Summer really is the best time of year, isn’t it? Things just seem so much simpler during those long, balmy days where fun times on the beach roll into cool evenings with friends on the patio. While it’s hard to find anyone who doesn’t love this time of year, the fact that we’re all wearing less means that we really have to step up our game when it comes to beauty and skincare. If shedding those layers of clothing brings on an anxiety attack, fear not! The following checklist will have you summer-ready before you’ve even sipped your first sangria!

First – defuzz!

It’s so easy to let our shaving habits slide in the winter and while a break in routine may be a relief, you’re going to need to deal with the results before slipping on that skimpy summer dress. We all have our favorite ways to shave off unwanted hair but even if you don’t want to commit to regular waxing throughout the season, having it done professionally at the start of the summer is a good investment. And when it comes to that all important bikini line, consider trying some of the new laser treatments now available to cut down on irritation and, for the very sensitive among us, intense pain in this sensitive spot.

Get Scrubbing

Once you’ve lost the body hair, it’s time to give your body an all over exfoliation. Dead skin cells build up on our body during the winter and you may not have been so diligent in keeping on top of it in the colder months. A natural sugar scrub or exfoliating mitt is all you need in the shower to slough away the dull cells, improve the circulation and reveal fresher, brighter skin you’ll be proud to show off.

Put your Best Foot Forward

As with hair removal, treating yourself to a pedicure at the start of the summer is a great way to ensure your feet are ready for their close-up when you sport your sandals. Having a professional remove any build-up of hard skin makes it easier for you to maintain with a pumice at home and, as we all know, when it comes to nail polish, we can never get our toes to look as perfect when we paint them ourselves!

Tend to the Tresses

Just like your skin, your hair can take a beating in the winter from going from overheated homes to the frigid temps outside. While you could hide your hair under a big old floppy hat all summer, you probably don’t want to, so instead get yourself to your favorite stylist to get rid of those split ends and enjoy a deep conditioning treatment. Prepping your hair will also give it a fighting chance against the exposure to sun, sand, salt and chlorine and keep it looking and feeling healthy all summer long.

Stock Up On Sunscreen

Nothing, I repeat, nothing is more important during the summer than wearing sunscreen. Many brands of body creams, make-up and even hair products now include SPF protection making it easier than ever to fight the damage caused by UVA and UVB rays. Sunburn is not a good look on anyone and can lead to serious trouble in the future so skip the deep tan and choose products with the right level of protection for your skin. If you really crave some color, spray tans and bronzers will give you the sun-kissed look you want with no harm to your health.