Every product in this post is something I personally have tried and would buy again.
First up, sunscreen for summer sun safety fun!
- Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray, Water-Resistant and Oil-Free, Broad Spectrum SPF 70+
- This is good for not just kids but adults too, and it goes on very quickly!
- Banana Boat Kids Sport Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Stick with SPF 50
- This is great for kids' faces, and it doesn't run into their eyes.
- Banana Boat Hair & Scalp Defense Reef Friendly Sunscreen Spray, Broad Spectrum SPF 30
- If you've ever gotten a sunburn in the part of your hair, you know why I'm recommending a spray sunscreen specially formulated for hair.
- The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow-Protect Lotion SPF 30
- This is what I use on my own face for daily wear, and I like the extra hit of Vitamin C.
Sunscreen aside, what else is important for summer skin? I'd say moisturizing properly is important.
- Too Cool for School Egg Mellow Cream
- I've been using this moisturizer for years. What I like most about it are that it doesn't break me out, and that the packaging is very convenient and hygienic (no tub to dip one's finger in).
- Sheamoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Body Lotion
- This is a relatively new product for me, but if you're looking for an affordable all-over moisturizer that smells nice, try this hibiscus-scented one.
- Pre de Provence Artisanal French Soap Bar Enriched with Shea Butter, Starflower
- Personally, I love this bar soap, but what's important is to find a soap that won't dry you out.
- Panama Jack Burn Relief Gel - After Sun Topical Analgesic, Cools & Soothes Sunburns, Insect Bites, Cuts & Scrapes, Contains Aloe and Menthol
- I found this product on a vacation and the more fair-skinned members of my family can attest that it helps if despite your best efforts you've gotten a shoulder or neck sunburn.
Here are some products my children use throughout the year, but especially during the summer.
- It's a 10 Haircare Miracle Leave-In product
- I use this on my own hair, but also on my long-haired daughter and my wavy-haired son. It works well and has a pleasant scent.
- Bed Head Curls in Check 1875 Watt Diffuser Hair Dryer
- It seems like summer is one long cycling transition from dry children to wet children, whether it be from a sprinkler, the pool, or a water gun. I find this hair dryer to be reliable and affordable, and use it myself too.
- Kids UPF50+ Safari Sun Hat Breathable Bucket Hat
- A brimmed hat is a wise choice for anyone, young or old. This hat fits my three-year-old daughter, but she'll need a larger one next year.
- Crocs Kids' Classic Clog Slip On Shoes for Boys and Girls
- Whether we're at the beach, the pool, the splash park, or just walking the dog, these amphibious shoes are great.
And here are some products I use on my own hair during the summer in order to combat the humidity and add moisture. In addition to the items that follow, I'd also recommend a wide-toothed comb for detangling, and some gentle hair ties.
- Foxy Curls by TIGI Bed Head Screw It Curl Hydrating Gel
- I wish the packaging were better - it can and will leak. I can add a dab of this to my hair after a shower and it will be more behaved.
- Spa Life Shea and Avocado Nourishing Hair Mask
- I use this mask in the winter too, but find that chlorine and saltwater are really punishing to hair and this helps to mitigate their deleterious effects. I also like using olive oil hair masks.
- L'Oreal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty
- I use this hair putty to tame flyaway hairs. I have heard that you can use clear mascara for the same purpose but haven't tried yet.
- Conair Color Match Bobby Pins, Brown
- Using a few bobby pins to effortlessly pin up an asymmetric hair style is a quick way to add a bit of visual interest and height to your hair.
All of the above being said, do what works for you, your family, and your budget.
