sun, it is important to avoid certain beauty mistakes.

Here are the top 30 beauty mistakes to avoid on the beach:.

Skincare Mistakes

1. Not Applying Sunscreen

One of the biggest mistakes people make when going to the beach is not applying sunscreen. Sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays which can lead to skin damage, premature ageing, or skin cancer.

Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours.

2. Applying Sunscreen Incorrectly

Another common mistake is applying sunscreen incorrectly. People often apply too little sunscreen or forget to apply it to certain areas like their ears, feet, or hands.

Make sure to apply sunscreen generously on all exposed skin, 30 minutes before going into the sun, and reapply it frequently.

3. Not Wearing Protective Clothing

While sunscreen is important, it is not enough on its own. To protect your skin completely, wear protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses.

This will help to block the sun’s harmful rays from your skin and prevent sunburn and skin damage.

4. Using Expired or Old Sunscreen

Sunscreen has an expiry date, and it loses its effectiveness over time. Using expired or old sunscreen can lead to sunburn, skin damage, and even skin cancer. Always check the expiry date before using sunscreen and avoid using it after its expiration.

5. Skipping Skincare Routine

Don’t skip your skincare routine just because you’re at the beach. Your skin still needs to be hydrated, cleansed, and protected from the sun.

Incorporate a gentle cleanser, toner, and moisturizer into your routine and follow it as you would at home.

6. Not Drinking Enough Water

Dehydration can cause dry skin, and it can also be dangerous on the beach. Make sure to drink enough water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and your body cool.

Makeup Mistakes

7. Wearing Heavy Makeup

The beach is not the place for heavy makeup. Not only will you look unnatural, but you will also run the risk of makeup melting or clogging your pores. Instead, go for a natural look and wear minimal makeup like tinted moisturizer, mascara, and lip balm.

8. Not Wearing Waterproof Makeup

If you must wear makeup on the beach, make sure to wear waterproof makeup. This will prevent your makeup from running or smudging when you sweat or swim.

9. Wearing Dark Lipstick

Dark lipstick can look harsh in sunlight. On the beach, opt for softer shades of pink, peach, or nude for a more natural look.

10. Not Removing Makeup

Make sure to remove all your makeup before going into the water. Leaving makeup on can clog pores and irritate your skin. Use a makeup remover or cleansing wipe to clean your face.

11. Overapplying Perfume

Perfume can react with the sun and cause skin pigmentation, irritation, or allergic reactions. Avoid overapplying perfume, and instead, opt for scented body lotions or oils.

Hair Mistakes

12. Not Protecting Hair

Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun, saltwater, and chlorine. Wear a hat or cap, or tie your hair up to prevent damage and breakage.

13. Not Using Leave-In Conditioner

Leave-in conditioner can help protect your hair from sun, saltwater, and chlorine. Apply a good leave-in conditioner before going to the beach to keep your hair soft and hydrated.

Related Article Don’t make this beauty blunder before hitting the sand and surf

14. Rough Towel Drying

Roughly towel-drying your hair can lead to breakage and split ends. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess water with a towel or use a microfiber towel to dry your hair.

15. Applying Hair Products

Avoid using heavy hair products like gels or hairsprays on the beach. These products can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. Instead, opt for light hair serums or leave-in conditioners that are specially designed for the beach.

16. Brushing Wet Hair

Wet hair is fragile and prone to breakage. Avoid brushing your hair when it’s wet. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair gently.

Tanning Mistakes

17. Not Using Self-Tanner

A self-tanner is a safer way to get a sun-kissed glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. Apply the self-tanner evenly on your skin and avoid overapplying it on certain areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.

18. Using Tanning Beds

Tanning beds are not a safe way to get a tan. They emit harmful UV rays that can cause skin damage, premature ageing, or skin cancer. Avoid using tanning beds altogether.

19. Overexposing Skin to Sun

Excessive sun exposure can cause sunburn, skin damage, or skin cancer. It is important to limit your sun exposure, especially during peak hours (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Seek shade or take breaks under an umbrella or a beach tent.

20. Not Wearing Protective Eyewear

Exposure to UV rays can also damage your eyes and cause cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. Wear protective eyewear like sunglasses with UV protection to keep your eyes healthy.

21. Sunbathing Topless

Topless sunbathing can expose your breasts to harmful UV rays, which can cause skin damage, premature ageing, or even skin cancer. Avoid sunbathing topless and wear a bikini top or a rashguard instead.

Nail Mistakes

22. Not Removing Nail Polish

Remove your nail polish before going to the beach. Nail polish can react with the sun and cause discoloration or damage to your nails.

23. Not Using a Top Coat

Use a good quality, clear top coat on your nails to protect them from sun, saltwater, and sand.

24. Overexposing Nails to Sun

Excessive sun exposure can cause your nails to become brittle, yellow, or discolored. Wear gloves or keep your hands in the shade to protect your nails from the sun.

Clothing Mistakes

25. Wearing Tight Clothes

Tight clothes can make you uncomfortable, and they can also lead to rashes, chafing, or skin irritation in heat. Opt for loose-fitting clothes made of breathable materials like cotton, linen, or rayon.

26. Not Covering Up

Cover up with an oversized shirt, a tunic, or a beach cover-up to protect your skin from the sun and sand. This will also help prevent sand from getting stuck between your clothes and skin.

27. Wearing Dark Clothes

Dark clothes absorb more heat than light clothes, making you feel hotter on the beach. Opt for light-colored clothes that reflect sunlight and keep you cool.

28. Not Wearing Hygienic Underwear

Wearing hygienic underwear is important on the beach, especially if you’re sharing public showers or bathrooms. Choose breathable, cotton underwear that will absorb moisture and prevent bacterial infections.

General Mistakes

29. Not Bringing Enough Water

Dehydration can be dangerous on the beach, especially if you have children or elders with you. Bring enough water and a cooler box to keep it chilled throughout the day.

30. Not Cleaning Up After Yourself

Leaving trash on the beach is not only disrespectful to others, but it can also harm marine life. Bring trash bags with you and clean up after yourself before leaving the beach.

Avoid these beauty mistakes on the beach to keep yourself glowing and healthy. Follow these tips to have a safe and enjoyable time in the sun.