Skin Care Tips for Beach Lovers: How to Protect Your Skin and Look Fabulous All Summer Long

There’s no denying it: beach days are a millennial’s version of paradise. From sunbathing with a good book, to spontaneous dips in the ocean, to Instagramming the perfect sunset, it’s the ultimate escape. But while the beach offers a world of relaxation and fun, it can also take a toll on your skin if you’re not careful.

As much as we love getting our daily dose of vitamin D, protecting your skin from the sun's harsh effects is a must. Luckily, skin care for beach lovers doesn't have to be complicated. With a few essential tips, the right products, and a little sun-smart strategy, you can protect your skin while still soaking up those summer vibes.

Let’s dive into the best skin care tips to keep your skin glowing and healthy all season long—because glowing skin and beach days should always go hand-in-hand!

1. Start with a Hydrating Sunscreen (SPF 50+ is Non-Negotiable)

We get it, sunscreen can sometimes feel like a hassle, but hear us out—it’s the most important step in your beach day skin care routine. The sun’s UV rays are powerful, and prolonged exposure can cause premature aging, dark spots, and even skin cancer.

Why You Need It: Protecting your skin from the sun is the best way to keep it looking youthful and healthy. Think of sunscreen as your skin’s best defense and your secret weapon for glowing skin all summer long.

Tip: Choose a sunscreen with SPF 50+ that’s broad-spectrum and water-resistant. It’s also a bonus if it’s formulated with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid to keep your skin smooth and moisturized.

Recommended: We’re obsessed with Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50—this formula is clear, weightless, and blends into the skin like a dream, leaving no white cast. Another great option is Bondi Sands SPF 50+, an Aussie brand known for its nourishing, non-greasy sunscreens that are perfect for beach lovers.

2. Reapply Sunscreen Like a Pro (Every 2 Hours)

The key to sun protection isn’t just applying sunscreen once at the beginning of the day—it’s about reapplying regularly. After swimming, sweating, or towel drying, you’ll want to make sure your sunscreen stays intact to maintain that protective barrier.

Why You Need It: Reapplying ensures that you maintain continuous protection against UV damage, especially after sun exposure or water activities.

Tip: Set a timer on your phone to remind you every two hours to reapply sunscreen. Or, if you’re on the go and need something quick and easy, try a sunscreen mist or a SPF setting spray for a super-easy reapplication throughout the day.

Recommended: La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50+ offers a spray sunscreen that’s fast, lightweight, and ideal for when you’re reapplying mid-beach day without a mirror.

3. Keep Your Skin Hydrated with Aloe Vera & Hyaluronic Acid

After a long day in the sun and saltwater, your skin can easily get dehydrated, leaving it feeling dry, tight, and irritated. The best way to counteract this? Hydration—lots of it!

Why You Need It: Sunburn and sun exposure can dehydrate the skin, so replenishing moisture is crucial. Products with aloe vera and hyaluronic acid are excellent at restoring hydration, soothing irritation, and promoting skin recovery.

Tip: Look for an after-sun moisturizer that includes aloe vera, which will help calm and cool your skin, or a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid to restore moisture deep into the skin.

Recommended: After a day in the sun, Aloe Vera Gel by Dr. Organic is a must-have. It’s soothing, hydrating, and perfect for calming sun-exposed skin. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is another favorite, with its lightweight, ultra-hydrating formula that’s perfect for giving your skin the moisture it needs without feeling heavy.

4. Gentle Exfoliation (But Not Too Much)

Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores, but you’ll want to be careful not to overdo it. Your skin is already exposed to a lot of harsh elements at the beach—sand, saltwater, and sun—so it's important to keep exfoliation gentle.

Why You Need It: Exfoliating helps to brighten up your complexion and maintain a smooth, soft surface, but doing it too often can irritate the skin, especially after sun exposure.

Tip: Opt for a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week to remove dead skin, not something too abrasive. Look for a product with mild acids like lactic acid or gentle scrubs.

