Be Prepared for Outdoor Fun in the Sun

*This post was written in collaboration with the wonderful people over at Follain.

Hi it's me, Amanda, the girl who has gotten more than her share of debilitating sunburns in her 34 years on this Earth. The skin is fair and the carelessness that I exhibited in the past is embarrassing. All I did was damage my body's biggest organ, my skin, when I could have taken a moment to be prepared for the outdoors, even if I thought I was only going to be out for a "couple minutes". Now that I have kids, it's a TOTALLY different ballgame. I am charged with caring not just for my skin but for the fair littles that I brought into the world. Sun is super damaging but also, ain't no one got time for a sunburned toddler.

Erbaviva Baby Sunscreen at Follain

As we head into a holiday weekend, which is looking like gorgeous weather, it's super important for me as the household and people manager to ensure that I've got everything on hand/in my bag that we would need while being outside in the sun and elements. I've mentioned before that once my kid/s came on the scene, I totally cleaned up my beauty act. This most definitely includes sunscreen as well. Zinc Oxide is the important ingredient and unlike typical sunscreen brands, it doesn't have chemicals/UV filters that are hormone disruptions, yikes. Our top picks: Erbaviva Baby Sunscreen, Josh Rosebrook Nutrient Day Cream SPF 30, and Suntegrity Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Skincando Combat-Ready Bug Repellent at Follain

When you're outside in May, it's like c'mon bugs, leave me alone but really it's only the beginning. Those buggies will be out in full force come Summer and you'll need a healthy way to repel them. I like to have a lot of insect repelling plants around like citronella, geraniums, lemongrass and lavender. I've also made my own soy based essential oil candles with citronella as well... but sometimes that's not enough. There are some great brands creating insect repellent without all the disgusting chemicals. They're safe for you and the kiddos and will be in my Summer bag. Our Picks: Captain Blankenship Sail Away Bug Spray and Skincando Combat-Ready Bug Repellent  

Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes at Follain

Do you sweat? Yeah, me neither... but if I did, I know I would need something for after being out in the sun. Whether your got a little too much sun or you are grimy and greasy, there are some great options for your on the go needs. I personally love to have some face wipes on me in case I need to freshen my business. If I wear makeup and then sweat profusely, I tend to get grimy which is no fun, especially if you're out all day. Face wipes and sprays are fantastic to get a quick refresh. Our Picks: Farmastethics Cool Aloe and Lavender Mist, Herbivore Botanicals After Sun Body Mist and Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes

No matter what you're doing this weekend or any weekend this Summer, please make sure that you are preparing yourself and your family for great skincare. Not only are you saving yourselves from harmful UV rays and huge mosquitoes but you can feel good about the options that you're choosing, knowing that the nasty chemicals aren't present. When you're not worried about your sunblock, you'll only have to be concerned about eating all.the.watermelon. 😉