The sun really seems to get a bad rap these days—we’re either deliberately over-exposing ourselves to its damaging rays or are in regular serious danger of doing so. Studies have unfortunately proven that excessive contact with the sun’s damaging UVA and UVB rays is a large contributor to premature aging as well as a potential contributor to skin cancer. Despite all that, the just-returned-from-the-tropics look remains a symbol of luxury. Moderate sun exposure with proper protection, however, can be very healthy. It is a major source of vitamin D, which aids the body in acquiring much needed calcium for strong bones, and contributes to improved health, vibrancy, energy and happiness. With all this in mind, the following suggestions have been compiled to help you look and feel great in the sun while being wisely and properly protected.

Raen Optics
Eyewear is by far the most essential accessory when outdoors. Beyond making you look stylish, it protects eyes from over-exposure to the sun’s harmful rays and aids in preventing squinting, which is a major contributor to the development of wrinkles. Initially launched in 2009, Raen Optics has filled the market’s demand for well-designed styles that are suitable for an active lifestyle. The company balances a modern and stylish aesthetic with attention to detail and craftsmanship suited for anywhere from board meetings to the beach. Raen Optics’ handmade acetate frames, polarized lenses and German spring hinges combine to create long-lasting, durable eyewear.

SunSoul
Nothing is more invigorating than exercising outdoors, but one should still be concerned about using proper UV protection—even in the form of clothing. SunSoul is the first of its kind, combining the comfort and versatility of a high-end sports fabric with advanced professional light-treatment technology. The result is truly revolutionary, and stylish to boot. SunSoul’s fluorescent material selectively amplifies narrow bands of healthy light from the sun, delivering them to the skin while simultaneously removing harmful UV rays. Made up of globally recognized scientists and dermatology specialists, the company’s collective goal is to remain leading innovators in light technology and cosmetic skin condition treatments.

Epicuren Skincare and Sunscreen
Epicuren has created one of the most effective lines of luxury spa products available, utilizing an exclusive enzyme vitamin complex, Metadermabolic enzyme, that encourages the skin to self-rejuvenate. Epicuren’s line of sun products is a perfect example of the care that has been taken to provide the finest ingredients and the most wearable, breathable textures. The company’s extremely light formulas will not only protect your skin from the harmful burning rays of the sun, but will nourish and soothe it as well. Check out the website for a full line of skincare and sun care products, including our favorite: the ultra-light X-Treme Cream SPF 45.

Mission Skincare
Mission Skincare is the first line of high-performance skincare designed specifically for athletes. A collaboration between top professional athletes, including Serena Williams, Mia Hamm and Amanda Beard, and a team of top scientists, the company aims to provide a full range of skincare that includes ultra-durable and wearable sunscreen products. With vital nutrients, vitamins and anti-oxidants, the fast absorbing, light and paraben-free formulas feel great, are highly effective and have an extremely affordable price point. Mission also sells fantastic lip products—another crucial area to protect from the sun—including a delicious 2-in-1 Therapy and Shine lip-gloss!

St. Tropez
For the best self-tanning product on the market, look no further than St. Tropez. The color is by far the most realistic, regardless of your skin tone (no fake orange glow here!), and the at-home application is easy and effective. The non-streak, blendable formula makes applications virtually goof-proof, while exclusive Aromaguard technology prevents the usual unpleasant chemical odors. St. Tropez also offers a full range of products to prepare for and maintain that perfect looking tan, with results that last from two to ten days.

Final notes: Preparing the skin all over is key for healthy, glowing skin. A natural bristle dry brush is a great and affordable way to exfoliate skin at home. It’s good to get in the habit of dry brushing your skin at least once a week before showering, then immediately follow up the wash with moisturizer. As an alternative, the Clarisonic Skin System—which we really cannot recommend highly enough—has a body brush that is ideal for gentle and effective exfoliation.