Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing Guide: Skincare, Sun Protection, and More!
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During my recent trip to Valencia, I made sure to pack meticulously, especially when it came to sun protection as I understand the importance of shielding our skin from the intense Spanish sun. So, if you're curious about what I pack for a beach vacation, let's dive in.
I'm Caolan, your friendly neighborhood skincare expert, and I've got all the tips to help you care for your skin effectively. First up, let's talk about sunscreen. When my friends saw the array of sunscreens I packed, they couldn't help but chuckle. But I was determined to be prepared.
I didn't just throw in random bottles of sunscreen; oh no, I did the math. Typically, a person needs about one ounce of sunscreen for full-body coverage, to be reapplied every couple of hours when under the sun. So, for the both of us, that meant two ounces each per day. Considering our six-day stay in Valencia, that totaled to 24 ounces of sunscreen.
Now, you might wonder why so much? Well, besides the fact that I didn't always need full-body application due to wearing protective clothing, I also wanted to ensure we had enough for any outdoor activities. Plus, with concerns about sunscreen impacting reefs, I had to be selective.
The Sunscreen Strategy: Reef-Safe Protection
Some countries have banned certain UV filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate, so I avoided those ingredients altogether. Instead, I opted for mineral sunscreens, primarily containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are considered reef-safe. For days when we planned on hiking, I included a couple of sunscreens with organic filters, but still adhered to these regulations. In addition to reef safety, I also prioritized sunscreens that were gentle around the eyes, especially since we'd be sweating and swimming. And of course, I made sure they offered at least 80 minutes of water resistance.
Sunscreen Selections: From Everyday Wear to High SPF Days
Typically, I shy away from daily sunscreens boasting high water resistance due to their sticky and heavy feel. However, for my trip to the beach this year, I decided to make an exception. Let's delve into the specific sunscreens I packed. First off, there's Paula's Choice Super Light Daily Wrinkle Defense with broad spectrum SPF 30. This non-water resistant mineral sunscreen relies solely on zinc as its UV filter. Despite being lightly tinted, it didn't leave a noticeable white cast once it settled on my skin. It felt remarkably lightweight upon application, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear, even after returning from my trip.
Next in line is Sun Better Advanced Mineral Protection SPF 70, which offers water resistance for up to 80 minutes. This untinted sunscreen is my go-to for prolonged UV exposure days, although its price tag does give me pause for thought. Its thick lotion-like consistency initially feels a bit greasy, but it does blend in nicely. While it doesn't provide a completely matte finish, it also doesn't leave my skin feeling overly oily, unlike some other high SPF sunscreens. Those with deeper skin tones may notice a slight cast, although a tinted version is available. Despite its cost, I feel incredibly protected whenever I use this sunscreen during beach vacations.
Then there's La Roche Posay Anthelios Melt in Milk Sunscreen SPF 100, which might seem excessive in SPF rating, but it offers added reassurance for those who might not apply enough sunscreen. This chemical sunscreen blends in effortlessly without any mineral filters, octinoxate, or oxybenzone, making it safe for reef regulations. While it's fantastic for body application, its greasiness makes it less suitable for facial use, as I experienced stinging when it got into my eyes. However, it's perfect for activities away from the ocean, providing clear and thorough coverage regardless of skin tone.
Lastly, I brought along another La Roche Posay sunscreen, their Anthelios Sunscreen Gentle Lotion SPF 50, featuring a purely mineral formula. With titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as its active ingredients, this sunscreen offers broad spectrum protection. I must confess, I included this sunscreen in my packing list to use it up. This sunscreen provides excellent skin protection but has a thick consistency that results in a noticeable white residue, especially on hairy areas. Despite its lack of cosmetic elegance, it proved effective during beach outings, preventing sunburns. While it's not the most aesthetically pleasing sunscreen, it does still offer great protection.
Moving on to the MD Solar Sciences Mineral Creme SPF 50, it offers broad-spectrum protection with a zinc-based formula that's water-resistant for 80 minutes. Opinions on this sunscreen are mixed due to its dimethicone primer-like texture. Some dislike it for feeling too silky, while others appreciate the smoothness. Although it initially leaves a slight white cast, it tends to fade with time. Interestingly, people with deeper skin tones reported minimal issues with the white residue. While personal preferences vary, this sunscreen proved reliable for vacation activities, such as hiking and beach outings, without causing eye irritation or dripping off.
In terms of lip protection, using regular face sunscreen can be a bit gross due to the unpleasant taste and finish. Hence, specific lip products are often a better choice. Among the options brought on the trip were the Brush On Block Lip Oil SPF 32, which provides a glossy finish in the Nude shade, and the Jane Iredale Lip Drink SPF 15 in the color Flirt. While the former offers higher sun protection, the latter has a lemony taste and more convenient application for on-the-go use.
Skincare Simplified: Daytime and Evening Routines
Regarding skincare routines during vacation, simplicity is key to minimize packing and potential skin sensitivity. Stepping away from acids and retinoids, which can increase sun sensitivity, allows the skin to remain calm amidst increased sun exposure and physical exfoliation from beach activities. My morning routine involved splashing water on the face followed by antioxidant application to combat UV damage throughout the day.
