There’s something undeniably special about living in Wilmington, North Carolina—the easy access to Wrightsville Beach. It’s a go-to destination for sun-soaked afternoons, refreshing swims, and the simple joy of being by the ocean. But while we all love the beach, it’s essential to keep your skin in check, especially during the peak summer months when the sun is at its strongest. Here are some skin tips to help you enjoy your beach day while keeping your skin protected.
1. Wear SPF and Reapply Often
The golden rule of skin tips for a day at the beach? Don’t forget your SPF. Think of it as your skin’s best friend, offering that much-needed shield from the sun’s rays. Opt for a broad-spectrum formula to cover all bases—UVA and UVB protection in one. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, as it effectively blocks about 97% of the sun's UVB rays.
Application Tips:
- Be Generous: Most of us tend to skimp on sunscreen. A good rule of thumb is about a shot glass worth to cover your whole body. Remember to hit those often-overlooked spots like your ears, neck, and feet.
- Reapply Regularly: Sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done deal. Make it a habit to top up every couple of hours, especially after a swim or a quick towel-off.
- Pick the Right Sunscreen: For a day at Wrightsville Beach, a water-resistant option is your best bet. It’s designed to stay put, even after a dip in the ocean.
By making sunscreen a key part of your beach routine, you’re taking a significant step toward preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, including premature aging and skin cancer.
2. Wear a Hat for Added Protection
Sunscreen is fantastic, but adding a physical barrier like a wide-brimmed hat can give you extra protection, particularly for your face, neck, and ears—areas that are often exposed to the sun. A hat with a brim of at least three inches can reduce the amount of UV radiation reaching your skin by about 50% and is one of the most important skin tips we recommend.
3. UPF Clothing is a Plus: Cute and Protective
In recent years, UPF clothing has become more popular—and it’s easy to see why. It’s designed with fabrics that have built-in UV protection, offering an extra layer of defense against the sun’s harmful rays.
Brands We Love:
If you’re looking for chic rashguard swimsuits, we’ve found some great options from Revolve, Lain Snow, and Billabong. They’re not just stylish but also super functional for keeping your skin protected throughout the day.
Why UPF Clothing Works:
- Long-Lasting Protection: Unlike sunscreen, UPF clothing doesn’t wash off, so you can count on it for all-day protection.
- Stay Cool and Comfortable: Many of these garments are made from lightweight, breathable fabrics that keep you cool, even when the sun is out.
Adding UPF clothing to your beach wardrobe is a smart move and one of the best skin tips, especially for those long summer days spent by the water.
4. Stay in the Shade Whenever Possible
While it’s tempting to bask in the sun all day, another of the most important skin tips you should be doing is taking breaks in the shade. Whether you’re lounging under a beach umbrella or setting up a pop-up tent, reducing direct sun exposure can significantly lower your risk of sunburn.It’s a great way to give your skin a breather and cool down, especially during the midday hours when the sun is at its strongest.
A Cool Cabana is Our Go-To:
For a chic and practical way to stay shaded, we love using a Cool Cabana. It’s easy to set up and offers plenty of space to relax out of direct sunlight—perfect for those extended beach days.
5. Beach Prep Done Right
At Self Skin Studio, we’re all about keeping things real when it comes to skincare. Our founder, Trish Holmes, is a beach lover through and through, and she’s perfected her routine to ensure she and her family enjoy their time in the sun safely and comfortably. Whether it’s choosing the right products or making sure everyone is protected, Trish’s approach is all about balance—enjoying the beach while keeping skin health in focus. Check out the video below where Trish walks you through her go-to beach day routine. From skincare must-haves to skin tips on keeping the kids safe in the sun, it’s your inside scoop on how to do beach days the right way.
Savor your Beach Day, Protect Your Skin With These Skin Tips
Wrightsville Beach is one of the many perks of living in Wilmington—offering endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. But as much as we all love the sun, it’s crucial to stay mindful of your skin’s needs. By following these simple skin tips—using SPF, adding some shade, choosing the right clothing, and prepping like a pro—you can enjoy everything the beach has to offer while keeping your skin protected.
So, pack your bag with all the essentials, throw on your favorite sunhat, and head to the beach with confidence. You’re fully equipped to enjoy the sun safely and stylishly with these skin tips. Here’s to a summer full of sun, sand, and skin that’s ready for anything!