There are few things I love more than a beach day.
The sound of the waves.
Warm sunshine on my skin.
Hours spent playing in the water.
Listening to my children's laughter echo across the beach.
Ahhhh… I can practically feel the sun on my back just thinking about it.
But there was always one thing that used to steal a little bit of that joy.
Can you guess what it was?
UV rays.
(Cue the scary music.)
For years, I felt like I had to choose between two options I didn't love:
- Cover my family in chemical-filled sunscreen.
- Skip the sunscreen and hope for the best.
Neither choice felt like a win.
That's why I was absolutely thrilled when I discovered a plant-based, mineral sunscreen that's also reef safe.
Why Reef-Safe Sunscreen Matters
Did you know that many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can damage coral reefs?
Every year, sunscreen washes off swimmers and enters our oceans, where certain ingredients have been linked to coral reef damage.
In fact, places like Hawaii have banned the sale of sunscreens containing some reef-harming ingredients to help protect their fragile marine ecosystems.
That's a pretty big deal.
As someone who loves the beach, I want to protect both my family and the beautiful places we're making memories.
Choosing a reef-safe sunscreen means doing both.
Why I Love Plant-Based Mineral Sunscreen
One of my favorite things about Young Living's sunscreen is that I don't feel like I'm choosing between protecting my family from the sun and exposing them to ingredients I'd rather avoid.
Instead, I get peace of mind knowing we're using a sunscreen that is:
- Plant-based
- Reef safe
- Mineral-based
- Gentle enough for the whole family
- Available in multiple SPF options
It's protection I can feel good about.
Choosing the Right SPF for Your Family
Every family has different skin types.
Some people tan beautifully.
Others...
Well...
Some of us belong to the "super pale people club."
(Hi. It's me. 🙋♀️)
Having different SPF options makes it easy to choose the level of protection that works best for each family member and each outdoor adventure.
Whether you're spending an afternoon at the park or an entire day at the beach, consistent sunscreen application is one of the simplest ways to help protect your skin.
Don't Forget After-Sun Care
Let's be honest.
Sometimes we're having so much fun that we stay outside just a little longer than planned.
One more swim.
One more walk down the beach.
One more game of volleyball.
And suddenly your skin reminds you that the sun was stronger than you realized.
That's why I always like having an after-sun spray on hand.
It feels wonderfully soothing after long days outside and helps refresh skin that's spent hours soaking up sunshine.
Complete Your Summer Outdoor Kit
Sun protection is only one part of enjoying summer.
I also like keeping a few other warm-weather essentials nearby:
Insect Repellent
Perfect for:
- Camping trips
- Hiking adventures
- Backyard barbecues
- Evening walks
- Sporting events
Nobody wants mosquitoes ruining family memories.
Insect Repellent Wipes
These are especially handy for:
- Travel
- Kids
- Theme parks
- Beach bags
- Diaper bags
Quick, convenient, and easy to toss into your purse.
Summer Is Meant to Be Enjoyed
Summer is made for:
- Beach vacations
- Camping trips
- Pool days
- Family cookouts
- Long walks
- Barefoot evenings
- Making memories
Having products that support your family means spending less time worrying and more time enjoying the people you're with.
That's what summer should be about.
The Bottom Line
Protecting your family from the sun doesn't have to mean choosing between effective protection and ingredients you feel good about.
With reef-safe, plant-based options available, it's easier than ever to enjoy everything summer has to offer while caring for both your family and the environment.
So grab your towels.
Pack the sunscreen.
Bring the snacks.
And go make some memories.
Because the sun really can be fun when you're prepared.
What's Your Favorite Summer Adventure?
Are you happiest at the beach, the lake, the campground, or the backyard barbecue?
I'd love to hear your favorite way to enjoy the sunshine in the comments below!
Here's to sunshine, family memories, and a summer full of adventure! ☀️🌊
Have you ever felt like your internal thermostat is permanently set to "broil?"
Welcome to my world.