Stay Sun-Savvy with Our Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing Guides
I opted for the SkinCeuticals Phloritin CF as my go-to antioxidant. After applying it, my daytime skincare routine consisted solely of sunscreen application, which I reapplied periodically throughout the day. In the evening, my primary focus was on thoroughly removing the layers of sunscreen accumulated on my face and providing nourishment to my skin. To achieve this, I employed a double cleansing method, starting with Bioderma micellar water for its gentle yet effective cleansing action. Following that, I utilized the SkinFix foaming oil cleanser, particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin, to ensure thorough removal of any residual sunscreen and even waterproof mascara. This cleanser not only effectively removed impurities but also left my skin feeling nourished and hydrated, which was essential after a day of outdoor activities and sun exposure.
For moisturizing, I turned to my trusted La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra moisturizer, known for its hydrating and replenishing properties. This holy grail product provided the perfect amount of moisture and comfort to my skin, helping to restore its balance and vitality overnight.
Additionally, I made sure to bring along a backup self-tanner, the Coco and Eve Sunny Honey Travel Kit, to maintain my tan without succumbing to the temptation of sun exposure. This bronzing foam, accompanied by a mitt, impressed me with its easy application, pleasant scent, and long-lasting results, ensuring a natural-looking and streak-free tan throughout my trip.
Makeup Must-Haves: Essentials for Beach Glam
Despite packing a variety of makeup essentials, I found myself only reaching for three items throughout my vacation. One of these essentials was my trusty It Cosmetics CC cream, which provided lightweight coverage and sun protection without feeling heavy or cakey on my skin. This CC cream provides exceptional coverage, and I only need a tiny amount to achieve the desired effect. While it boasts SPF 50, my primary aim is to even out my skin tone, especially combating the redness caused by exposure to the sun. Moreover, it effectively counteracts the white cast from certain mineral sunscreens I've used in the past, which is a bonus.
For my vacation, I opted for Maybelline's lash sensational waterproof mascara, a departure from my usual preferences. However, considering the humid environment and potential ocean exposure, I needed a reliable product to prevent smudging and raccoon eyes. This mascara delivered, keeping my lashes voluminous and long-lasting without any transfer, even with sunscreen around my eyes.
Anastasia Beverly Hills clear brow gel is a staple in my daily routine, vacation or not. It gives my eyebrows the lift and volume they need, holding them in place and enhancing my confidence. Without it, my brows are a bit droopy, so it's a non-negotiable item for me.
About the Author: Caolan
With over a decade of international experience, Caolan's passion lies in simplifying the complex. Now, as the founder of But More Importantly, he applies these talents to the world of cosmetics, aiming to unmask marketing hype and provide readers with the truth about beauty products. His mission: to help you make informed choices and discover what truly enhances your beauty routine.
Sun-Protective Clothing: Stylish Shields Against UV Rays
Moving beyond skincare and makeup, sun protective clothing played a crucial role in my vacation packing. Hats, in particular, were essential, with wide-brim styles providing comprehensive coverage. I invested in options like the Uniqlo hat, offering UV protection and adjustability for windy conditions. Additionally, the Sunday Afternoons gardening visor was a convenient choice, easily packable and comfortable for lounging or walking on the beach. Lastly, my well-loved paddler-style hat, though not the most glamorous, provided superior protection with its moisture-wicking properties and secure fit, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
As mentioned before, having a hat with a chin strap is a lifesaver, especially during windy hikes. Despite the potential for looking a bit goofy, the sense of security it provides is unmatched. For me, it's an essential accessory for outdoor adventures, making it my go-to choice. While bringing three wide-brimmed hats on a beach trip might seem excessive to some, having options is crucial for me.
UPF Clothing Essentials: UPF Ratings and Packing Tips
Moving on, let's talk about UPF clothing. UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, indicates how effectively clothing shields against harmful UV rays. A UPF rating of 50 means only 1/50th of UV light can penetrate the fabric. Various factors influence UPF, including material, color, weave density, and fiber complexity. While regular clothing offers some UV protection, owning UPF-rated items provides peace of mind. It's not necessary to wear sunscreen underneath UPF clothing, which is a relief, considering how messy it can get. Personally, I skip the sunscreen under UPF gear to avoid the sticky hassle.
Now, onto the UPF items I packed. A simple black rash guard from Land's End is perfect for beach days, offering UPF 50 protection. Coolibar's lightweight swim shirt is ideal for sunny sea adventures. Additionally, their beach shawl is a versatile travel companion, serving as a blanket on flights and providing extra sun coverage at the beach. Cabana Life's long-sleeve shirt with mesh underarms offers breathable protection during hikes. I even stumbled upon UPF bottoms at Target, which turned out to be a fantastic find for hiking. These UPF 50 shorts and cropped pants from the All in Motion brand are durable, quick-drying, and perfect for outdoor activities.
So, this is how I prep for a beach vacation. What are your vacation essentials? Share your tips in the comments below. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and join me on Spotify for more travel and skincare adventures. Until next time!
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