Some lesser-known benefits of safely sitting in the sun.

I’m walking on sunshine, and don’t it feel good? Or so say the lyrics of peppy 1980s ditty by Katrina and the Waves. Turns out, awesome 80s pop music got it right. I live in sunny Southern California, but I spend much of my time in a writing cave populated by social media clicks and a chipped coffee mug I sometimes bang against the window pane at the outside world. When this happens, I just step outside to soak up the sun.

Why am I doing this? It turns out that that sunlight can have some great health benefits. So here’s ten lesser-known reasons to make sure you get some safe time in the sun.

Sunshine puts us in a better mood.
When you step outside and suddenly feel like smiling, odds are that the sun is smiling down on you. David Strohmetz is a psychologist at Monmouth University. As he told Psychology Today, “nice days put us in a good mood, which engenders helping and generosity. When we’re in a good mood, we want to maintain that mood.” This even makes us better tippers.

Sunshine helps you heal.
A 2007 study found that not getting enough direct sunlight could increase our chances of cancer by at least 70%. However, sitting in too much sun without protection can cause skin cancer. Happy mediums for all!

Sunshine influences the stock market for the better.
The stock market is three times as likely to go up if the city of the exchange is having a sunny day. No word on if traders have figured out a way to beam sunlight onto the floors of the New York Stock Exchange.

Sunshine helps you smoke less.
Psychology Today points out that on cloudy days, we “compensate artificially.” This means that those who smoke, drink, and do whatever else makes them feel “good,” really lay it on thick. Note to self: stop doing rain dances.

We eat less chocolate on sunny days.
Chocolate makes us happy, so we need less of it when the sun is shining. Because we’re already happy! But is this really a benefit? Only if you’re watching your weight.

If you are applying to college, you have a better chance of getting in with lesser grades on a sunny day.
Uri Simonsohn is the behavioral economist at the University of California at San Diego who conducted a study of the science of sun. As he told Psychology Today, “Applicants who are strong academically are more likely to be admitted on cloudy days, whereas candidates who are strong socially are more likely to be admitted on sunny ones. Cloudy days call to mind thoughts of staying inside to read or study.” No word on what snowy days say about academics.

Sunshine can influence your cholesterol.
Our bodies make Vitamin D from sunlight, which is necessary for a whole host of important health issues. Your body converts a type of cholesterol into Vitamin D.

Sunshine helps you sleep better.
If you get a lot of natural light during the day, your circadian rhythms will align. Natural light also increases melatonin which increases sleep. So good night, sweet sun.

Sunshine makes you play more.
In the sun, you feel better and want to get active. Consequently, you have more of an urge to frolic under the sun like wood nymphs in a Shakespearean comedy.

Sunshine can help clear up acne, eczema, psoriasis, athlete’s foot and more.
Some experts urge that getting moderate amounts of sun can help clear up skin disorders. And even still, sun may improve your digestion and metabolism.

*And as always, don’t overdo it, keep your sunblock handy, and talk to a medical professional before treating major ailments with sunshine.

Images: wanko,  johncohen, 33498942@N04, XLordashX, Cara Photography

Are organic sunscreens comparable in quality to their non-organic equivalents?

Does an organic sunscreen work? Don’t I want the highest SPF possible? Will I burn more easily if I use a green sunscreen? Sometimes it seems like organic sunscreen is just one giant enigma surrounded by a sea of chemical rumors. But the truth is out there. Yes, sunscreens containing organic ingredients are as effective as others. You will not burn more easily with a green sunscreen, (unless you don’t apply it correctly), and there is no evidence that any SPF higher than 50+ works better than others.

In fact, green sunscreens work really well. To celebrate this fact, we asked several of our green comrades to share their favorite eco-friendly sunscreen.

