Going to the beach is a simple matter for some people. Simply pack a towel, a swimsuit, and a pair of sandals, and they're off. For the rest of us, however, the process is a bit more involved. If you want to keep looking and feeling your best on your next beach trip, you'll need to know what to pack. Sure, you may not be going to a formal ballroom, but you'll still need these 5 essential beauty products to look and feel your best on the sand.

1. Strong Sunblock

Sunburn is no joke. Ultraviolet rays are stronger and more dangerous than ever before on many beaches, and even an overcast day can end with burned skin for those who aren't careful. Pack a sunblock with SPF 50 at least, and make sure to apply a new coat every so often to keep your beautiful skin from getting singed. Sunburn isn't just uncomfortable and unattractive, it can lead to skin cancer in more serious cases.

2. Waterproof Mascara


If the idea of leaving the house without putting on your face is unthinkable, be sure to pack waterproof mascara in your beach bag next time you head to the coast. Most regular makeup applications will run and smear when you start to sweat or go swimming in the ocean, but a good waterproof mascara will stay with you through thick and thin. Keep looking your best all day long without the annoyance of runny makeup and the hassle of multiple applications. Set it and forget it with a good waterproof mascara on hand.

3. Protective Lip Balm

It's not just your legs and back that need a protective coating to avoid being burned by the sun. Your soft, kissable
lips can get charred more easily than any other part of your body, so be sure to protect them. Protective lip balm is an essential beauty product in any lady's beach bag. The skin on your lips is more sensitive and fragile than anywhere else on your face or body, so don't neglect it or you'll quickly learn an unforgettable lesson about beach beauty.

4. Soothing Moisturizer

After a long day on the beach, your skin is going to be tired. Lots of sun exposure, combined with the drying effect of salt water, can leave you feeling like you're halfway to tanned leather. Bring along a soothing moisturizer to keep your skin healthy after the sun goes down. Aloe gels are popular choices for moisturizing naturally. Healthy skin needs someone to care for it, so be sure not to forget your moisturizer.

5. Hair Care

The beach is not always kind to hair. Many women are content to tie off a pony tail and head out the door, but what happens when you retire for the night? Your hair can get dried out, damaged, and frizzy after an afternoon on the sand. Bring your favorite nourishing shampoos and conditioners, as well as your CHI Hair Straightener if your mane gets ravaged by humidity. Staying comfortable and beautiful on the beach may not be easy, but it doesn't have to be difficult when you have these essential beauty products.