What a Dermatologist Packs for a Beach Vacation: Reef-Safe Sunscreen, UPF Clothing, & More!

I recently went on a beach vacation to Hawaii with my husband to celebrate our two-year wedding anniversary. As a dermatologist, sun protection was my main focus when packing for our trip. That's why I decided to share all my dermatologist beach vacation essentials that I brought with me. You'll see all of the sunscreens I packed (plus how I calculated how much sunscreen to bring) as well as UPF clothing and more.
SHOP:
Paula's Choice Resist Super Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30*: bit.ly/3pPZtSO
Skinbetter Sunbetter Advanced Mineral Protection SPF 70: bit.ly/35jMZJH
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 100*: bit.ly/3gszb4O
La Roche-Posay Mineral Anthelios Sunscreen Gentle Lotion SPF 50*: bit.ly/3zjpnTg
MDSolarSciences Mineral Creme SPF 50*: bit.ly/3gwSyK6
Brush-on Block Protective Mineral Lip Oil SPF 32*: amzn.to/3woHh5g
Jane Iredale LipDrink Lip Balm SPF 15*: amzn.to/2RTJMgR
Bioderma Sensibio H20*: bit.ly/3cz0it2
SkinFix Foaming Oil Cleanser*: bit.ly/3v5IMET
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF: bit.ly/3ww2p9D
La Roche Posay Toleriane Ultra Moisturizer*: bit.ly/3a1cJhs
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Deluxe Travel Tan Kit*: amzn.to/2RRslxq
IT Cosmetics CC Cream SPF 50+*: bit.ly/3nysOjy
Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara*: amzn.to/2TsmhvY
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Gel*: bit.ly/3gwYP8x
Uniqlo UV Protection Adjustable Wide Brim Hat*: bit.ly/3gsyyrY
Sunday Afternoons Garden Visor: bit.ly/2U7lr87
REI Hiking Hat (Similar): bit.ly/3gB7dnl
Land’s End Rash Guard UPF 50*: amzn.to/35jnJTZ
Coolibar UPF 50+ Beach Shawl*: amzn.to/3vobzUz
Target Women's Stretch Woven Pants UPF 50*: bit.ly/35ltFfk
Target Women's Stretch Woven Shorts UPF 50*: bit.ly/3xmtRGS
Cabana Life Sport Zip Polo*: bit.ly/3gl9BQk
CONNECT WITH ME:
Instagram: / drsamanthaellis
Website: www.mybeautymd.com/
DISCLAIMER: The information in this video is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician. Some of the links in this description may be affiliate links (marked with *). Affiliate links help support my KZbin channel so I can continue to create fun, informational skincare videos for you. Thanks for watching!

[@hannahchan3973]

“I need options!” The reason I give to my family and friends whenever we go anywhere and I have 10000 sunscreens in my bag

[@maggiebar77]

I’ve been really liking your content and your personality! Keep shining

[@laurajean9999]

I appreciate your clinical, science based discussions relating to skincare. You have a soft, clear voice which lends to the pleasant listening experience. Moreover, the manner of instruction affords the KZbin audience respect that many others do not offer. Being uninformed does not equate with being unintelligent. Even though your fans are age variable, thank you for addressing all of us as the mature beings with the mentality to absorb necessary skincare information. Kudos for your well managed, informed platform for skincare guidance.

[@billyjean3118]

How exciting! Happy anniversary ❤️

[@liliv3935]

love all the effort you put in. and so well explained too. La Classe !

[@ddcjenn]

This video was so hopeful, thank you 💜

[@allyk99ah]

Great video! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us

[@Palpatine4Senate]

I've really loved the UPF clothing suggestions from the Dermatologist KZbinrs.

[@nikkiwilliams3491]

Vanicream lip SPF 30 is my favorite! Blends well and is so smooth. Feels great on my lips.

[@parevi1269]

Omg, I was looking for this video and for you! Thank you so much!

[@Rachel-ks5zn]

Congrats on your 2 year! New subscriber! I'm so glad I found your channel. You're so helpful and I love that you took into consideration the sunscreens allowed in Hawaii. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and saving so many lives with your education on sunscreen and skincare. Sending lots of love from San Francisco.

