Spending time at the beach is one of life's simplest pleasures. Whether you're lounging in the sun, swimming in the ocean, or simply walking along the shoreline, the beach offers a unique combination of relaxation and recreation. However, it's also important to be mindful of your health while enjoying the sunshine. While sunbathing can be an enjoyable and rejuvenating experience, the sun's powerful rays can lead to skin damage, dehydration, and long-term health issues if you’re not careful.
Incorporating wellness practices into your beach routine will help you stay healthy and enjoy the sun without the negative consequences. Sunbathing, swimming, and other beach activities can be revitalizing, but they require the right preparations and protective measures to keep your body and skin safe. From applying the right sunscreen to staying hydrated and caring for your skin afterward, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to make the most of your beach day, while ensuring your well-being.
In addition, we’ll introduce how Sole & Mare’s wellness-infused swimwear can enhance your beach experience, offering continuous skin nourishment and comfort throughout the day.
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays, which, although beneficial in moderation, can also cause sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer if you don’t take the proper precautions. Sunscreen acts as a barrier against these harmful UV rays, and using it consistently is crucial for protecting your skin.
SPF is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn. UVB rays are particularly damaging because they penetrate the skin’s outer layers, causing sunburn and long-term damage to skin cells. There are two main types of UV rays:
UVA rays: These rays penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and even skin cancer.
UVB rays: These rays cause sunburn and are the primary cause of skin cancer.
SPF numbers indicate how much protection the sunscreen provides. For example, SPF 30 blocks around 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. The higher the SPF, the more protection you’ll get, though no sunscreen can offer 100% protection.
Choosing the right SPF depends on your skin type, the amount of sun exposure you expect, and your activities. Here’s how to make the right choice:
SPF 30-50: Most people will be fine with SPF 30. It’s generally enough to provide good protection for everyday beachgoers and people with medium skin tones.
SPF 50+: Those with fair skin, or anyone planning to spend extended hours in the sun, should opt for SPF 50 or higher. Fair-skinned individuals are more susceptible to sunburn and need a higher SPF for additional protection.
Waterproof Sunscreen: While no sunscreen is completely waterproof, choosing a water-resistant sunscreen(often labeled as water-resistant for 80 minutes) ensures longer-lasting protection if you plan on swimming.
Even if you’ve applied sunscreen, it’s important to reapply every two hours, especially if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Sunscreen starts to break down over time, so constant reapplication is necessary to maintain its effectiveness.
A water-resistant sunscreen may last longer but still requires reapplication, particularly after towel-drying or playing sports. Many people forget to reapply after they go in the water, which leads to unprotected skin that becomes vulnerable to damage.
Many beachgoers forget to apply sunscreen to certain areas of their body, including the ears, lips, back of the neck, and the tops of the feet. These areas are often more sensitive to UV exposure, making them more prone to burns. Don’t forget to use lip balm with SPF to protect your lips and sensitive skin around the face and neck.
Key Tip: Even though sunscreen is essential, it’s smart to pair it with swimwear that has built-in sun protection. Sole & Mare's wellness-infused fabrics include Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and built-in sunscreen, so your skin is continually protected and nourished while you enjoy the sun.
Dehydration is a common and often overlooked issue when spending a day at the beach. The heat, humidity, and sun exposure can quickly cause your body to lose fluids, leading to dehydration. This can leave you feeling tired, sluggish, and even increase your risk of heat stroke.
Maintaining proper hydration is key to staying healthy, especially in hot conditions. Start your day by drinking plenty of water before you even reach the beach. It’s easier to stay hydrated if you begin early.
Aim for 8 cups of water per day, and if you’re going to be at the beach for an extended period, make sure to drink more throughout the day.
Carry a reusable water bottle with you to make it easy to drink water regularly. You’ll be more likely to stay hydrated if you have a water bottle in hand at all times.
When your body is dehydrated, it can’t perform at its best. Here are common signs of dehydration:
Dry mouth and thirst.
Fatigue and headaches.
Dark yellow urine.
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
To prevent dehydration, drink water even if you’re not thirsty. When your body starts feeling thirsty, it’s often already a sign that you need more fluids.
While sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages might seem refreshing, they can lead to more dehydration. Alcohol, in particular, acts as a diuretic, which encourages fluid loss. Stick to water, coconut water, or infused waters with lemon, cucumber, or mint for a refreshing, hydrating drink.
Hydration Tip: Carry a stylish water bottle to keep your hydration levels up while being on the go. Plus, it’s a great beach accessory!
