Sunscreen can sometimes be a drag, especially if it means a gunky, white layer that the rest of your makeup floats on until the whole hot mess slides off altogether.

That is why I am SO excited that companies have introduced sunscreens that utilize minerals to provide natural protection from the sun.

I’m thrilled with Jane Iredale’s Powder-Me-SPF in Tanned. The broad spectrum, SPF 30 powder is a great match for my complexion and – bonus! –  offers enough coverage that I can use it in lieu of foundation.

You can purchase Jane Iredale Powder-Me-SPF for $44 in Translucent or Tanned from Jane Iredale Direct.

Exercising your summer skin smarts is a whole lot easier if you’re prepared with the right products; this adorable beach bag contains everything you need to safely enjoy several sun-filled days, sans the accompanying sun damage.

Available from Neiman Marcus for $140.

You’ve already heard this a hundred times, but we’re going to say it again.

The sunscreen in your foundation/primer/moisturizer/mineral makeup IS NOT ENOUGH. These products do not provide the UVA/UVB protection that a broad spectrum sunscreen does. It’s like going out in a rainstorm with a newspaper on your head because you can’t be bothered to fetch your umbrella — except where the sun’s dangerous rays are concerned, a bad hair day will be the least of your worries.

We never leave home without proper protection, and while Anthelios SX has been our favorite, SkinCeuticals Ultimate UV Defense 30 is not far behind. This paba-free, oil-free and fragrance-free formula contains 7% transparent zinc to protect healthy skin and help prevent future damage.

Be skin-smart. Protect yourself.

*Through August 31st, SkinCeuticals is donating a portion of every sunscreen sale to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

We can’t stop talking about the single most important item a girl can have in her Makeup Bag because without daily application of sunblock, our skin is left vulnerable. And scared.

The sun is evil, people. The sun is evil. We repeat – the sun is evil.

(Calm down. We’re kidding.)

Our ficus tree loves the sun, our dogs love the sun, and if we had a solar-powered water heater it would love the sun too. Our skin, however, does not love the sun and must be protected daily. This particular sunscreen from Clinique has us intrigued:

A new member of the City Block family, City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25 is oil-free, lightweight, etc, etc… But the amazing thing about this product is the moisture wicking fibers that help repel perspiration and keep makeup from sliding off your face on those hot summer days.

That alone is worth the $16.50.

As with all City Block products, City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25 is non-irritating, packed with antioxidants and it has a subtle sheer tint, because, you know, two birds? one stone? Clinique has it covered.