Whether you’re cottage-bound or headed for a vacation hot spot, get your summer beauty bag in order with these 10 away-from-home must-haves.

1. Sunscreen
You can’t flip through a magazine or escape a dermatologist’s office without hearing of the dangers of the sun and what it can do to unprotected skin. Your best bet to stave off sun damage is to reach for the sunscreen – preferably one with SPF 30. Why 30? Many dermatologists agree that even the most diligent sunscreen user may not be using or reapplying this skin barrier often enough. By using a high SPF, you better your chances of fighting damaging UV rays and protecting skin, even if you do fumble on application.

2. Exfoliator
Once the warmer weather arrives and normally covered body parts are exposed, skin takes center stage. Exfoliating both your face and body twice a week gives it a healthy glow, boosts cell turnover and leaves it feeling soft and supple. TIP: Because the skin on your face is more delicate than that of your body, the number of times you exfoliate in a week depends on your skin type. Talk to your dermatologist about how often you should exfoliate and what type of products will best suit you.

3. Lip balm
The skin on your lips is one of the most sensitive on your body – and one of the quickest and easiest places to burn. To protect your pucker, use a lip balm with SPF and apply often throughout the day.

4. UV-infused hair products
Just as skin comes under attack by the sun, so does hair. Your best bet for protection? A wide-brimmed hat, which shields strands from damaging rays. Can’t commit to wearing head gear for every appearance in the sun? Look for products infused with UV protection. Some options to try: shampoo, conditioner, leave-in sprays, serums, creams and gels.

5. Waterproof mascara
For both the scorching summer and blustery winter, waterproof mascara is a beauty bag must. And not only is it perfect for any and all climates, this type of mascara gives lashes stay-put, smudge- and run-proof power.

6. Self tanner
Skip the burn, peel and eventually tan method and go straight to the bronzed effect with self tanners. Because they cause almost instant colour changes to skin, they supply you with a just-back-from-vacation look without the damage.

7. After-sun cream
Sometimes despite your best efforts, sun damage happens. By using an after-sun cream on inflamed skin, you’ll reduce healing time, supply skin with the hydration it needs and soothe damaged areas.

8. Leave-in conditioner
Whether you’re in and out of pools, exposing your hair to the sun or washing frequently, leave-in conditioner is a great year-round treat for your mane. Unlike conditioners you wash out, many leave-in sprays continue to hydrate hair even after you’ve applied the initial spray.

9. Oil-blotting papers
Hotter temperatures not only cause your body to produce more sweat, but more oil as well. To deal with oiliness, invest in blotting papers which offer a quick, easy, no-washing-required solution.

10. Hair minimizing lotion
Summer is the season of skirts, shorts and legs on display. For the inevitable moments when a razor isn’t handy, slather on hair minimizing lotion to lighten and soften hairs, making them less visible to the naked eye.