Episencial Sunny Sunscreen SPF 35 ($14.99)
Anna Getty, author and green living expert, recommends Episencial Sunny Sunscreen SFP 35. Another top-rated product from Skin Deep, this product uses natural minerals like zinc and titanium with no harmful nanoparticles. It’s also fortified with organic green tea, as well as organic sesame, safflower and avocado oils.

Devita Solar Protective Moisturizer SPF 30+ ($25.95)
Aysia Wright of Chartreuse PR is a Devita Solar devotee. As Aysia tells me, “It’s great for everyday use.” This product received a #1 rating from the Skin Deep database, offering full spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection with a SPF of 30+. Best of all, it goes on extremely light and is virtually free of any sticky residues.

Miessence Reflect Outdoor Balm, SPF 15 ($29.70)
What does Laura Klein slather on her face? The founder and publisher of Organic Authority shares, “My preferred sunscreen is a hat, long sleeves, and glasses. But when I use sunscreen, it’s Miessence Reflect Outdoor Balm.” This product, which scores a rating of #2 from Skin Deep, does not contain any nanoparticles. Further, it creates a physical sun block that bounces the sun’s rays off of your skin, unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb rays.

Badger Balm 30+ Lightly Scented Lavender Sunscreen ($16.00)
Kristen Arnett, makeup artist, Ecosalon columnist, and the founder of Green Beauty Team, recommends this sunscreen for both face and body.
As she tells me, “It does go on rather white, but it’s safe, natural, works well, and lasts for quite a long time. It also doesn’t clog pores and is very hydrating.” This sunscreen also gets a #1 ranking from the Skin Deep database.

COOLA Face SPF 30 Matte Finish Cucumber Natural Mineral Sun block ($36.00)
We’ve made no secret that we’re big fans of COOLA here at Ecosalon. But we’re not the only ones. Another admirer of the brand includes Melissa Tournay, green beauty expert and co-owner of Primrose Organics Salon and Boutique in Los Angeles. This product, which rates a #2 from Skin Deep, is 95% natural with 70% certified organic inactives.

Jurlique Sun Lotion SPF 30+ ($20.00)
Our fearless leader here at EcoSalon, EIC Sara Ost, loves this product from Jurlique. As she tells me, “I adore Jurlique’s products, which are biodynamic. They just smell amazing, and their sun block is nice because it isn’t oily or greasy.” An Australian company, Jurlique is certified under different standards and does not fare as well in the Skin Deep database. However, along with biodynamic principles, the company does employ several sustainable initiatives.

Josie Maran’s Daily Sun Protection SPF 40 with Argan Oil ($32.00)
Anna Griffin, founder and Editor-in-Chief of Coco Eco Magazine, recommends this intense moisturizer from Josie Maran. (Skin Deep rating not available.) Containing some organic ingredients, this product is free of parabens and fragrance.  It’s an extremely hydrating product that is lightweight and fast absorbing.

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Image: 15472273@N07

There has been much ado about everything lately in the world of sunscreens. First, you have to stay out of the sun. Then you have to stay in the sun for at least a few minutes of the day. Then you have to be careful what kind of sunscreen you buy, how much you use it, and how well you use it. Because if you don’t, clearly the media is going to come after you waving sticks tipped with cancer. Or so it seems.

We’ve already learned about the dangers of sunscreen. As we recently reported, the Environmental Working Group has put the world on notice that the excessive amount of chemicals in sunscreens may be doing damage on a cellular level. As we discussed “Common sunscreens contain cinnamates, benzophenones and amino benzoic acid, which counteract sunlight when it is absorbed by the skin, thus causing genetic-material to damage.” Further, experts point out that sunscreen can create a false sense of security amongst its users. You still need to cover up and watch your time in the sun, regardless of what sunscreen you may or may not have put on your body.

But news out of the health world shows that doctors are starting to take notice about these chemicals. Harvard Health Publications reports that the FDA is requiring new rules for sunscreens, which are set to take effect in October of 2010. According to the experts, “UVB is the main cause of sunburn and the more carcinogenic of the two, although both contribute to skin cancer. UVA, which moves at a longer wavelength and is more penetrating, is responsible for tanning and contributes to skin aging.” Companies would be required to test and rank UVA protection claims, and not just UVB. And UVA and UVB will get “equal billing.”