Sun exposure can lead to dryness, peeling, and even sunburn. Protecting your skin doesn’t stop with sunscreen; following a good post-sun skincare routine is essential to keep your skin healthy and hydrated after a day in the sun.
After a day under the sun, your skin is likely to be dry, and may feel tight or irritated. Applying a rich moisturizer after sunbathing helps lock in moisture and prevents the skin from feeling parched. Look for products that contain Aloe Vera or Vitamin E, as these ingredients help soothe and repair your skin.
Aloe Vera: Known for its cooling properties, Aloe Vera helps soothe sunburned skin. It can reduce redness and provide relief from irritation.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E works as an antioxidant, helping to repair skin cells damaged by the sun. It also helps to reduce scarring and promote skin healing.
After spending a long time in the sun, take a cool shower to wash off the sand, saltwater, and sweat. This will not only cleanse your skin but also help cool it down, reducing the risk of heat rashes or irritation.
Aloe Vera and Vitamin E are both great for post-sun skincare. Aloe Vera can be used directly as a gel or lotion to treat sunburns. Vitamin E is often found in moisturizers and serums, helping to protect the skin and reduce any damage caused by sun exposure.
While spending time in the sun is enjoyable, it's crucial to avoid excessive exposure to harmful UV rays. The best way to balance sun exposure is to protect your skin by seeking shade when necessary and using sun-protective accessories to shield yourself from the sun.
Taking breaks in the shade is essential for protecting your skin and preventing overheating. Whether it’s under a beach umbrella, a tree, or a beach tent, spending some time away from direct sunlight allows your skin to cool down and recover from exposure. The shade provides a restorative environment for your skin, reducing the risk of sunburn and the premature aging effects of UVA rays.
In addition to finding shade, sun accessories such as sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and light scarves can provide further protection for your face and eyes. These items help block UV rays from directly hitting your skin and eyes.
Sunglasses: A good pair of sunglasses not only makes you look stylish but also protects your eyes from UV rays. The delicate skin around the eyes is particularly vulnerable to sun damage, so make sure to choose UV-blocking sunglasses that offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Wide-Brimmed Hats: Hats with wide brims are perfect for providing shade to your face, neck, and shoulders. A sun hat is a must-have for keeping your skin protected from sun exposure, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors. Opt for hats made from breathable fabrics like cotton or straw for comfort and cooling.
Scarves or Cover-Ups: A light, breathable scarf or beach cover-up can be an easy way to shield your shoulders, chest, and back from the sun. Choose fabrics that offer UV protection and feel comfortable against your skin. Scarves and cover-ups are great for adding an extra layer of sun protection while still allowing you to enjoy the beach atmosphere.
Other Accessories: Don’t forget about the power of lip balms with SPF to protect your lips, and UV-blocking beachwear that can provide additional protection against the sun.
A combination of shade and accessories can make your beach day more comfortable and sun-safe. Set up your beach space with a large beach umbrella, bring a wide-brimmed hat, and wear UV-blocking sunglasses to ensure you're fully protected. These simple additions will help you enjoy your time under the sun without the risks of excessive UV exposure.
Sustainability isn’t just important for the environment; it’s also an excellent way to promote your personal wellness. Choosing eco-friendly swimwear helps minimize your carbon footprint, contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet while also benefiting your skin.
Opt for swimwear made from sustainable fabrics such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, or bamboo fibers. These materials are better for the environment, and they also reduce the amount of plastic waste that contributes to ocean pollution. By choosing eco-friendly swimwear, you're making a choice that aligns with your values and supports sustainable fashion.
Fashion that prioritizes the planet is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Sustainable brands aim to reduce waste, improve production methods, and make products that last longer. By investing in eco-conscious swimwear, you’re not only getting a stylish, comfortable product — you’re also supporting a global movement toward cleaner and more ethical fashion practices.
By incorporating these wellness tips into your beach routine, you can enjoy the sun safely while staying hydrated and protected. From applying sunscreen regularly to following a post-sun skincare routine and choosing eco-friendly fashion, these wellness habits will ensure you have an enjoyable beach day without compromising your health.
Sole & Mare's swimwear is designed to offer luxury and wellness in one. With microsphere-encapsulated Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and built-in sunscreen in our fabrics, our swimwear keeps your skin nourished, hydrated, and protected throughout your beach day. We’re committed to using eco-friendly fabrics, so you can feel good about your fashion choices and their impact on the environment.
Whether you're lounging on the beach or enjoying a swim, choose Sole & Mare for the perfect combination of style, comfort, and wellness. Shop now and elevate your beach experience.