Pool Side Essentials

These are my some of my pool side essentials. Since I'm a pale girl, I always have to have some sort of cover-up to give my skin a break from the blazing sun. Sometimes a oversized t-shirt will do and honestly that is what I normally use if my nieces are joining me.  Luckily our community pool also has umbrellas, taking a 15 minute break under one is also a good way to cool down and give your skin a break.  Remember, be kind to your skin and you'll look fabulous when you're older.  Also, I use the highest SPF out there to help lower my risk of becoming a lobster. However, it is inevitable that I will get red somewhere so I always have the Aloe for afterwards. There is nothing better than slathering this on and sitting in front of a fan. Since I am prone to sunburn I don't lay out for more than an hour and I'll take pool breaks every 15 mins or so. Also, in all honesty, I can't stand just laying there baking in the sun.  I have to have a magazine or something to read.  If not, my tolerance is only about 30 minutes ... it's just too boring! To help deepen my tan and/or eliminate some redness I like to use an instant bronzer. I find that mousse/gel/lotion versions work well in comparison to sprays. Also, I use the clear stick sunscreen for my face. Quick tip: rub it on your entire face but make sure to keep it away from your eyes. It never fails ... I rub this stuff on put on my sunglasses get in the pool and bam ... tearing up because of sunscreen in my eyes. I found the best way to keep your face protected is to just reapply occasionally rather than lathering it up to the point it runs into your eyes from water or sweat. Normally, I use the Coppertone Water Babies stick which is also a bit more water resistant and doesn't burn if it gets in your eyes. Sunglasses are a must! I even wear them if I get in the pool. UV is the cause for cataracts with are of course inevitable if you reach a certain age but there is no reason to speed to process along. Also, there is always a need for a big bag to put all your junk in and flip flops. I like these with the ankle straps because it always seems as if my feet are wet when I leave to pool area and when wearing a regular flip flop my feet just slide around in them.   Lastly, and most important stay hydrated!  It's good for your skin and it helps with the heat.  You don't want to get dehydrated.  If you are having pool side cocktails, make sure to drink water as well. You don't want to pass out in the sun you'll wake up sunburned and with your bikini top crooked and one of your boobs out.  It happened to one of my friends ... sad yet funny true story.  

So what are your summer essentials?