Further, the FDA would make sure reapplication is emphasized while discouraging claims that sunscreens reduce aging and skin cancer risks. SPF ratings would also top off at 50+. Want to know more? You can read in detail about these requirements here.

But what does this mean for the chemicals in sunscreen? At present, not much – though Congress has just introduced the Safe Cosmetics Act of 2010, which will give the FDA authority to make sure dangerous chemicals are not present in our beauty products. (Because right now they don’t have that right. Seriously.)

In the meantime, keep your eye on the prize when it comes to reading your labels. Look for eco-friendly packaging, titanium oxide over zinc oxide, (which Skin Deep rates as less hazardous) and less chemicals in the labels, especially cinnamates, benzophenones and amino benzoic acid.

Image: unconstructive_bry

The upside to humidity? It can help keep your skin moisturized. The downside? It sends your carefully-applied makeup running south faster than a former Alaskan governor in search of fame and fortune. The heat is on, and summer is not going to let us leave the house sweat-free for quite a few more weeks. So what are some easy, quick tips on how to keep your makeup from melting – and other best beauty bits for surviving the warmth?

Use a primer. Primers are considered the basis of your makeup and should be applied under it all. It will help your foundation wear all day, fill in lines and pores, and generally make for a smooth canvas. Some can also absorb oil. Expert call primers the “essential.” I call them “neat-o” – especially Tarte’s ReCreate Primer. This product gives your skin a dry, tight feeling good for summer, though probably not best for dehydrated skin. Tarte’s product is free of parabens, silicone, phthalates, and petrolatum.

Skip the moisturizer for a hydrating toner. Sometimes, just sometimes, it is simply too hot and sticky to think about putting anything other than ice on your face. On those wettest of days, consider substituting your daily moisturizer with a hydrating toner. This can keep your skin feeling balanced, but it won’t necessarily add to the oil you’re already combating. The best toner in the entire universe? Check out our review of Thayer’s Rose Petal Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel.

Use a mattifying sunscreen. Yes, your sunscreen can make your skin feel oilier. So be sure to pick one that’s going to keep things feeling dry. Check out our review of Coola’s Mineral Matte Face Finish SPF 30. To quote myself, “Due to the matte finish, it offers up an almost powdery application that leaves your skin feeling like you just dusted with cover up, not slicked with sunscreen.” You have to love a sunscreen that makes your face feel drier upon application.

Wear a slip. Okay, I know Mad Men is days away from premiering its next season and a lot of us have our Joan Holloway hats ready. But a slip really can cut down on chafing when your skirts literally stick to you. Plus with the high noon rays of summer bearing down on us, it isn’t the worst thing not to be able to see through your skirts. Joan Holloway would agree on such lady-like modesty!

Keep a clean handkerchief. I know, we’re still in Mad Men territory. But when you’re pouring sweat, sometimes a tissue just ain’t gonna cut it. Consider stashing an organic cotton handkerchief in your purse for those moments when you need some extra absorption. They’re cute, utterly recyclable in the wash, and will make the act of dabbing your hairline seem much more vintage.

FTC Compliance

Image: emily higginson

There are pesticides on our food, so we eat organic. There are chemicals in our products, so we buy eco-friendly. There is danger in the sun, so we wear sunscreen. But a new study from the Environmental Working Group shows that skin cancer may be on the rise, partially from the overuse of chemical-laden sunscreens. Now everyone say it with me – “We. Can’t. Win.”

So the real dangers of the sun may not be from overexpose, but from the sunscreen we’ve been told to slather on since childhood? One fact is indisputable – melanoma, cancer of the skin, is on the rise. As we just reported, some experts feel this is because of the overuse of tanning beds.

