I’ve spent a good 30 years of my life growing up at the Jersey Shore — long before it was a monument to “poofs,” and ridiculous orange spray tans. My summers were blissfully spent lounging on the beach, cruising the boardwalk at night and eating greasy Mack and Manco’s pizza with my family. But similar to the Jersey Shore cast, as a teenager I was obsessed with keeping up on my “perfect,” summer tan. It wasn’t until I finally became an esthetician 20 years ago that I realized some sun damage cannot be undone. There were too many beach days where I would carelessly sans the SPF to lather up with baby oil and bake in the sun for hours.

Although my passion for the beach has never dwindled, I am much more cautious as to how I expose myself while I’m there. It’s a common myth that one cannot get a tan with SPF on or achieve the same level of desired darkness. SPF however, merely filters out the toxins that can cause skin cancer but in no way prevents someone from getting a tan. Picture your skin as one of the sand sifters we all had as a kid; while the seashells are stuck on the top the sand still could filter through to make the perfect sand castle. While the seashells are the dangerous UV rays, the sun’s natural benefits are still able to penetrate the skin. Skin cancer is no doubt scary and while other cancers attack specific organs, skin cancer can spread anywhere…even your lips. So before you decide to forgo the beach or hide under an umbrella in fear,

I’m here to introduce my “5 Must Have Beach Products,” for this summer. So you can enjoy the sun, while still keeping your skin happy and healthy.

1. JAN MARINI SPF 30 WITH ANTIOXIDANTS

Even if we’re not at the beach, our skin is still at risk. Jan Marini’s SPF 30 is not only lightweight and waterproof, but it can be worn under makeup without giving you that “greasy,” sunblock look.  Regardless if I’m hitting the beach or the pool, I wear this product daily underneath my regular foundation as an extra preventative.

2. LIGHTWEIGHT WRINKLE DEFENSE BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN SPF 30

Daily sun and aging protection with ultra-sheer application and weightless hydration. Powered by transparent zinc oxide and antioxidant-rich bearberry, sea buckthorn, lingonberry, and ferulic acid to defend against harmful UVA/UVB rays, pollution, and blue light emitted from phones and computer screens –helping to prevent fine lines and wrinkles. Invisible, non-greasy finish on all skin tones.

3. UV LIP BALM BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 36

EltaMD UV Lip Balm contains 5% Hydromanil™ for immediate and long-term moisturization. Powerful UV protection and super hydrating power make this Lip Balm the ideal protector for all skin types and lifestyles.

4. HAT PALMIER

ERES has invited Kilometre Paris to curate a unique beachwear line inspired by travel and craftsmanship. Made of straw and cotton, the Palmier hat features colourful embroidery—in the season’s palette—inspired by the tropics. In two materials, it combines elegance and relaxation for a soft sunny look.

5. ALOE ANTIOXIDANT CALMING MIST

A new product, with a patent product called “Uv inCellium,” that helps your skin protect itself while hydrating your skin. Love to have that natural “dewy,” look? This product is perfect on the face and body to give it a light, refreshed look. Wear it over make up to fix it, or spray down when your outside. By far my top product of this season.

Rescue Esthetician,
Connie Henry