How to Apply Sunscreen So You Actually Get Full Coverage
Samantha Wennerstrom lives in Santa Barbara with her husband, Todd, and her daughter, Elin. Starting out with a career in publishing, Samantha created Could I Have That? as a creative outlet to house all the things she was coveting and loving. What started out as a hobby in 2009 has since organically grown into a business featured on the covers of The Wall Street Journal, C Magazine, Who What Wear, Lucky Magazine, The Zoe Report, Santa Barbara Magazine, and more. Could I Have That? is a destination for all who love upping the ante in their everyday lives.
Read her top three tips for sun protection below to incorporate into your own skincare routine for a healthy summer glow.
With a sun-filled weekend ahead of us, we’re all probably itching to get to Friday. I know I am. With the excitement of parties or travel, it’s easy to forget the importance of being prepared for the sun. And no one wants to show up on Tuesday with an awkward burn, or skin that resembles a Louis Vuitton handbag 20 years from now. While I can get a few shades darker, I’m by no means someone who can tan well, and every year I’m reminded of that.
In my head, I’d like to be a bronzed Charlize Theron, so I notoriously revert to the occasional approach of “eh, I’ll just sit in the shade for a bit, and ditch the sunscreen,” which doesn’t bode well. So I try to proactively go through the following routine even before leaving my bathroom. So before you pack those bags or open that bottle of rosé, make sure you’re prepared for some fun in the sun with these three tips.
Apply Sunscreen in the Nude
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Could I Have That?
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve put my sunscreen on at the beach, and it’s a total disaster. One splotchy red patch here and there, and not to mention it’s annoying when it gets on your clothes or hair. Plan ahead, and apply it everywhere like you would with lotion after a shower. This also allows some time to let it soak in (versus getting wiped off or washed off), and it gives you protection before even walking out the door. It’s so easy; just do it.
Invest In the Good Stuff
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Could I Have That?
If you like your sunscreen, you’re more likely to actually use it. I’ve tried so many formulas, and I’ve finally found some products I really love—keep scrolling to see my essentials. But don’t forget to bring them all with you to reapply after a few hours and after swimming.
Use Secondary Protection
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Could I Have That?
I have tons of hats, and I still sometimes forget to grab one before leaving the house. So now I keep one in the car. My shoulders are the first place I start getting red, so I always bring something I can throw on over my swimsuit. If you’re planning on spending a solid day at the beach, seriously think about investing in a good umbrella, as you’ll want a little break from all that vitamin D, trust me.
Did we leave out any of your go-to sun protection tips? Share them with us below.