But now authorities from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) propose that the extensive presence of chemicals in sunscreen may be causing damage on the cellular levels. And that the false sense of security provided by sunscreen may also be complicating the matter. In other words, people put on one coating of sunscreen and then spend the day in the sun sporting around chemically-sunscreen and a false sense of security. (So yes, you can either use too much sunscreen or too little. Your pick!)

Here are the facts as recently reported. Common sunscreens contain cinnamates, benzophenones and amino benzoic acid, which counteract sunlight when it is absorbed by the skin, thus causing genetic-material to damage. It doesn’t stop there. The EWG points out that 60 percent of beach and sport sunscreens contain the hormone-disrupting oxybenzene chemical. Another 40 percent include retinyl palmitate, a type of vitamin A that “may accelerate skin cancer-growth.”

So where is the FDA in all this? As Columbia Doctors East Side dermatologist Dr. Monica Halem told reporters, the FDA is developing a four star rating system for sunscreens – that they have been working on since 1978. Yes, the FDA has been writing this report for 32 years.

According to Dr. Halem, “The FDA is still trying to implement this four star monitoring system and hopefully within the next year or two this will be out so that patients are aware that they’re not just being covered by UVB but they are also being covered by UVA.”

The take-away from all this? It seems that safe guidelines to sun are about as complicated as a Real Housewives of New Jersey’s bank account. (Garden State love!) So we will try to keep it simple. Stay out for ten minutes without sunscreen, but slather on once you’ve gotten your allotment of vitamin D.

Keep your sunscreens and sun blocks eco-friendly. Why? Because they do contain less chemicals that traditional brands. Click here for safer face sunscreens. And here for safer body sunscreens. In the meantime, can someone please come hold my hand while we wait for the next news to break about the dangers of beauty?

For further reading:
Study reveals sunscreen’s darker side.

Image: Tom Purves

Sunscreen can be, well, complicated. It’s like the bad boyfriends of our earlier twenties. We were told they were necessary at the time, but were they really worth the hassle in the end? As we recently reported, the Environmental Working Group declared that skin cancer is on the rise partially due to the extensive chemicals found in common sunscreens. Common sunscreens are causing damage on the cellular level. Just like our ex-boyfriends did. See how it’s all circular?

So it’s imperative to keep our sunscreens as chemical-free as possible. This brings us to the tactile portion of your reading experience – and that is how the sunscreen feels. I’ve been lucky enough to sample organic and natural sunscreens galore, so I feel like I’ve run a marathon of sunscreens. Texture is everything. A sunscreen may be made from wild berries grown organically on Venus, but if it’s too oily, I’m out. And if it has a hint of chalkiness to it, it might as well be battery acid. “˜Cause I ain’t using it.

Why am I admitting to be a total sunscreen diva? Because I know I have secret sisters out there who have the same worries. Well worry no more, my divalicious brethren! I’ve found a face sunscreen that serves up the best of all worlds. Coola Suncare’s Mineral Face Matte Finish SPF 30 is like the holy grail of sunscreen. It’s free of parabens, preservatives, and chemicals, and it is made with certified organic ingredients. It offers both UVA/UVB protection.

And best of all? It goes on like air. Due to the matte finish, it offers up an almost powdery application that leaves your skin feeling like you just dusted with cover up, not slicked with sunscreen. It was so ingenious that I immediately contacted the founder of Coola Suncare, Chris Birchby, to ask the secrets to this matte finish. (Full disclosure: Chris is also a friend of mine from Lafayette College. Does this mean I’m biased? Only against Lehigh University – Go Pards!)

I asked Chris to explain how the “matte” concept came about for this sunscreen. According to Chris, “While our chemists were experimenting with the best way to achieve a transparent zinc and titanium dioxide based sun block, they developed this wonderful powdery matte formulation. The cashmere powder feel immediately hooked us!”

