Beach Bag essentials for healthy Skin + Body

As someone who has dealt with chronic illness for the past decade, I have gotten pretty good at being prepared when it comes to going somewhere (anywhere, really). Which, had also come in handy for being pregnant. This summer my skin (and body) needs a little bit of extra TLC so I am sharing what I am using to keep myself cool. 

Supernova Toner, from Olive + Grayce
Supernova is soo refreshing for pre- and post-sun skin care. The Supernova toner contains healing aloe which, when applied 24 hours prior to sun exposure has been proven to improve the skin's immune system and reduce UV rays by 20% (though not to be used to replace your SPF!). It also contains the gemstone, blue malachite which is known to detoxify, hydrate and clean the skin. It also hydrates the skin by helping to fight against free radicals, preventing water loss and stimulating collagen. I personally love that it smells like peppermint and vanilla, which feels like a sipping minty cocktail on a hot summer day. Shop here.

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Glow Botanical Serum, from Olive + Grayce 
I use Glow every morning and night after washing my face and applying my toner. I feel naked without it. With rosehip oil as its main active ingredient and antioxidants of lemon and blood orange, Glow is like a multi-vitamin for your face. I am pretty much addicted to rosehip oil for my skin. It contains high amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants which brighten and boost skin complexion, while protecting against oxidative stress and damage. It also helps reduce redness, making it the perfect follow up to the Supernova Toner for pre- and post- skincare. Shop here.

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Natural SPF
SPF is obviously super important, but I do prefer to go natural and non-tox when I can so that I am protecting my skin while also not adding to any oxidative stress or toxins. Some of the brands I like are Cocokind, Grown Alchemist and Saie for face. 

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Dry Brushing
Dry brushing before a shower can help to exfoliate and brighten the skin which can give you that summer glow without even going into the sun. It also helps to flow and drain the lymphatic system, which detoxes the body. I use my plant-based dry brush from Olive + Grayce. Just a word of caution, if you are sunburnt, give it a little time before dry brushing as that could irritate already inflamed skin! For more on my dry brushing tips click here.

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Hydration + Nourishment
Hydration and snacks are top of mind for me when I go anywhere. Well, snacks are always top of mind for me but hydration is also SUPER important when spending any time in the sun. Some tips are adding things like coconut water or fresh lime to your water bottle to give you an added boost of electrolytes and hydration. For snacks, I like to focus on water-based fruit like watermelon so that I am continuing to hydrate and eat my water so to speak. But I will also make a trail mix with nuts, seeds and dried fruit for easy packing and a quick nutrient boost. For some healthy snack inspo, check out my cookbook, The Nourished Spoon. 

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Herbal Drops
I almost always have a tincture in my bag (with the exception of pregnancy) with adaptogenic or nervine herbs just in case I need a little pick-me-up or calm me down. I usually have my Olive + Grayce Focus drops with me since the adaptogenic schisandra berry supports my adrenal function and hibiscus helps to cool and calm the body. The best part is you can drop some right into your tea or water! Shop herbal drops here.

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Besides these essentials I am usually packing a hat, sunglasses, towel and a light change of clothes! I hope you found this helpful - I am curious what else you all pack! Comment below :)