Dermatologist-Recommended Tips For Staying Stylish And Sun-Safe On The Beach

It used to be that keeping yourself and your little ones sun-safe and beach-ready didn’t equate to a stylish and fun ensemble. But that’s no longer the case. Brands understand the importance of creating thoughtfully-designed clothing that holds up to dermatologist-standards (and that means offering great sun protection that’s SPF or UPF 50+!).

This August, Dr. Nussbaum is sharing her top tips (and favorite brands) that are derm-approved and look great by the pool or seaside!

Top to bottom, what are your must-haves for what to wear on a sunny day at the beach?

Dr. Marnie Nussbaum: First and foremost, my giant wide-brimmed straw hat which makes me feel both chic and safe. My husband hates carrying it everywhere, as it doesn’t easily fit into any bag but it is a “face” saver for sure! Next, I have my favorite pair of Celine sunglasses which are too big for my face (just the way I like them) and covers the area around the eyes to prevent crow’s feet. I generally have a pretty scarf to tie around my hair or scalp if I want to lose the hat and switch things up. I usually wear a bathing suit, however, I am always covered with some sort of cover-up situation that has UPF. I am LOVING the pieces from Mott50 and Cover Swim. You truly don’t have to sacrifice style for substance anymore.

What’s in your carry-all – any must-haves?

Dr. Marnie Nussbaum: I always have a variety of sunscreens in my giant beach bag (usually duplicates as well so there is enough for my friends who forget). I always have ELTA MD UV Clear 46 for my face as it truly is the only facial sunscreen that I do not break out from. I LOVE Supergoop Mineral Mist with Marigold. It is a non-aerosol zinc-based formula that sprays on easily and can be quickly rubbed in on my kids. I also don’t leave the house without Supergoop Mineral Stick SPF 50 with Avocado Oil which provides an easy application to my kids’ faces, ears, nose and necks. I usually also have COOLA Baby Organic Mineral Stick and La Roche Posay Mineral Sunscreen Lotion. Supergoop Lip Screen SPF 50 is a mainstay as well. Other things in my beach bag include Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer with SPF, Nars Creamy Concealer and Nars lipgloss in Orgasm. A few other things I keep on hand? Multiple hair bands, UNO (the card game for my kids), and multiple magazines along with one fun beach read. I also never leave the house without a bag of cashews or almonds and a bottle of water.

After a day by the pool or beach, I never forget to wash my face before we leave to remove the grime that has accumulated and immediately moisturize. I use a gentle foaming facial cleanser by CeraVe and Skinceuticals Metacell Moisturizer with B3.

You have two small children – anything you’re bringing with you for them?

Dr. Marnie Nussbaum: So many things! #momlife.

• I always bring a hat for each of them (although truth be told, it doesn’t always stay on), a long-sleeved rash guard and their favorite pair of goggles (my son’s pair has race car tires on them and my daughter’s pair has unicorns). I LOVE the company SUNUVA which has amazing kids UPF clothing for the rashguards.
• I always keep my kids’ mineral stick and non-aerosol spray handy for every 2-hour reapplication though I’m careful that we’re under an umbrella when we’re not swimming! If there is a shower where we are, I always rinse them before we leave to remove the grime with something gentle like California Baby and moisturize with Aveeno Eczema Therapy lotion to keep the skin hydrated.
• In the snacks department, it’s all about Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies, Pirates booty snacks and lots of fresh fruit. Of course, I can never forget their water bottles to help them stay hydrated in the sun.

Anything else you want to add?

I am always asked if there is any way to protect the skin where you part your hair if you don’t want to wear a hat. Finally, I have an answer! I just discovered this amazing new product from Supergoop (I swear I don’t get paid by them I just really love their line!) that’s called Poof Part Powder SPF 45 for scalp and hair! I also love recommending ColorScience Mineral Sunscreen Powder SPF 50 for easy reapplication during the day that won’t ruin your makeup. If you buy UPF clothing always look for UPF 50 which blocks 96% of the suns rays! Most importantly, live your life but just use sun safety precautions! Enjoy!