It’s beach season! Time to have fun in the sun and surf. Taking a few precautions can ensure that your beach day is fab rather than drab. DO WEAR SUNSCREEN Skincancer.org reports that 3.5 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year. Keep yourself and your family safe when having fun in the sun by following the suggested FDA guidelines. Use a water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum 30 SPF. Also, choose products that have some combination of the following ingredients: avobenzone, ecamsule (a.k.a. MexorylTM), oxybenzone, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, for effective UVA protection. DO WEAR A CUTE SWIMSUIT For fashionistas the beach is another runway for you to strut your stuff while showing your exquisite fashion sense. Whether choosing a retro, vintage, classic, one-piece or bikini, wear the swimsuit with confidence. For fun, try mixing up the top and bottom of a bikini. DO HAVE NO-FUSS HAIR The sun, sea and sand can cause your hair to go from chic to bleak in a matter of minutes. Forget the curling or flat iron and opt for easy styles that won’t interfere with swimming, playing volleyball or relaxing in your cabana. An up-do bun can keep the tangles at bay while the perfect ponytail keeps the hair secured while still being stylish. DO STAY HYDRATED Sweating in the hot sun can quickly lead to dehydration, which can cause fatigue, a slower metabolism and even lead to heat stroke. Stay safe at the beach and leave the sugary sodas, alcoholic drinks and the caffeinated iced-tea at home. Instead bring a cooler full of bottled or refillable containers of water. Drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day. DO ACCESORIZE WITH JEWELRY But keep it simple! Avoid wearing any gemstones that are porous and may be damaged by salt water or chlorine, such as pearls. Opt for sterling silver or 14k gold in the form of a ring, necklace or earrings. Diamond engagement rings are safe to wear at the beach, though take the time to rinse the ring in water at the end of the day to wash away any sand particles that may have become stuck between the diamond and the setting. SOME SIMPLE BEACH-GOER DON’TS Don’t forget to wear a hat and sunglasses for even more sun protection. Even if you are wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat can shade your face from the sun. The American Academy of Ophthalmology explains, “A number of scientific studies indicate that spending long hours in the sun without eye protection can damage your eyes by contributing to cataracts, macular degeneration, and growths on the eye, including cancer.” The organization recommends wearing sunglasses that are 99% and above UV-absorbent. Another DON’T: Don’t forget to have fun!