10 Beach Bag Beauty Must-Haves

by Nurain Alicharan

Published Jun 10, 2024

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It’s officially beach season! The sun is shining, the waves are calling, and it’s finally time for some much-needed vitamin D. For your upcoming beach getaway, pool day, or just some fun in the sun, stock your beach bag with these beauty essentials.

Pre/Mid-Sun Beauty Must-Haves

Sunscreen (of course!)

We had to start with the most obvious. Sunscreen is an absolute must every day, but especially when you’re planning on being in the sun for an extended period of time. Prevent damage, protect your skin, and avoid sun burns by applying a generous amount of sunscreen (and reapply as needed). Sunscreen, soak, repeat.

For your face, it’s always best to use a sunscreen that’s specially formulated for facial skin, as body sunscreens can be too oily.

Pro tip: keep your sunscreen in the shade (or even in your cooler) to prevent the active ingredients from degrading in the heat.

Beautylish recommends:

Good Molecules Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 and Bask Lotion SPF 50 for normal to dry skin
Peter Thomas Roth Max Matte Shine Control Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45 for oily skin
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 for deeper skin tones

Hair Heat Protectant

Sure, sunscreen’s a no-brainer, but don’t forget to protect your hair from heat damage, too. A heat protectant can strengthen, condition, and prep your hair for all-day sun exposure. That wonderful beachy volume and texture doesn’t have to come with damage.

Beautylish recommends:

Multi-Purpose Balm

Yep, we’re covering all your bases. Not only will a multi-purpose balm keep your lips hydrated and nourished, it will also come in handy in case of minor sunburns, rashes, chafing, or insect bites, making it a beach bag must.

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Skin Tints

If you’re looking for a not-completely-bare-but-still-natural look, a skin tint can provide the perfect coverage without a full face of makeup. Skin tints even out skin tone, smooth lines and pores, and target any areas with imperfections such as redness, hyper-pigmentation, or scarring. The ideal choice will feature broad-spectrum SPF to protect skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Plus, these come in a range of shades, so you’re sure to find the perfect match.

Beautylish recommends:

Chantecaille Just Skin Tinted Moisturizer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15

Waterproof Mascara

For a no-makeup look, a little waterproof mascara never hurts. Add smudge-free volume and length to your lashes with a lasting formula. No more worry about getting in the water or sweating. Bye bye, raccoon eyes!

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Bobby Pins

Whether lounging or swimming, the last thing you need is hair in your face. Be sure to keep extra bobby pins and clips handy just in case.

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Makeup Remover Wipes

It’s nearly impossible to cleanse at the beach, whether it’s your hands or your face. Stash makeup remover wipes in your bag to give your skin a quick swipe before reapplying your sunscreen. Wipes will remove any sand or sweat to prevent breakouts, and keep skin looking and feeling fresh.

Beautylish recommends:

Face Mist

Whether beachside or poolside, a facial mist is the perfect way to cool down during a hot day in the sun. Instantly refresh and hydrate your skin, maintain your skin’s natural PH level, and soothe any irritation or redness. Getting a dewy, glowing look has never been easier.

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Post-Sun Essentials

After-Sun Moisturizer

Another crucial skincare step: soothe and hydrate your sun-kissed skin. The easiest way to let your skin recover from hours of heat and sunshine is with calming skincare products and tools. Ultra-nourishing formulas featuring gentle ingredients (like botanical extracts) can help hydrate and detoxify the skin after sun exposure, while an ice roller can work to reduce puffiness and inflammation.

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Post-Sun Hair Conditioner

Add moisture back to your strands after a full day of sun exposure. It’s never been easier to reverse the effects of sunlight or chlorine—think of it like aloe for your hair. A few sprays, and you’re ready for post-beach drinks, dinner, dancing, and whatever else the night brings.

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