I'm a hot mama... and I don't mean in the good-looking sense. 😜
This mama can heat up faster than a microwave in the middle of July, and let me tell you—it can be downright miserable.
Sometimes it's the summer sun.
Sometimes it's my cute husband's fault... IYKYK. 😉
And sometimes my body just decides it's time to become its own personal furnace.
No matter the reason, one thing is certain:
Mama does NOT like to be hot.
Thankfully, I've discovered a simple trick that feels almost like magic.
Why Peppermint and Eucalyptus Feel So Cooling
Have you ever noticed that peppermint makes your skin feel cool almost instantly?
It's not just because it smells refreshing.
Did you know?
Peppermint contains menthol, while eucalyptus contains eucalyptol. These naturally occurring compounds activate the skin's cold receptors, creating a cooling sensation—even when your actual body temperature hasn't changed.
It's one of my favorite ways to find quick relief during hot summer days.
Today's Tip: Create Your Own Natural Cooling Station
If you're constantly overheating like I do, keep these cooling essentials ready all summer long:
- Peppermint Essential Oil
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil
- A small spray bottle
- A few clean washcloths
- A carrier oil
Trust me—you'll thank yourself later.
My Favorite DIY Peppermint Cooling Mist
This is probably the easiest summer wellness trick I use.
You'll Need:
- Cool water
- 1–2 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil
- Small glass spray bottle
Shake gently before each use.
Whenever the heat starts getting to me, I mist my:
- Face
- Neck
- Arms
The cooling sensation kicks in almost immediately.
For longer-lasting comfort, I also dilute a drop of peppermint in a carrier oil and apply it to the back of my neck.
Important: Always dilute peppermint before applying it to your skin, and avoid getting it near your eyes. Peppermint is wonderfully powerful!
My Favorite Cooling Towel Trick
When I've been outside too long working in the yard or spending time in the heat, this is my go-to reset.
Here's how I use it:
- Wet a washcloth with cool water.
- Add a few drops of Eucalyptus Globulus Essential Oil.
- Wring it out slightly.
- Drape it across the back of your neck.
The cooling sensation is incredibly refreshing and helps me feel comfortable again within minutes.
Sometimes I'll even keep these towels in the refrigerator so they're ready whenever I need them.
Bonus Benefit: Soothe Bug Bites Naturally
Summer heat usually comes with another unwelcome guest...
Bugs.
One thing I love about peppermint is that after spending time outside, it can also provide a soothing, cooling sensation on itchy bug bites.
It's like getting two summer benefits from one little bottle.
Why These Cooling Essential Oils Are Summer Favorites
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint has become my version of a portable air conditioner.
I love it because it:
- Creates an immediate cooling sensation
- Refreshes after workouts or yard work
- Makes homemade cooling mists incredibly affordable
- Helps me feel more comfortable on hot afternoons
Eucalyptus Globulus Essential Oil
When I'm truly overheated, eucalyptus is my first choice.
It's perfect for:
- Cooling towels
- Outdoor recovery
- Summer heat relief
- Refreshing after gardening or exercise
Together, peppermint and eucalyptus make an incredible summer wellness team.
Simple Summer Comfort Starts with Preparation
If you know you're sensitive to heat, don't wait until you're miserable.
Keep a few cooling essentials ready:
- Peppermint mist in the refrigerator
- Cooling eucalyptus towels
- Peppermint diluted in a carrier oil
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated
A little preparation makes summer so much more enjoyable.
The Bottom Line
You don't have to suffer through every hot summer day.
Whether you're working in the yard, watching the grandkids play outside, heading to the beach, or simply trying to survive another afternoon of triple-digit temperatures, natural cooling solutions can make a world of difference.
And for this hot mama...
They've become absolute summer necessities.
What's Your Favorite Way to Cool Down?
Do you swear by iced tea?
Cold showers?
Swimming?
Frozen washcloths?
I'd love to hear your favorite summer cooling trick in the comments below!
Here's to staying cool all summer long! ☀️🌿