[@DrSamEllis]

Aw thank you!! Yay Bay Area!

[@christinamunson314]

I just recently picked up SunBum Lip - they have untinted and tinted. I love Paula's Choice - that sunscreen is amazing under makeup. Jack Black Lip Balm is great too! I also recommend the Fenty Body Sauce if you want to look instantly tan.

[@ellieh284]

The blistex that is in a golden tube is my favorite chapstick!!! It is spf 30 and leaves no white cast or weird texture and doesn’t leave a disgusting taste in your mouth!! Smells great too!

[@nikkil764]

I love Lilly Pulitzer UPF clothing for vacation. Great protection and darling colors/prints.

[@laurajean9999]

This video was very helpful for our recent visit to our Mexican condo. The suggestions for specific sunscreen products was beneficial. The mathematical consideration for calculating the AMOUNT of products was crucial for adequate packing. As a person with sensitive skin that it is oily, aging & blemish prone, I have learned to be more cautious when choosing products for my skin. Therefore, it was important for me to plan accordingly as not to take risks with untested sunscreens available at our travel destination. Thank you for providing practical advice for traveling with sunscreens.

[@zeebeautytour994]

Such a helpful video for my coming staycation 😘

[@beth6445]

Great info! I am loving your channel.

[@purplejasper]

Love all the recommendations!

[@nikkiwilliams3491]

I also use the La Roche Mineral Gentle Lotion SPF 50. I use it daily because I am eczema prone and it is super gentle. I notice that if you warm the sunscreen in your hands by rubbing them together and then pat on the face and body then rub in, it works best to reduce the white cast. Warming it makes it eventually sheer out but requires rubbing in all the way. Worth it for sensitive skin types.

[@MichelleGee4]

Thank you for this! So helpful and informative! I'm so happy I found your channel; you have taught me so much and you have such a lovely, non judgemental delivery.

[@lindseykenemer8419]

Great video! Super helpful suggestions. I purchased the Jane Iredale lip balm in buff after you posted about it & I love it! I think this UPF shawl is next, seems like a multi use must have.

[@janelevey3435]

This is a great video, wonderful information!

[@RachelTerry]

Loved this video, we are going to the beach for a week in a few days so the spf recommendations were appreciated.

[@rachelwhite1702]

I really loved the clothing section of this video - so helpful to know what asides from sunscreen you use to keep your skin protected! Just wish we had some of those brands in the UK 😊

[@Federico84]

I have a Spanish sunscreen that I love, it is excellent for the face and you can apply it over your eyelid and it doesn’t burn at all, really easy to apply and it offers a 50 SPF protection

[@katygoodman4960]

Would love to see your regular skincare and makeup routine 💕

[@AllyKit]

That Paula’s Choice is my favorite everyday SPF ❤️ I am still looking for a water resistant facial sunscreen for hubby when he goes fishing that doesn’t sting his eyes. He dislikes fragrance, white cast, and reapplying.🤪 He liked the tinted Australian Gold but it looked like makeup all over his shirt. Not asking for much huh? 😛

[@myraparis]

I love Rubber Ducky Lip Balm SPF 44. Or colorscience blush/lip color. Otherwise it’s always LRP for sunscreen and skincare! Great video as always!!!!

[@nancyadams9598]

My 2 favorite lip balms are the Vanicream SPF 30 and the Sun Bum SPF 30. Would love to try the lip oil 💙

[@modernenergy682]

I am not a dermatologist but I was supposed to go to Mexico last year and then "panorama" hit. But this is exactly what I purchased for my trip that never happened. I had UPF swimsuits, swimsuit covers, shawl, dress and rashguards. I also purchased a hat from Sunday Afternoons. And of course prior to the trip I was testing sunscreens like crazy. I am pretty proud of myself lol

[@leavemialone629]

Loved this video! I have a similar hat to the REI one from Amazon and I don't leave home without it! Super lightweight, dries quickly and has snaps on the sides that give it a cowboy hat look when snapped. I also use the LRP Anthelios SPF 100 as a body sunscreen due to it causing burning eyes.

[@Patrick-gj6zu]

Love this!

