Spring is finally here and summer is right around the corner. We begin to dream of how we will spend our summer days, lounging around in the sun while enjoying some much needed freedom from books and schoolwork. We look forward to longer days, warmer weather, lighter clothing, and preparing ourselves for the perfect swimsuit that compliments our figures. However, we need to keep some important things in mind about protecting ourselves from our summer friend, and number one enemy, the sun. Did you know there are numerous sunscreens on the market to cater to every skin type even those prone to acne, rosacea (skin prone to redness), and even a dull complexion? Read on to find your skin type, as well as information that pertains to everyone, regarding the proper sunscreen SPF and how to keep skin protected during daily activity.

The American Academy of Dermatology (www.AAD.org) recommends that everyone should wear broad-spectrum protection, which safeguards against UVA and UVB rays, Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or greater and one that is water resistant. The AAD also advises that you re-apply approximately every two hours or as indicated on the label, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.

Elle.com has listed what they believe to be ideal sunscreens for every face and body. For the face: Target has a new premium skincare system for skin that is sensitive and prone to breakouts, MD Complete Skin Clearing Clear Skin Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 29 priced at $30. This new line of sunscreen was created by a dermatologist with the intention of protecting skin against the sun’s rays while keeping your complexion free of breakouts. Another best face winner is Amarte Ultra Veil UVA/UVB SPF 50+ protection formula priced at $45. This light and airy formula made from gingko biloba and botanical plant extracts as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties won’t clog pores and actually promotes collagen and elastin production. A sunscreen great for those prone to acne or redness is MDSolarSciences Mineral Crème SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB, priced at $30. This sunscreen is developed by dermatologists and provides antioxidant protection with green tea, cranberry fruit, and pomegranate extracts. Looking for a tinted sunscreen for your face? Try L’Oréal Paris Advanced Suncare Silky Sheer BB Face Lotion, at $10. This sunscreen has color-equalizing pigments in a matte tinted face lotion, which will even out, smooth, and brighten skin while protecting with SPF 30 or SPF 50+. Chosen best for body is continuous spray sunscreen, Sun Bum available in numerous SPF’s at $16. The spray is waterproof, hypoallergenic as well as paraben and PABA-free. Erbaviva priced at $22 is considered a universal sunscreen, which is friendly to the face as well as the body. Infused with chamomile and lavender essential oils, this chemical free formula is noted for its ultra light formula that doesn’t leave an oily residue. Runner ups for everyday use are, Kiss My Face Everyday 15™ Mineral Sunscreen Moisturizer, $15; Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sport SPF 30+, $17; Coppertone Clearly Sheer Sunny Days Face Lotion SPF 30, $7; and Australian Gold Lotion With Kona Bronzers SPF 30, $9.

After you have lathered up with sunscreen, you can slip into the perfect swimsuit that flatters your figure. Gals with less than sleek abs and hips will rejoice when hearing that one of the hot trends for this summer 2015 is a high-waist bikini bottom! Other choices that are sure to flatter every figure are one-piece suits with cut-outs and mesh panels, rash guard tops, ruffled bikini tops, suits with sheer panels, the cropped swim top, slogan one-piece suits, jewelry worked into swimwear and the high-cut maillot swimsuit circa 1990 is back in style. Suits are being sold by designers with the idea of mix and match, allowing you to build the perfect suit for your body type! An idea of what prints are considered fashion forward according to www.thefashionspot.com are “photo prints and tribal prints” and also ginghams, solids, and florals; anything goes!

Remember to wear your swimsuit with pride whether it’s a one piece or skimpy bikini because if you feel good in your suit, you will look good.

Quote of the day:

“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.”

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Affordable accessory alert:

Check out the fabulous swimsuits on ASOS.com that range from $11.50-$260. Your order can be delivered within 6 business days for FREE if you spend $40 or more. With numerous styles and prints you are sure to find something that “suits” you!