Survive pretty with this beach beauty checklist

Our #SummerGoals would not be complete without a trip to the beach! Imagine cooling off in the waters of some dreamy resort...but first things first. We're Project Vanity girls and we want to look good while making sure that we stay protected from sun damage.

Here's what we recommend to get you beach-ready from head to toe!

HAIR

You need:

• Sunscreen for your hair and scalp
• Hair ties or bands
• A big floppy hat

You want to look as relaxed as you feel, so leave your curling irons and blowdryers at home! Wear your hair loose (with some sea salt spray for texture!), pulled back in a band, or effortlessly chic in loose braids. Accessorize with a floppy hat to be Instagram selfie-ready and get some shade from the sun, but if it’s not your style, you can also spray sunscreen for your hair and scalp.

• Otional: hair masks or hair oils
• Wide-tooth comb

Going to the beach comes with the risk of your hair getting dehydrated and damaged from heat and salt water. Aside from rinsing hair thoroughly after playing in the waves, hair masks and oils are your new best friends. You can treat your hair at night then smooth some oil or leave-in conditioner during the day. It's also advisable to use a wide-tooth comb to prevent damage while detangling.

FACE

We've already done quite a few stories on this. If you haven't already tweaked your skincare routine for the summer, do so before anything else! Moisturizer is an especially important part now that the heat is more intense. If you plan on wearing makeup to the beach, then you need to switch to the swim-proof and sweat-proof versions. You can also sport a beach glow-inspired look in keeping with the theme.

BODY

• Exercise
• Exfoliate
• Moisturize
• Sun-protect
• Stay fresh

Who doesn't want a bikini-ready body in time for a trip to the beach? The best way to achieve this is still the winning combo of a proper diet and regular exercise, but you can also fake a more toned body by using tanners to contour. ;)

To go with your beach bod, you'd want your best skin ever! Smooth and glowing comes after exfoliating then hydrating with lotions. Afterwards, slather on some affordable but effective sunscreen to avoid skin damage. Reapply every so often to be on the safe side. If you're using your bottle leftover last summer, look out for any funny smells, texture or color changes. Spot any of that and chuck it straight to the bin. Be sure to pack your favorite deodorant too!

We also recommend bringing your favorite perfume into sealed bottles like the Travalo. You just pump the perfume straight into the bottle and it will stay there until you use it up. Using normal glass or (yikes) plastic bottles guarantees that your perfume will evaporate before you know it! It's also nice to tote along a more compact perfume container.

HANDS/FEET

• Hand cream
• Foot cream
• Summer nail polish

Your prep is not complete if you ignore your hands and feet. The oppressive hot weather is enough to leave you with dry palms and cracked heels. Toss some hand cream into your purse, as the thick formula stays longer on your skin compared to regular lotion. Give your feet regular TLC to keep them flip-flop worthy. You can also paint fun colors on your nails that glow under black light if you'll be spending a few evenings partying sea-side!

Are you ready for summer? What’s your top beach destination?