[@laysamarr]

Just found your channel and I love it! Great videos! 😍

[@kendrawatson6698]

oh wow I did not even know about reef safe suncreens! thank you for the info ! also I always make sure I clean all that stuff off my face before bed. and my recent solution is the foreo luna brush. fantastic! total must have

[@jessicatrepel3928]

For SPF lip gloss I recommend Colorscience lip shine SPF 35 (all mineral). I have the color “rose.” Definitely the best SPF gloss I have tried!

[@maryamaltayeb]

I love the jack black intense therapy lip balm, it’s spf 25 and is super hydrating and comfortable on the lips! It’s the only thing that saved my lips while I was on oral accutane, and I’ve used it for years

[@sophia2533]

currently planning a trip this video was so helfpul thank you

[@DrSamEllis]

Yay, so happy to hear that!

[@kendallstark4302]

Happy anniversary! Also, I love the LRP Anthelios 50+ stick for the lips. I live in Spain so I'm not sure if you can get it in the States.

[@RockBandGroupie]

Great suggestions and tips! Love your Instagram and channel 😊

[@Audpod1014]

O'keeffe's lip repair SPF 35 is awesome!

[@ionescuelectra]

A lip balm with SPF50+ is: ISDIN Protector Labial SPF50+ Lip Balm 4gr They also have one with SPF30

[@janinea264]

Thank you for your amazing content! Do you also protect your hair on vacation (like sprays)? If so, do you have any product recommendations?

[@DaPoofDaPoofDaPoofDa]

Great video! Thank you!!

[@martastjepic7043]

Great video! You can try Sundance Lip Balm Sensitive Spf 50, you can't taste it, see it or feel it and it is really nice on the lips🥰

[@jentran1876]

Love your thoughtful pick! My HG Lip SPF is the Colorscience Lip Protection & Care. THis one has an SPF 50 ^^

[@ale.ksandra]

As for vacation, I have always been of the opinion, that even one month vacation won't ruin anything in the course of your yearly skincare routine. My general tip for holidays is less is more. I haven't found a lipbalm spf 30 yet too. Should be more on the market.

[@thebeautificationclub8578]

I recommend the sun bum spf 30 lip balm. they have a lot of different ones and I personally love the coconut one. its my favourite

[@ellehcimneyugn]

the jack black intense therapy lip balm has SPF 25 and its my fave!

[@sj1605]

Paulas choice lip balm is spf 50 and very moisturizing

[@joanneexume3655]

Try the Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 Lip Balm, it's the one in the black tube. I love it, it has no weird taste, smell or white cast and its 100% mineral if that is what you are looking for.

[@alanna4148]

Hey Dr. Sam Ellis. I wanted to give a recommendation since you asked! I went on the hunt last week for a lip sunscreen and discovered a pretty awesome one! I got it at Walgreens. It is the "Banana Boat Sunscreen Balm with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, Broad Spectrum SPF 45". I hope this helps! I just discovered your channel btw. And started following you on Instagram. So grateful to have found you!

[@edcruzz]

3:30 first time I've ever heard someone mention using sunblock on a plane 😂. Loving all the info though and the banana boat light as air has been my favorite of your recommendations so far!

[@volpi_nana]

I love your videos! 🥰

[@9melissal]

Supergoop has lip balms with SPF 30 that are great! They even have a lip gloss that is SPF 40. Vanicream also has a lip balm that is SPF 30 and a serious bargain!

[@charlottelrose3221]

Such a great video, thank you. I will definitely be trying that moisturiser and the Paula's Choice SPF. Here in the UK I get The Body Shop's Vitamin E Lip Balm with SPF15, not sure if it's sold in the States. Hard to find a nice lip balm with decent SPF protection! x

[@elisasilva5621]

You need to try Paula's Choice Lipscreen SPF 50.. it's just like a reguar lip balm, completely transparent, not weird color or taste, and you can put lipstick/gloss over it without an issue!!! the best I've ever tried so far :)

[@jessicagomez1760]

I feel like we are besties 💕 love your content

[@DrSamEllis]

Aw thank you!

[@InspiredXReflections]

Beach bum has good spf 30 chapstick. I got mango and it tastes really good too. Like sweet mango candy. They have other flavors too and some tinted ones but they are less spf. I also got a neutragena tinted lip spf 20 and I really like it too.