Chris goes on to explain just what makes this matte so special. As Chris told me, “All our products are unique in their own way, but this matte powder cream offers a perfect counterpoint to our ultra sheer SPF lotions and is ideal for normal to oily skin types.”

Now, this product isn’t cheap at $36 for almost two ounces. Coola’s Suncare is preservative free, so you’re going to want to use it and use it well. You can order it here or find a store near you.

FTC Compliance

Image: Adam Witwer

The sun is our friend. Except when it gives us wrinkles. And sun spots. And skin cancer. But of course we love the sun and every wrinkle and blemish it gave us while we kayaked/hiked/skied/biked under its rays. But anyone who has peeled their skin off in black, burnt chunks (welcome to my childhood) knows what a bad burn will do to you. Yep, it ain’t pretty.

So what to do when you want to get a safe, healthy glow? Glows are important to good health – after all, sunlight contains vitamin D. Vitamin D is not present in very many foods, but it is necessary for bone growth and immune function. Apparently, people who are deficient in the D-V have an increased risk of heart attacks.

In the winter, it is impossible to get enough vitamin D from the sun. A little trick from space makes it hard for the sun’s ultraviolet B rays to get through the earth’s atmosphere. So now that it’s summertime, (at least in the Northern Hemisphere,) it’s time to stock up on our glow – carefully.

Spend a Few Minutes in Midday Sun Sans Sunscreen

You may have heard that skin cancer is on the rise. So why the heck would we tell you to stand in the sun without SPF? It’s tanning beds that is to blame for the rise in melanoma. In fact, some experts would tell you, (if you are fair skinned) to spend ten minutes in the midday sun in a tank top and shorts without sunscreen. This will give you enough radiation to produce “about 10,000 international units of vitamin D.” Too worried about burning? Start off slowly – first three minutes, then four, and so on – until you work your way up to ten. If you are elderly or dark-skinned, spend less time. You’ll get a nice, healthy glow and your necessary dose of vitamin D – just be sure to put the hat or sunscreen on after ten minutes.

Mix Up a Homemade Sun Protectant

Not ready to step out in the sun totally free of skin care product? You do need titanium dioxide and/or zinc to protect your skin from too much UVA/UVB rays, and these minerals make up the basis of most sunscreens. But you can spend your few minutes wearing a natural, homemade skin protectant. This oil will not act as a sunscreen, but it will support your skin’s own production of melanin. And its melanin which naturally protects your skin from the sun. Combine one tablespoon sesame oil, one tablespoon kukui seed oil, two tablespoons organic vitamin E, two drops of beta-carotene, and two drops of vitamin D. Mix together and apply to skin.

Now Pick a Non-Toxic Sunscreen

Okay, so you’ve shared your sunscreen-free skin with the sun for a few minutes. Now it’s time to cover up. Naturally, you want to pick a sunscreen that contains as little chemicals as possible. Beware of greenwashing in the sun care industry – a truly organic sunscreen is difficult, as sunscreens need titanium dioxide and zinc to protect your skin. These minerals cannot be classed as USDA organic because they are not grown. So you’re going to want your products to contain as many other organic ingredients as possible. Check out our comprehensive guides to eco-friendly face and body sunscreens here.

Mix Up a Mask of Glow

You’ve spent some time the sun, so now it’s time to naturally reward your skin. Take three tablespoons of organic honey. Carefully pulling your hair back from your face, slather your face with the organic honey for ten minutes. Wash it off with cold water. You may want to consider adding organic egg whites to the mix. Honey and eggs will moisturize and help brighten-up your face.

Choose a Natural Bronzer

Had enough sun for the day? Tarte has a great new product for summer to keep your skin a-glow. Check out Tarte’s Matte Waterproof Mineral Powder Bronze. This product is free of phthalates, parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate and synthetic dyes. It is also cruelty-free. How does it work? I powered it over my nose and cheeks and voila – instant glow. Hey, it beats bravely facing the sun with a timer in one hand and a hat in the other. (Which may or may not have been me, trying to get my ten minutes.)

