Ever wondered what a Beauty Editor has in their beach bag? We asked Woman & Home’s phenomenal Beauty Editor, Jade Smith, what her beach staples are. As someone who grew up in the sun and surf, Jade is well aware what a knock our hair and skin can take while we’re having fun. That’s why when her and the family head down to the seaside she makes sure she is prepped.
I have learned over the years that too much sun exposure can do damage. So these days I’m all about enjoying the great outdoors, but with the right sun-savvy goodies packed in my beach bag.
Here are Jade’s Beauty Editor beach staples for a beautiful summer:
Sunscreen
I feel like a broken record when it comes to sunscreen, but really folks, you have to put it on! It’s the most important beach staple. I go for something reef friendly to protect our fishy friends – usually a mineral sunscreen. I have to choose something gentle for the kids too. Some sunscreens can give them a rash which shows up on their sensitive cheeks. The Back 2 Nature Face & Body Mineral Sun Shield is a good option for sensitive skin.
Back 2 Nature Face & Body Mineral Sun Shield.
Hair Protection
Hair is overlooked when it comes to beach day protection. It can take a real beating. The combination of salt and sun can wreck havoc on your colour or your highlights, leading to faded, dull tresses. I recommend spritzing hair with a protection spray before you leave the house and try rinse salt water out after your swims. If you really want to make your hair happy, coat it in a leave-in conditioner.
Keep hair happy with Lee Staffords Heat Protect Spray from the delicious Coco Loco range.
Hat
To get proper sun protection, you need to get shade. Take your sun care game up a notch by wearing a hat. I love a light-weight straw beach hat that allows air to flow, keeping the head cool while still protecting your face and scalp.
Fedora’s are always stylish. This one by Emthunzini Sun Hats is CANSA endorsed with certified UV protection.
For more hat ideas, browse our MUST-HAVE HATS TO WEAR THIS SUMMER.
Beach Tent
I never thought an impulse-buy would become a beach staple! This handy guy has shielded us from the sun and wind on so many beach days. It’s great to do a quick private change on the beach and our youngest has even enjoyed a few naps inside.
Try this candy striped Pop Up Beach Tent from Cotton On.
Sunglasses
This is my non-negotiable beach staple! I would literally turn around, go home and fetch my sunnies if I forgot to take a pair to the beach – my eyes are that sensitive.
You cant go wrong with a pair of RayBans!
Towel
A good quality towel is a worthy investment. I love the County Road Beach Towels, I even have one my daughter uses which has been passed down from my son. These can be on the pricey side, but remember that you are paying for a thicker fabric – the key to having an item last longer. Plus it feels really luxurious kicking back on a cushy towel, feeling the sun kiss your skin!
The Country Road Australian Cotton Beau Beach Towel in Papaya.