[@Kasey113]

CoTz has a mineral SPF 50 lip balm with a light nude beige tint, that feels good on the lips.

[@a-sinnersavedbygrace415]

I’d love more videos from her.

[@nikkil764]

Thanks for this. During the pandemic last year we bought a beach front condo on the Gulf of Mexico. I’m very fair and burn easily. I’ve been looking for good high spf sunscreens.

[@kmjdebay]

Great video with really helpful information for anyone going to a beach ...even not in Hawaii. I swim laps daily in an outdoor backyard pool (SoCal). I think I have about another month before it gets too cool at night and the water temp drops. As a swimmer, what body sunscreen do you recommend? Especially that won't stain a suit. I can't swim in a rash guard, it just drags. I have been trying a lot, but most are just kind of messy. I am trying EVY, but it is really expensive. Quite tenacious, though. I have trouble getting sunscreen on my back, which is getting the worst exposure. Out of the pool, I am head to toe SPF and in the shade with a hat. I do have a couple water polo type suits, but they are pretty heavy for laps. Thank you!

[@KasiaZ]

Oh, that coco&eve tanning mousse is great! :) maybelline lash sensational is my holy grail mascara (I do not use waterproof, though!).

[@annettebarbieri217]

Would love to know your recommendations for parents and teens in Florida who are at hot and sweaty soccer games in 98 degree heat. Sweatproof sunscreen/clothes that’s not hot. Love your tips!!!

[@lorainemcgillivray77]

Hi tbh I don't really do beach vacations/holidays, but as a fitzpatrick one (with both rosacea and eczema) spf etc is essential in any warmer weather. I'm using the skinceuticals spf50 mineral liquid for face, neck and chest. My favourite lip spf is from ultrasun - no taste despite being a chemical spf and super moisturising. It's available in both spf 30 and 50. For body I normally use a kids chemical spf and slather it on - LRP, Garnier solaire, L'Oreal etc. I find a long sleeved classic button shirt in a UPF50 to be an essential item for me - I can wear it over practically anything as a cover up. I wear linen trousers or maxi skirts for walking around - both cool, comfortable and block enough UV for my lifestyle. Obviously seeking shade and air con are something I do often. Too much sun gives me a headache despite sunglasses and a hat. I live in the UK and really hot weather isn't something we get a whole lot of, but we do have very hot days in the Summer. I hope you really enjoyed your vacation and happy belated anniversary. Best wishes.

[@Wazzaaap]

Where’d you get the white shirt you’re wearing? It’s beautiful ✨ Really appreciate how comprehensive & cogent this video is. Thank you!

[@MilaMilosevic]

Thanks for this detailed video! I’m definitely getting the coolibar wrap :) For long, cross Atlantic flights, is it needed to reapply sunscreen? I feel like I can’t physically get my hands clean enough to touch my face and reapply sunscreen (I’m a germ freak 🤪).

[@ameliatejeda]

I believe the whole all in motion atheletics line is upf 50 for those looking for some cheaper upf options :)

[@DrSamEllis]

I didn’t realize this was true of the entire line! That’s awesome.

[@nenyl]

i LOVE the MD Solar Sciences!!!! i’ve never seen anyone else talk about it before!

[@oliviahope9848]

Great vid, love the channel. On a side note, has anyone ever told you that you look like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy? I can’t stop seeing the similarities!

[@DrSamEllis]

Not until I started KZbin! But I totally see it too now.

[@jensummers2]

Great video! I’m currently recovering from Mohs/reconstructive surgery for basal cell carcinoma. Even though I was already using sunscreen, I am eating this video up with the extra protection tips. I know it’s good to wait a bit before applying makeup over sunscreen but what about vitamin C? How long would you recommend waiting to apply sunscreen on top of Vitamin C?

[@lillianzach1453]

Can you do a suggestion video on lip treatment? Sunsreens, need for sunscreen, best moisture/hydration etc.

[@criss.b.a4102]

Hello Dr. Sam, please do a video about rosacea prone skin.

[@nikki2370]

The colorescience sticks double as a good lip SPF too! I think they're like SPF 35 or something Edit: they're 50. And MD solar science and Neutrogena all make SPF gloss. I definitely think I want that lip oil SPF.

