I’ve always been partial to a warm, suntanned look, and in my teens, even when my mom insisted that we wear sunblock, I always opted for the darkest tan possible, using any type of suntan oil I could find. But when I started noticing fine lines and sunspots, I made a commitment to start being serious about using sunscreen, cover-ups and hats to protect and preserve my skin.

I also found that sunscreen isn’t just for summer – it’s something that should be included in any beauty routine. My favorite go-to sunblock for everyday use is First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Spectrum SPF 40 because it works great with or without makeup, and adds an extra layer of moisture to my normally dry skin. For my lips, I use Sugar Lip Treatment Sunscreen (you can always find a tube in my bag!). With all this said, I still haven’t given-up my love of a “sun-kissed” tan. Instead, I switched to makeup and self-tanning products like Bareminerals All-Over Face Color in warmth shade, and Laura Mercier Bronzing Gel for an all over body glow.

In the warmer months, when I spend more time outdoors, at the beach, or by the pool (or when I’m on a tropical vacation), I use a broad spectrum sunblock like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 100.  I’ve tried different products, but this one is light-weight, stays on even after being in the water and really works (it’s important to re-apply any sunblock every two hours for best results).When I can, I try to stay in the shade  during peak sun hours (around 10:00a – 2:00p), and am a stickler for wearing a sunhat, sunglasses and some kind of cover-up, be it a shift, lightweight pants, or top.

One of the most important assets we have is our skin and one of the easiest ways to ensure that it stays beautiful, healthy and glowing for years to come is to protect it from the sun.