One of the most under-protected parts of your body when it comes to sun exposure, is your lips. I'm definitely guilty of applying lip gloss regularly, most without SPF, which is like a big UV magnet. Anyone willing to admit the same?

Let's face it once summer arrives, for us naturally curly haired girls, there is absolutely no use in trying to battle with what our hair naturally wants to do...which is to suck up the summer humidity and curl to its utmost content.  And why would you even want to spend precious time indoors trying to battle with your hair anyway when you could just wash, apply a bit of product and just go enjoy summer in all of its glory? I plan on spending most of my time at the pool or on the beach and the last thing I want to worry about while partaking in is frizzy straight hair that wants to go curly or weird, crunchy, "jheri curled" looking hair.  So in an effort to embrace my natural texture but still have soft, smooth curls, I decided to give Miss Jessie's Jelly Soft Curls a try. First of all I went weak in the knees by the scent of this product.  I am a huge fan of clean, fresh scents...especially during the warmer months and this product has the most amazing clean, fresh but still feminine scent--exactly how I would want my hair to smell...all of the time!  I followed the suggested application process, which stated that I should squeeze a quarter size of Jelly Soft Curls into my palms and apply it section to a section of my damp (not wet) curls.  I loved that this styling gel never felt sticky or tacky in my palms during the application process.  I actually took a gamble with this product using it a few hours before a photo shoot and I was ecstatic with the results.  For the shoot I had curls that were bouncy, shiny, soft and full of movement.  My curls never went limp or got crunchy and frizzy.  This was my first time trying Miss Jessie's products and I am definitely a fan and cannot wait to try a few of her other products.  Needless to say I shall be embracing and reveling in my natural curls all summer long!

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! *Disclosure

One of the many reasons I love living in the Poconos, is that there are a variety of things to do. Since the area is a popular tourist attraction, especially now that the Jersey Shore is still being rebuilt, there's not too much you CAN'T do in Northeast PA. Back in 1998, Mount Airy Lodge was the location chosen for my honeymoon with my first marriage. Unfortunately it did not live up to expectations when it came to cleanliness, activities and overall impressiveness (and I'm sure my ex-husband would agree.) Soon the Lodge became an eyesore and an undesirable place until the DeNaples family were given a gaming license and completely demolished the old Mount Airy Lodge and crafted an amazing luxury experience that is now Mount Airy Casino Resort. The transformation is amazing. The resort is continuing to transform as it adds outdoor cabanas and a pool to their luxury spa. I recently had the opportunity to stay for a weekend with my fiance. This is my review:  Mount Airy Casino Hotel: The hotel at Mount Airy Casino is stunning. As soon as you walk into this AAA Four Diamond Award hotel, the air smells of vanilla. I loved it because casinos and the smell of cigarette smoke typically go hand and hand. This was refreshing, especially seeing that the casino entrance was just above check-in. There is an elegant waterfall feature in the center of the lobby with sparkling blue lights to illuminate the water and a seating area to the left and right. On the right hand side there is this amazing art design of fire, giving the illusion of a roaring fireplace. Just down the hall from the hotel elevator is the entrance to the spa. We stayed on the 5th floor and our room had a gorgeous view of the 18-hole championship golf course across the street. Even when laying on the posh bedding, you could still see the hillside of lush greenery and the well-maintained course. All rooms are non-smoking, although that didn't keep the person staying in the room next to us from smoking in the hallway. The rooms are spacious and the bathroom was luxe. It was very quiet with the exception of a few enthusiastic guests in the middle of the night discussing their winnings in the casino as they strode down our hallway. If you place the do not disturb sign outside your room during the day, housekeeping respects your privacy and won't come in. They do leave a note hanging on your door that if you want them to come back, they will.