[@SG-os3dt]

Vanicream lip spf is a must! As well as EltaMD uv pure for body and EltaMD uv elements for face :)

[@jessicajones5973]

I love the Elta products, but they are not reef safe.

[@betaniaramirez8275]

Can You recommend drugstore mineral sunscreen? PD: i love your videos and Instagram stories, i learn so much

[@carly4771]

Is Clinical just put out a lip balm. Expensive but amazing. SPF 35, broad spectrum, no white cast. Smells sooo good

[@DaPoofDaPoofDaPoofDa]

Japanese lip spfs are BOMB!

[@kathleenwarner4046]

Love the Rohto Melty Milk

[@anaguerrero3466]

I recently found a brand called, ‘derma e’ and have been using their scar scream with spf 35. I love how it feels and the reapplication of it leaves my skin looking mattefied (which I don’t mind, since I have oily skin) can you give your take in this product.

[@LdyJezabel]

I appreciate the sunscreen information. Recently my husband and I have been doing cardio in an indoor pool. I’ve been having a hard time finding information on hair or skincare to protect the skin from chlorine. A pre and post would be phenomenal. I know I have sensitive skin which could be the reason for it being itchy. Any suggestions or educational recommendations would be phenomenal. Thank you.

[@sandrag5528]

Vitamin c neutralizes chlorine

[@hecticeclectic1793]

I believe Coola makes several tinted Mineral SPF 30? lip balms. Also, Colorscience has tinted spf Mineral lip gloss. Thanks for the information!

[@hecticeclectic1793]

Also, Colorscience Mineral tinted balms.

[@enamontiel4237]

Coolibar sleeves and a pop up tent, awesome recommendations. What did you take the cf phloretin in or took gel version?

[@DrSamEllis]

I took it in a mini sample bottle! I don’t like the gel formulation of this one since I tend to be on the dry side.

[@nikki2370]

I haven't jumped on that Paula's choice one yet. I'm trying to find some of these more dewy looking mineral SPFs due to sensitivities

[@xr29-72]

What products do you use to wash off the sunscreen at night ? Thank u

[@Thefun-cousins523]

I have vitiligo on my hands, face, knees & elbows and always wear a hat when I’m outside for more than 30-minutes and bought protective clothing to wear when on the boat. The only thing I’ve had trouble finding are gloves to use so I’m constantly spraying sunscreen on my hands.

[@katherineramirez9342]

Hi! What shade you are in the It cosmetics CC ?

[@goodnight1931]

Loved this video! MD solar science, Avene, Earth Rhythm and Vanicream make some of my favourite lip sunscreens if you wanna check them out!

[@_KayGee_]

Which is best for face application? On that note, what's a great every day face sunscreen?

[@kristysomerset4806]

I want to try the Md. solar science lip spf 30 in nude, pink, &shimmer! Curious if you’ve tried these before? & if u would recommend? Love to see u do a video on these for us ?

[@freemanlb1]

do you have any other recommendations for sunscreens for the body that do not have fragrance for everyday use that are not going to rub off on everything? I want to try the banana boat one you recommended but it has fragrance and that usually irritates me.

[@isabelleribeiro3248]

Should I keep using my azelaic acid (for rosacea)?

[@behuman1606]

Bioderma SPF 50 is really good

[@amyhutchinson9080]

Would LOVE to see a broad spectrum lip product that’s more of a chapstick if you find a good one!

[@vio6602]

Im doing a cortison treatment to face and neck with miconazolnitrat, Is it protective enough to use a 50+ spf during the summer?

[@jillbartoszek9380]

Hi, great video, do you have to change up your skincare or sunscreens? Thanks

[@DrSamEllis]

Absolutely not! I just like to!

[@denisegrosch2744]

This is such great info! My credit card is blowing up as we speak :)

[@worldlit1146]

Congratulations - Ladies (and gents), slather your post-pandemic, sun-sensitive skin.

[@Lily_-iz4py]

After doing all dat to prevent sun damage.. did u still tan?? Coz i did d same things fr a vacation but I still tanned a bit 🤔🤔

[@nikita8957]

Hi Dr Sam , I am early 💜

[@svetlana.chetverikova]

Surfer brands has a lot of UPF clothes!!!