Be Sun Smart and Protect Your Skin

(WMS) - So you're getting married! By now you're planning a white sandy, tropical destination for your honeymoon, right? From Mexico's Puerto Vallarta to the Caribbean you will undoubtedly find yourselves soaking up the sun somewhere in the world as you celebrate your new life together.

With all the packing, planning, thank you's and goodbyes, you may have forgotten an important thing -- sunscreen. Having it on hand can prevent your honeymoon from becoming a burnt-up, uncomfortable disaster.

Think about it -- many of these sunny destinations are closer to the equator where the sun is more intense than what you may be used to.

IF YOUR HONEYMOON PLANS involve time outdoors -- poolside, at the beach or on the slopes -- be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen.

There are a lot of products that will undoubtedly cost double on the cruise ship or in the hotel gift shop. So go prepared. Here are some tips to help you protect yourself.

• Apply early. Put it on at least 15 minutes before you hit the pool, sand or surf. Apply sunscreen in your cab, hotel room or cabana.
• Apply enough. Use at least one full ounce of product or enough to fill a shot glass.
• Use the right SPF. Choose an SPF that suits your skin type. If you are fair, use the highest SPF you can find.
• Be sun smart. Always use a high SPF when tanning to protect your skin against the effects of long-term sun exposure.
• Moisturize. The secret to soft, smooth skin is moisture. Use an aloe rich after-sun product daily.
If you need high protection, check out Hawaiian Tropic's Ozone® 70 SPF, the highest sun protection available in the US. Or are you looking for an oil but still want protection? Pick up Hawaiian Tropic's Protective Tanning Dry Oil with a SPF 15. It's also enriched with carrot extract and Beta Carotene. If you're going to tan before your wedding, try Hawaiian Tropic's Tan2 Max™ line.

Even if you are planning a wintery, romantic honeymoon filled with skiing and horseback riding, the sun and wind can still prove harmful to your skin. Quality sunscreens from Hawaiian Tropic are ideal tools for all around protection against harsh winter elements.