#TBT: Coppertone Baby

Coppertone sunscreen was originally invented in 1944 to darken tans, not as a sunscreen (learning interesting tidbits of information on the daily!). Who can forget that adorable advertisement pictured above? The brand also helped launch Jodie Foster acting career; she played the Coppertone girl in a TV spot at the ripe age of three. Coppertone followed many of us through our childhoods, the smell just as much so as the trademark Pepto-Bismal-pink bottle.

Over 70 years later, people are much more concerned with protecting against a tan rather than enhancing it. Unless you’re a fan of wrinkles, sunspots, and uh… skin cancer… it is time to start slathering on these top formulas. Plus, hyper-tans are kind of played out, no? Pale is the new golden (kinda).

Only someone who lives under a rock disregards the importance of wearing sunscreen every.single.day. Yes, even when it’s cloudy or cold. With Kiehl’s Since 1851 Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50 ($38), you can no longer use the excuse that sunscreen makes you too greasy or doesn’t sit well under your makeup. It’s ultra-lightweight and has an undetectable matte finish.

Applying sunscreen while already out in the sun can be a total mess. No matter how careful you try to be with your application, you end up with sand sticking everywhere and hairs cemented to your face. Not a cute look. La Roche Posay Anthelios Cooling Water Lotion ($36) is, as the name attests, a water-like formula that is idiot-proof in its application, but also cools the skin on contact. A beach bag must-have, so stock up now!

Ruining an expensive head of highlights in the sun is a one-time mistake that you never forget… sort of like a bad date. Unfortunately, there is no product for the latter problem, but for the former there is Phyto Phytoplage Protective Sun Oil ($30). It’ll protect your locks against UV damage, while simultaneously softening.

Natural skincare is all the rage recently, and for good reason! Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Defense SPF 30 ($38) protects your visage with zinc, but is formulated without any irritating chemicals. Bonus points for being a universally flattering tint, since the idea of applying a face of makeup at the beach is anything but appealing.

A common mistake among even the most dedicated sunscreen appliers is forgetting their lips. It seems so obvious to protect your entire face, but the pout is all too often completely overlooked. Sun Bum Lip Balm SPF 30 ($4) provides a sheer shield for your lips while also lightly moisturizing.

Overachievers can be a bit off putting, except when it comes to beauty products. Unlike an annoying know-it-all sibling or cousin, the do-it-all tendencies of First Aid Beauty 5 in 1 Face Cream SPF 30 are more than welcome. In addition to protecting from harmful UV rays, this product soothes and evens out your skin while fighting free-radical damage and aging.

For your dermatologist’s piece of mind as well as your own, please apply these products liberally to avoid your bum looking like the Coppertone girl’s. And remember, reapply, reapply, reapply!

Casey Sharbaugh currently resides in New York City and works in the fashion industry. In her spare time, you can find Casey spinning, trying new beauty products, or browsing the city for the best ice cream cone. Find her on Twitter at @caseyhshar