Never get burned again! This dermatologist’s routine for a day at the beach is your new sun protection bible
The season of sun, sweat, and shorter hemlines is in full effect, which means we’re all slathering on the SPF and booking it for the closest body of water for relief. Sure, parking ourselves indoors next to the AC all summer long would be the safer option, but where’s the fun in that?
And dermatologists agree: Life deserves to be lived! So because we love to get the scoop on routines and peek inside the bags of experts (and we know you’re curious too), who better to tap for a day in the life at the beach than sunny Santa Monica-based, board-certified dermatologist Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH. Follow these sun protection tips and you’ll never get burned again.
Okay, basics first. What are your general rules of thumb to follow for a safe day in the sun?
For a safe day in the sun, apply about an ounce (a shot-glass full amount) of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 to exposed areas of skin before heading out. I prefer mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. If you’re at the beach or a park, reapply every two to three hours, and if you’re in water, reapply every hour.
Don’t forget to protect your eyes with sunglasses with UV-protective lenses—larger sunglasses also shield the vulnerable skin on the eyelids. I also see a lot of sunburns at the part line of the scalp, so either pick up a spray sunscreen for the hair and scalp or wear a hat with a broader, preferably two-inch brim. And bring plenty of water and drinks to stay hydrated!
Pro-tip: Store your sunscreen in a cooler or ice chest if you’re bringing snacks, as applying a cold lotion will feel soothing on a hot day.
It’s a sunny, hot summer day in Santa Monica and you’re hitting the beach—who are you going with, what are you packing, and why?
My favorite people to hit the beach with in Santa Monica are my two teenage children. I usually pack a cooler with water and drinks, snacks like chips or oranges that are easy to share and do not melt and yes, lots of SPF 30 zinc-based sunscreen. I always bring a big blanket and beach umbrella to create some shade and also because sand reflects 80% of UV light.
Let’s talk beach style—what’s your go-to outfit for sun protection?
I wear a broad-brimmed hat, big sunglasses and a swimsuit with UPF, which means that the fabric is tightly-woven or has zinc particles to protect against UV rays. The newer rash guards/sun protective shirts are much more stylish than they were even a few years ago, and I usually wear one over my bathing suit—especially if I’m in the water. I also usually bring aqua socks to protect my feet from hot sand and rocks in the water.
When is the best time to reapply your sunscreen and how often? Does it make any difference if you’re taking a dip in the water?
I reapply every two hours or so and usually right after I take a dip in the water. Even water-resistant sunscreens need to be reapplied every hour if you remain in water or are sweating.
You’ve made it home and are winding down for the evening. Walk us through your post-beach skin routine.
A post-beach skin routine should be gentle and hydrating. I usually take a quick warm or even cool shower to remove any remaining sand as a long, hot shower will contribute to dry skin. I use a scent-free, dye-free liquid cleanser that does not lather, as I find lathering soaps are often too irritating and drying after a day in the sun. Once I towel off, I apply a scent-free, dye-free moisturizer head to toe. I usually do a second pass with a heavier cream or ointment moisturizer for my heels, hands and lips, which are usually the most dehydrated areas after a beach day.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Murad, and are for informational purposes only, even if the advice of physicians and medical practitioners are included. This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be considered specific medical advice.