Le Sorelle Cucina: This is Mount Airy Casino's luxury Italian Restaurant. It only opens at 5pm and requires a reservation.  The interior design and artwork depict the DeNaples mother and sister's in paintings, as well as the DeNaples family crest. The DeNaples name may come with a bit of controversy in our area, however, you can't help but appreciate the warm, friendly and family atmosphere of Le Sorelle Cucina. A variety of warm rolls and drinks are served immediately, appetizers (Insalta Caprese and Roasted Beet Salad) came out about 20 minutes later and dinner arrived approximately 1 hour after being seated (Chicken Parmesan and Pan Seared Day Boat Scallops). The food was out of this world and delicious. The serving size was generous. However, it did seem the 40 minute wait from when we received our appetizers (which only took 5-10 minutes to eat) until dinner was served was a little too long. We had two waiters, who were very friendly and attentive throughout our meal. Betty's Diner: This is Mount Airy Casino's 50's style diner. It has a jukebox playing duwop (and a lot of Cher) at the front of the restaurant, as well as a poster-sized picture of the old Mount Airy Lodge. The photo is a reminder of the stark contrast of old and new. The diner is open 24 hours and is affordable to most guests. We ate breakfast here, which was delicious with an attentive waitress, but food here also took a while to receive (although less time than Le Sorelle.) Portion size is good and we left feeling full. Red Steakhouse: This luxury steakhouse has an incredibly decadent feel to it. Upon entering, there is a piano to the right of you with live entertainment on Friday's and Saturday's that can be heard throughout the restaurant. Since Red Steakhouse and Le Sorelle Cucina are adjacent to each other, they share a lobby with a bar separating the two. While both restaurants themselves are completely separated, there is this amazing 10-person room, with frosted glass doors on either side that can be reserved, in the back center of the restaurants. Guests who reserve it, can choose from the menu of either restaurant. Additionally, there is another private room off to the back right that has a curtain that can be used to make the room more private. There was a bachelorette party going on in this room while we dined there. (Bachelorette parties were a common theme during our stay with many happy brides-to-be on the casino floor, and hosting private parties in the hotel rooms.) Dinner begins with warm rolls, butter and a hummus red pepper spread. My fiance ordered the Classic Cesar Salad as an appetizer, but I chose to skip an appetizer here. The steakhouse was very busy on the evening we ate there and it took 1 hour 15 minutes from the time we sat down and ordered until we received our meal, while we had two people waiting on us, only one was really attentive. We both ordered Filet Mignon, which was mouthwatering and cooked to perfection. I had a side of asparagus (delicious!), baked potato (literally the largest potato I have ever seen) and roasted wild mushrooms (out of this world in a sauce that tasted almost sweet and cinnamony.) He chose to get steak fries as his side, which paralleled the size of my baked potato. For dessert, he chose the cheese cake and I had the chocolate mousse pyramid. Both desserts were decadent. The resort has other places to eat as well, such as the Noodle Bar, Starbucks and the Buffet. So you are not without options for the type of food or price range. Spa & Salon: My favorite place of all (of course!) The spa and salon is open to both resort guests and non-guests. The first level of the spa consists of a boutique, hair and nail salon and top of the line fitness center. You take the elevator to the bottom level where you'll find a gorgeous waiting room with a water feature, the steamroom, sauna, changing rooms, showers, bathrooms and women's lounge. The air is scented and you feel immediately relaxed.

I chose the Bamboo Massage with Allison. I was in heaven with the amount of pressure Allison used (medium to deep), as my neck and upper back are always in constant pain from working at my desk all day. You are given the option to include aromatherapy into your massage and I chose Purification, which is an oil from Young Living. First Allison uses her hands to massage one quadrant of your body, then repeats the massage using bamboo sticks. The ends of the bamboo sticks are covered with fabric so that it doesn't hurt you. The bamboo provides a much stronger and deeper massage than Allison does manually. She was very accommodating when it came  using a lighter pressure for a few sensitive spots (like my neck and the underside of my knee.) This type of spa treatment is definitely for those who do like a stronger, more aggressive massage. (Which I do.) I would definitely return in the future and request Allison for another massage!

Mount Airy offers a variety of spa treatments, some unique and some traditional. 18-hole Golf Course:

Just across from the hotel and casino are the stunning grounds of the Mount Airy golf course. While my fiance loves to play golf, it was only my second time hitting the links. On this particular day, there was a charity golf event scheduled in the afternoon, so guests and non-guests were trying to squeeze in a round of golf prior to kick off. (That included us.) This meant that due to so many people on the course, that we had to be paired up with another party. While the guys we were paired with were nice and understanding of my lack of skills, they were far more advanced than either my fiance or I. This proved to be frustrating for us in the beginning because we had a hard time keeping up. (They'd hit 4 on a par 4...I'd hit 8 on a par 4.) By the third hole, management came by in their golf cart and told us that the line was backing up waiting to play and that there was a 2-hole gap ahead of our party. We were told that if we couldn't hit the right pars designated for each hole, then we'd have to pick up our balls and just let the guys we were paired with play through. While we understood why we were told this, it still didn't make it feel any less unpleasant. We asked the guys we were paired up with if this was usual for this golf course (as they said they've played here many times before) and they said that on weekends it is, but the same holds true for other golf courses in the area as well and wasn't just specifically Mount Airy. We chose to skip a hole or two (we only played 9 holes) so that the guys could play through and we didn't back up others waiting to come onto the course. Once we had no one visibly behind us or ahead of us, we chose to let the guys play on their own, and we went at our own pace. Golf, to me, should be relaxing and fun, and certainly not rushed. Aside from this, I have to say that Mount Airy's golf course is fun, challenging and absolutely gorgeous and well-kept. The views are also spectacular. At one point there was a small pond aside a hole that had huge bass in it! You could see their huge shadows from atop the hill. At another hole there were mother and father geese with their new babies waddling by a pond. I liked that this course wasn't predictable, but also appreciate that it isn't for a beginner like myself! It was probably by the 7th hole that I felt more "warmed up" to the clubs I was using and began to really hit the ball far down onto the green. My fiance had a great time as well, which is making me consider giving him a round of golf here for Father's Day. Casino: While neither my fiance or I gamble, we did marvel at how large the casino floor was. Gaming tables are in the center with slots surrounding them on all sides. There are also high value slots in their own room, as well as high playing tables in their own rooms as well. One side of the casino allows smoking and the side closest to the restaurants do not. The air does not smell of cigarettes though, which is great for a non-smoker like myself. There is also a nightclub here as well called Gypsies, and entertainment galore every weekend. Mount Airy also is a great place to hold indoor and outdoor weddings, as well as the reception. The outdoor space is alongside the large pond adjacent to the golf course. I can only image how beautiful this must be! If weather is not accommodating, they have ample space indoors to hold the wedding as well. On the day we were leaving it was raining and they were setting up for an indoor wedding. I was hoping I would've caught a glimpse of the bride! All in all, it was a great weekend at Mount Airy Casino even despite a few hiccups. I would definitely recommend booking a weekend here, or if you live locally as I do, checking out the spa, golf, casino and nightlife. For all upcoming events and casino/hotel details see www.mountairycasino.com. Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! *Disclosure: This review was made possible by a media trip.

No summer beauty routine is complete without the incorporation of a great sunscreen.  Which for me means one with at least an SPF of 30, one that isn't greasy feeling and oily looking and one that does not leave my skin looking chalky.  And I've found my perfect sunscreen for summer just in time for a Memorial Day weekend teeming with outdoor activities. MD Solar Sciences Mineral Creme SPF 50 Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB Sunscreen is the perfect combination of natural, lightweight, matte with an SPF of 50 and is pretty much invisible on skin with the exception of a really pretty glow.  The Mineral Creme rubs in quickly and easily and best of all I can't even feel it on my skin...even after reapplying it my skin never felt greasy or clogged. This is absolutely the best sunscreen for my face.  In the summer my skin is more prone to breakouts than at any other time of the year and MD Solar Sciences Mineral Creme SPF is specifically formulated for acne prone skin.  Besides feeling and looking amazing on my skin, this sunscreen also contains antioxidants, naturally derived Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide and does not contain parabens, allergens, gluten, fragrance or irritants.   Aesthetically, I just love the packaging of this sunscreen with its pink tube with the lime green cap; it just screams summer.  For me this sunscreen had absolutely no cons and I am elated that I found the perfect sunscreen to use all year round! (Shannon also did a review of their Mineral Lotion SPF 50.) Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! *Disclosure

Wishing for a spa getaway? To feel royally pampered in preparation for the summer months, therapists at the legendary Turnberry Isle Miami and its Forbes-rated Four Star Spa & Fitness Center suggest these at-home treatments using natural ingredients for those times when you can't make it into the spa: Mommy-to-Be Body Scrub – Helps with skin hydration and exfoliation. Ingredients: - ½ cup of oatmeal - 1 cup of yogurt Directions: Mix the oatmeal and yogurt together in a bowl. Use your hands to massage the scrub onto your skin in a circular motion. Coffee & Coconut Oil Booster – Activates circulation, rids cellulite and helps remove dead skin cells. Ingredients:  - ½ cup of coffee powder - 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (olive oil can be used instead) Directions: Mix the coffee powder and oil in a bowl. Use hands to massage mixture in a circular motion. Sunburn Solution – Great for sensitive skin. Ingredients: - 2 bananas - 3 tablespoons of honey - ¼ cup of cold milk - blender Directions: Mix the bananas, honey and milk in a blender. Apply to the mixture to skin and wait 10 minutes until rinsing. Apple Toner - Exfoliates and calms normal / combination skin. Ingredients: - 1 skinless apple - ½ cup of cold water - blender Directions: Mix the apple and water in the blender until it becomes very thin. Using cotton, apply to face. Have you tried any of these natural DIY spa treatments yourself? Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

As you may have read, I was diagnosed with Melanoma just a couple of years ago. Life after Melanoma requires a lot more preparation when spending time out in the sun and while I was once a sporadic sunscreen user, I am now a faithful daily user.

