Categories: DIY Skin Tips

Summertime: Vacation packing Essentials

Summer is in full swing, and if you’re like me you’ve already been day dreaming about waking up in some place that’s not New York City. Whether it’s the regal Hamptons or a secluded bungalow in the woods, you can’t wait to get there.

While you are imagining yourself somewhere else, you’re probably not thinking too much about what you’re packing until the night before. And while you can bet your bottom dollar you’re not going to forget your bathing suit or your first opportunity to break out the open toe shoes, you’re probably not thinking too much about what’s in your toiletry bag.

That’s why I’m here, to remind and suggest a few light weight supplies that will ensure a weekend of enjoyment without limitations while protecting your glow. Who said you can’t have it all? I say you can! Here’s how:

Start the weekend with a cocktail.

A skin care cocktail. Make sure your toiletry bag has all the right ingredients. Sunscreen for seaside or pool protection is the most important. Preferably one with Octinoxate and Zinc Oxide. This ensures dual protection. Apply every 2 hours and don’t forget to flip your body every 30 minutes so you don’t end up over cooked. For our fair skinned friends add a vitamin C serum for an extra boost of protection.

Add to your bag of goodies a creamy facial cleanser and a light moisturizer. The creamy cleanser will make it easier to remove make-up after a night out. And the moisturizer is a key ingredient to keeping your skin hydrated after time in the sun, drinks with friends and physical exercise. All of which rob your skin of much needed hydration.

Directions: Cleanse with a creamy cleanser, apply a light moisturizer, a generous portion of sunscreen, and then add a pinch Vitamin C serum. Shake your booty vigorously and enjoy!

Make a fashion statement.

Break out those sun glasses because the sun’s rays really start kick’in after the June equinox. Not only do shades protect your eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration, but the bright sun makes you squint your eyes which can lead to wrinkles and dreaded crow’s feet. The great thing about sunglasses is that they are a statement of your uniqueness and style. So, kill two birds with one stone and don those dope oversized specs and be proud to be you!

And while you’re at it, dig deep in your closet, behind the vacuum cleaner and vacuum sealed winter clothes- you’ll find that old hat box. Hats are all the rage. Another tool in today’s arsenal of fashion independence. Wide brimmed, floppy or just a plain old college cap will do the trick. Simultaneously protecting your investment in everlasting youth and exerting your fashion sense.

Avoid the hang over.

Let’s be honest, there will be libation. I mean after all its summer and no one should deny themselves a beverage, or 10. But, take a few simple precautions to reduce the effects of a bad hang over. Drink at least one glass of water before you go to bed and apply moisturizer to your face and neck. And to avoid dark circles and puffy eyes, apply a small amount of eye cream under your eyes with short tapping motions. This will help your skin absorb the product and stimulate blood flow. If these tips fail to prevent the effects of over imbibing, then all you gotta do is grab those shades to cover up the problem.

Return and repair.

A long weekend away is fun and might leave you and your skin needing some recuperation. Not to worry, your skin care expert is ready to erase the damage when you return. I recommend scheduling an appointment for a facial or peel before you leave town. Try to schedule it right when you get back, but if that isn’t convenient, just book something in the week that you return.
Trust me it will be the thing you look forward to when you get back. Cause let’s face it- you’re not looking forward to returning to work.