Image: reebs*

It happens to all of us. You spend your teens and 20s running around without a skin care in the world. Rosy cheeks are the norm and crow’s feet are more Snow White than Betty White. Then it happens. After actually living a full life of sun and, well, living, you start to notice. As Dolly Parton says in Steel Magnolias, “Time marches on and it’s marching across your face.” Yep. It is.

And we love that! Obvs, due to the eco in EcoSalon, you’re not going to find tips for Botox or fillers here. I live in a town (cough cough Hollywood) where meeting an old friend for dinner can mean you’re suddenly staring down at their high school face. But this is one greenie who will never put a toxic chemical or needle near her face. So what I will do? Attempt to naturally address the dark spots – okay, age spots – that have been making themselves known on my face in recent years.

First, the facts. Dark spots are sometimes the result of too much sun and sometimes the result of hormonal changes. They can be caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, acne scarring, some antibiotics, certain diseases and more. Melanin is a key component in our skin’s defense from the sun. And dark spots are simply an excess of melanin in the skin.

Now, the tips. First, prevention. I will say it thrice for emphasis. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen, and sunscreen. Okay, four times. In case you’re wondering, here are some great recommendations for natural and/or organic sunscreen, for face and body.

Exfoliate at least twice a week. This will encourage new skin cells to the surface of the skin and help maintain a more radiant glow. Want great natural products? Yep, we have you covered there as well.

Next, start lightening. Juice an organic grapefruit two times a day. Using a clean cotton swap, smooth the juice all over your face. Grapefruit contains natural lightening properties.

Potatoes also have lightening agents in their juice. Cut a thin slice of organic potato every evening and rub it into your skin.

Dried oranges also make a great mask. One beauty expert suggests the following: “Dry orange peels in sun. When they are fully dried, grind them in a mixture and make powder. Add raw milk to it, make a paste and apply it on your skin every day. Rinse it off with lukewarm water when dries.”

Narine Nikogosian of “Return to Beauty” suggests a pigmentation mask best for oily skin: Mix one tablespoon of chopped parsley with one tablespoon of honey. Mix ingredients together. Apply to the affected area and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with cold water. If you have dry skin, substitute the honey with one tablespoon of sour cream.

Image: C.K.H

This week’s medical news comes with a heaping side order of mixed messages. Tanning is bad! (But you already knew that.) Sunscreen is also bad! There’s a lot of conflicting medical advice out there about sun exposure. My advice? PANIC.

Medicine and health writers make a living from informing readers about the innocuous, daily habits that are killing you right now. It’s their bread and butter. So it’s important to take alarmist headlines with a grain of salt. But not too much salt, because you’re already eating too much and it’s slowly killing your sodium-bloated body. You’ll know it’s working when you’re afraid of everything.

Proponents for increased Vitamin D intake like Dr. Mark Hyman of The Huffington Post claim that Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to “cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, depression – and multiple sclerosis.” The human body naturally produces Vitamin D during sunlight exposure, so those of us who slather on the sunscreen religiously are missing out, especially because the only food sources that provide Vitamin D are herring and cod liver oil. Eating herring is (probably) worse than skin cancer or rickets.

For those of you who live in places where sunning yourself outside isn’t possible about eight months out of the year (hello, Minnesota readers!), you might be tempted to build up your Vitamin D levels by visiting a tanning salon. You’ll also build up your melanoma levels, unfortunately; the American Association of Cancer Research links indoor tanning with a “74-percent higher risk of skin cancer.” Thanks for playing!

There’s no need to despair just yet, however: NYU dermatology professor Dr. Darrell Rigel claims many studies show that elevated levels of Vitamin D don’t make a difference. So stay in. Or go out. Or go out, but only swathed in white cotton and SPF 45. Or rub yourself down with cod liver oil and go tanning. Just stop getting your medical advice from the Internet, okay?

