I was asked by Carusele to participate in the #ApplyRepeatProtect campaign, sponsored by Walgreens. Although I have been compensated, all opinions are my own. Some links may be affiliated.
Summertime means funtime!
It’s the time when we break out the cute bikinis, stylish sun glasses, refreshingly chilled fruit salad. What’s not to love about summer? After all, who doesn’t love frisking around in flip flops without the hazards of slipping on the icy sidewalk or getting frostbite on their toes? It’s a carefree time.
That may be mostly true, but after my rather painful 4th of July holiday, (stay tuned to hear all about that debacle,) I am convinced that there is a right way and a wrong way to enjoy the summer sun.
Thank you to Walgreens for inspiring me to tell a story that I wouldn’t otherwise have mentioned, because it’s an important one. In this post, I’m giving you all my best tips on how you can enjoy the sun this summer, and stay safe too!
Let’s talk products!
Everybody knows how important a good sunscreen is when you’re spending time in the sun. Walgreens baby sunscreen has been my go-to ever since I worked at Walgreens during my pool-lounging college years. I’m all about simplicity, (yes, even back then,) and so I want just one product that takes care of all my needs. Walgreens baby sunscreen is non-greasy, lightweight, and the scent isn’t overly strong. Perfect for my sensitive face and my not-so-sensitive legs alike.
I recently picked up a new 3 oz. (88 mL) tube at Walgreens so I never have a bad sun experience again. Walgreens brand sunscreen comes in a variety of sizes, but I enjoy the small tubes because that way I have no excuse for not keeping the stuff on my person at all times. Plus, the small size is “liquids bag approved,” which proves awesome if you’re a carry-on-only summer traveler like I am.
And not to mention, Consumer Reports gives Walgreens Baby Lotion SPF 50 top ratings, so you know you’re getting great quality that won’t let you down!
Walgreens Baby Sunscreen SPF 50, 3 fl.oz. >> Walgreens
Walgreens Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30, 3.4 fl.oz. >> [Walgreens]
(Facial sunscreen for those of you who enjoy something specifically formulated for your face.)
How I get SUN READY
Protecting yourself from the sun is all about the planning! As I learned, “flying by the seat of my pants” doesn’t work out too well.
Apply sunscreen before leaving home // Avoid waiting until you plunk down on your towel at the beach to give yourself that ultra important sunscreen massage. By then, the damaging rays beat you to it. Make it a point to slather on the sunscreen at home before getting dressed. With this method, I never miss a spot, and the sunscreen has a chance to introduce itself to my skin and get the protection party started. Clearly, I like getting creative with this step.
Hydrate // Drink plenty of water before getting out in the sun. You lose so much water through perspiration, and from just being outside, it’s insane. Hydrating yourself beforehand helps your body stay balanced in the heat. It’s important for your health, and it’s also beneficial for your skin. Faced with tough decisions, your skin is the first place your body will suck water from. Who wants dry, crackly skin when they’re wearing shorts? Nobody.
(Stay tuned till the end of this post for a special offer from smartwater!)
Eat the right foods // Being outside in the summer is tough on your body, so treat it right with only the best foods. I love filling up on watermelon, berries, cucumbers, and sweet potatoes when it’s hot out. If your idea of “hydrating” is downing a sugary soft drink, then stop right there! Soft drinks contain sodium, and not to mention a ton of other unhealthy mystery ingredients.
Set a time limit // Yes, I know you want to hang out and soak up the sun all day long. In order to combat the dreaded “Just A Little Longer” syndrome, I recommend giving yourself a specific time to get out of the sun.
Enjoy your time guilt-free knowing that you are prepared and protected. Then, pack up, cherish the memories, and look forward to next time.
Here’s what I pack for sunny adventures
Sunglasses // Sensitive eyes, here. Gotta have sunglasses.
Hat // Giant forehead that attracts the sun like a solar panel. Hat is a must.
Water // I pack a durable bottle of water (not the kind in a flimsy plastic bottle,) and make a point to refill it throughout the day. smartwater bottles make perfect companions for long days in the sun.
Snacks // Watermelon, blueberries, avocados, tangerines, *nom nom.
Sunscreen // And of course, remember your Walgreens baby sunscreen. Because, of course.
You can have fun & be safe too
Okay, so the words “fun” and “safe” don’t always go together. But being safe in the sun is nothing to play around with. Think of it this way, neglecting to take care of yourself while enjoying the sun always has noticeable consequences right now.
You’re burnt. It stings. You’re peeling. Gross. You’re dehydrated. Feeling dizzy. Got a headache.
Avoid all of this super easily by hydrating, applying sunscreen early, and reapplying sunscreen throughout the day. Say it with me: #ApplyRepeatProtect.
Walgreens makes safe sun a breeze, even when they don’t have an awesome deal *hint* going on!
How NOT to enjoy the sun
Let me tell you a little story. Just a few weeks ago, I experienced my first outdoor concert. It was 4th of July Tuesday, I just finished working a long day on Monday, and I was ready to let loose! As soon as said long Monday was over, I hopped into bed excited for the coming events, and neglected to prepare.
Tuesday morning, I sprang out the door wearing my tiniest cutoff shorts and flimsy crop top, with just a small purse on my shoulder. It was exciting; it was the closest I’d ever get to attending Coachella.
In all the excitement, applying sunscreen in the morning wasn’t even on my radar. Strike one. To make matters worse, I completely forgot to pack the sunscreen in my little bag that had nothing but my phone for selfies and a lipstick, for well, selfies, in it. Strike two.
All day I munched salty pretzels, hot dogs, and “smoke meat” (Hawaii thing,) and drank what basically amounts to pure sugar. I also walked, sat, and napped in the sun.
I was parched and burnt to a crisp by the time Natalie Imbruglia performed “Torn” at sunset. But that didn’t stop me from keeping the party going well into the night.
And the next morning, well, I’m sure you know what happens then.
It wasn’t pleasant. Hydrate and wear sunscreen, folks.
What you can do RIGHT NOW!
Right now Walgreens has a special going on where you can save $1.00 when you purchase a bottle of smartwater and Walgreens brand sunscreen together. (With card, expires 8/28/17.)
That takes care of two major components in your sun care arsenal!
Want to see more of what Walgreens has to offer at amazing prices? Check out the in-store coupons page right here >> SHOP THE SALES
Come to the Twitter party on August 17th at 8:00 PM EST where we’ll be sharing our sunscreen loves and stories in a fast paced tweeting frenzy! Use the hashtag #ApplyRepeatProtect to find us.
That’s all for today!
Like this post? Head over and devour this one too >> My Go-To Summer Makeup Look (Easy routine using lightweight products!)
If you find this post interesting, informative, or just plain entertaining, tell me about it in the comments below! And don’t forget, sharing is caring. Share this post!
Till next time. ♥︎
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FTC- I was asked by Carusele to participate in the #ApplyRepeatProtect campaign, sponsored by Walgreens. Although I have been compensated, all opinions are my own. Some links may be affiliated.
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