Recommended: Pixi Glow Tonic with glycolic acid is a perfect option for a gentle, radiance-boosting exfoliation. For something physical yet gentle, try Frank Body Original Coffee Scrub, which combines natural exfoliants like coffee grounds with nourishing oils for smoother, hydrated skin.

5. Don't Forget Your Lips—They Need SPF Too!

When you’re protecting your skin, don’t forget about your lips. Your lips are delicate and just as prone to sunburn as the rest of your skin.

Why You Need It: The skin on your lips is thinner than the rest of your body, which means it's more susceptible to sunburn. Using lip balm with SPF helps prevent cracked, chapped lips and sun damage.

Tip: Always keep a lip balm with SPF in your bag or beach pouch and apply it throughout the day. It’s an easy way to protect your lips without even thinking about it.

Recommended: Hurraw! Lip Balm SPF 15 is a vegan and cruelty-free option that offers broad-spectrum sun protection while keeping your lips soft and nourished. Another favorite is Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm, which hydrates with coconut oil and shea butter while protecting from the sun.

6. Wear a Hat to Protect Your Face and Scalp

While you’re busy applying sunscreen, don’t forget about your face and scalp! The sun can be harsh on delicate areas like your face, ears, and scalp, which are often overlooked when we think about sun protection.

Why You Need It: A wide-brimmed hat not only adds a chic touch to your beach look but also provides extra shade and protection for your face, neck, and scalp. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your hair from getting dried out by the saltwater.

Tip: Go for a lightweight, breathable hat with a wide brim to shield your face and neck from the sun's rays.

Recommended: Lack of Color offers beautiful wide-brimmed hats that are both stylish and practical for all-day sun protection. Their hats are made with breathable materials and come in a range of chic designs to suit any beach outfit.

7. Cleanse Your Skin After Sun Exposure

After a long day of beach fun, it's important to wash away all the salt, sunscreen, and any sand that may have found its way onto your skin. But remember, cleansing should be gentle—not harsh.

Why You Need It: A good cleanse ensures you’re not leaving any dirt or sunscreen residue on your skin, which can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, or irritation.

Tip: Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils but will effectively remove the day's build-up.

Recommended: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser is great for sensitive skin and removes dirt and oils without drying out the skin. If you prefer something with a bit more nourishment, try CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, which is packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to keep your skin moisturized while cleansing.

8. Eat Skin-Loving Foods to Boost Your Glow

What you put inside your body is just as important as what you put on your skin. Skin-loving foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins can help keep your complexion radiant, even after a day in the sun.

Why You Need It: Foods rich in vitamins C and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can help boost your skin’s natural defenses and keep it looking healthy and glowing.

Tip: Add more avocado, berries, salmon, and green leafy vegetables to your diet for a natural skin boost.

9. Wear Swimwear with Built-In Sun Protection: SPF 50+ and UV Protection by Georgi Swimms

We know that sun protection is essential for keeping your skin safe during your beach days, and at Georgi Swimms, we take this seriously. Our swimwear collection isn’t just stylish and comfortable—it’s also designed to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Why You Need It: Our swimwear is crafted with SPF 50+ fabric, offering built-in protection from the sun’s damaging UVA and UVB rays. This means you can confidently enjoy the beach, knowing you’re protected while looking fabulous. No need to worry about missed spots or reapplying sunscreen every time you step out of the water—our swimwear has you covered.

Tip: Combine our UV-protective swimwear with your regular sunscreen routine for full protection. It's the perfect way to keep your skin safe while you swim, surf, or soak up the sun.

Recommended: Explore our range of stylish one-pieces, bikinis, and cover-ups that feature SPF 50+ protection. Whether you're lounging by the shore or catching some waves, you can trust Georgi Swimms to help keep your skin protected while you look and feel your best.

Healthy Skin, Happy Beach Days

At the end of the day, your skin is your best accessory, and taking the time to protect it will ensure you can enjoy all your beach days to the fullest without worrying about sun damage. With the right sunscreen, hydration, and skin care routine, you can keep your skin glowing and fresh all season long.

So go ahead—soak up the sun, jump in the waves, and embrace your inner beach lover. Your skin will thank you later.