Image: Evil Erin

Beach-going with kids is a ton of fun, but it also takes a great deal of preparation and a lot of schlepping to get all of the necessary gear packed and toted to hit the waves with little ones. Summer is around the corner, and it’s time to get all of the green essentials lined-up so you and your kids can leave small footprints in the sand. Here’s a list of ten items that will help streamline your seaside excursion!

Badger Sunscreen

I personally use Badger SPF 30 sunscreen on my two-year-old, and in my opinion it’s the best sunscreen on the market. It contains certified organic, all natural ingredients, is safe for kids of all ages, and blocks both UVA and UVB rays. It goes on smooth, (requires some rubbing in), and my outdoor loving toddler has never had a sunburn as we use Badger all summer long. It’s $16 for a 2.9 oz tube.

Kate Quinn Organics Sun Hat

Even with sunscreen slathered on, the more you can get your child to wear a sun hat to shield against the sun, the better. This adorable Kate Quinn Organics sun hat is made with 100 percent organic French terry, provides great coverage and comes in a variety of colors and sizes for boys and girls of all ages. Priced at $18.

Bummies Swimmi Diapers

Ditch the disposable swim diapers and opt for eco-friendly Bummies Swimmi Diapers, which come in a plethora of cute patterns. These swim diapers are reusable, comfortable, and fit babies from 9-30 pounds. Bummies swim diapers cost around $15 per pair.

Green Toys Sand Play Set

Kids love playing in the sand and building castles, so equip your little architects with this Sand Play Set from Green Toys. Made from 100 percent recycled materials, the set includes a bucket, shovel, rake and sand castle mold. Directions on how to dig your way to China, not included. Priced at $19.99.

Organic Polka Dot Beach Dress

This sweet little 100 percent organic cotton polka dot beach dress ($38) will make your little girl the belle of the beach. It is lightweight, and soft and fluffy on the inside, so kids won’t overheat, and they’ll easily dry off after slipping it on. It also has a hood lined with interlock cotton to keep little noggins protected from the sun.

Recycled Board Short

It will be easy to spot your small surfer in these bright and colorful board shorts ($42). Made from 43 percent recycled polyester and featuring a mesh interior liner, little dudes will be doing their part to be green while riding the waves.

Kate Quinn Organics Terry Bikini

It is itsy-bitsy, and teenie-weenie, but it’s not a yellow polka dot bikini. Kate Quinn organics terry bikini ($36) is a grape and rose hued two-piece little number sized for babies 3-6 months to girls size 3T. It is made from 100 percent organic French terry cotton and has a halter tie at the top and bottom of the bikini top.

Kid Kanteen Sippy Cup

Keep kids well hydrated at the beach and anytime you’re on the go this summer with a Kid Kanteen sippy cup from Klean Kanteen. These cheery, perfectly sized for small hands reusable bottles are BPA-free, and totally non-toxic. Made from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, they have no questionable plastic, epoxy or aluminum liner to worry about. The Avent sippy cup spout is also BPA-free and enables kids to drink without worry of spills or messes. They are $17.95 for a 12 oz size.

Wide Insulated Klean Kanteen (for parents!)

Klean Kanteen’s new wide insulated stainless steel bottle will be every green parent’s new best friend. It’s double-walled construction and vacuum insulation keeps iced drinks cold for up to 24 hours, and hot drinks cold for up to 6 hours. No more having to toss a full mug of the freezing cold coffee or tea you got sidetracked from into the sink! Filler up with Klean Kanteen insulated and drink at your leisure. This bottle is perfect for beach jaunts because it will keep your drink refreshing and ice cold all day long. $22.95-$27.95

Organic cotton/bamboo beach towels

Let your kids wrap up a long day at the beach in a nice and soft organic cotton/bamboo super-sized beach towel. These vibrant towels feature festive Hawaii style floral patterns and are the perfect topper to a day at the shore. Priced at $39.

Image: Stevie Lee, Green Toys, Klean Kanteen