Something I’ve learned over the past few years of trying almost every sunscreen available … they are NOT all made the same! They come in a variety of forms, apply and protect differently, and most of all feel different.

I may be jumping the gun here, but I already started online shopping for our honeymoon in October and sunscreen was top of the list.  Being prepared for nice weather and vacation means my sunscreen and sun safety product arsenal gets restocked.

As I was doing some shopping for the honeymoon, I added Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunscreen SPF 70+ ($15) to my shopping cart. I’ve heard a lot of good things about Sun Bum and a friend of mine swears that it’s the only sunscreen she’s ever used that doesn’t feel like a thick film coating her body. I’ve been dying to try it! 

When it comes to SPF, I always reach for the higher numbers. No matter what level SPF you choose, it's important to keep in mind that you still need to reapply regularly.

The one thing that bothers me about reapplying sunscreen is that by the end of the day, I typically feel like I am coated in guck. I'm thrilled to report that using Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunsreen SPF 70+ left behind no guck, no coating, and no sticky film. AMEN!

This can is a winner and at $15, you're getting a superior product that won't break the bank. I’ve been using it daily and my first impression was a lasting one … I literally said aloud “Ahhhh, it’s light!” I absolutely LOVE how light this formula is. It’s not sticky or filmy, and it applies clear. That is one of my favorite things about it.

It applies clear and it absorbs into your skin with one stroke of your hand. Unlike many other sunscreens, it doesn’t spray on as white streaks that need to be rubbed in. Not only is that a time saver, but it looks and feels better too.

Have you ever used a sunscreen that applied white and left your skin looking milky and painted on? Those just aren't the kind of sunscreens you can wear day to day. Sun Bum is the kind of sunscreen you can (and I have been) literally wear daily, anywhere, and you don’t even realize you have it on.

With other sunscreens, I've been hesitant to wear nice clothing while wearing it because I didn’t want to ruin my clothes, this ultra waterproof and sweat proof light formula is a dream for everyday use.

It’s also a great pick if you’re active outdoors in the summer or vacationing. This is an everyday sunscreen you an apply over your regular moisturizer and not develop a thick film. It applies perfectly clear, feels light, and the scent is gentle and pleasant…kind of vacation-y.

And if my friendly nod of approval and adoration isn’t enough …  here’s a super important seal of approval. Sun Bum Sunscreen is tested, approved and recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation, you can be assured you’re getting the best in skincare.

So far, I only got my hands on Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunscreen, (which is available in SPF 15+, 30+, 50+, and 70+) but Sun Bum products are available in a variety of forms.

I already have my eyes on the Sun Bum Face Stick. Considering how effortless and light the spray sunscreen is, I can only imagine how perfect the face stick is going to be!

Sun Bum products are:

• Paraben Free
• Oil Free
• Hypoallergenic
• Won’t Clog Pores
• Anti Aging
• Photostable

If you’re looking for a day to day sunscreen that easy and light, I highly recommend giving Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunscreen a try. If you’re new to spray sunscreen – hold the can 4-6 inches away and spray! Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunscreen mists on and rubs in with one swipe. It is THAT light.

Continuous spray means it’ll keep coming until you’re done spraying! This can sprays with ease and allows you to use all the sunscreen you want with one long spray!  

Speaking of using all of the sunscreen you want, did you know the average person only uses 1/4th of the amount of sunscreen they need/should? Apply liberally friends! Practice safe sun!

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

*Disclosure

When Spry Living Magazine asked me if myself and two A Girl's Gotta Spa! bloggers would be interested in making over our moms, we didn't hesitate to say yes. Myself, Ashley and Hillary all participated in Spry Living's Take Year's Off Your Looks Instantly (web and print) story and Making Over Mom with tips. Each of our moms had challenges that prevented them from updating their look. My mom had hair loss/thinning hair, sagging skin, etc. all related to bariatric surgery she had two years ago. Ashley's mom has nerve damage and a disability when it comes to the use of her arm. Hillary's mom was nervous since losing all of her hair so long ago (but it has since grown back.) From skin care to hair care to makeup, here's the breakdown of the products used to transformed our moms. Paula (my mom): Thank you to Maureen Barnes, Katie Dietrich and George Serrano-Velez at Breathe Salon and Day Spa Hair: L'Oreal Professional Texture Expert Densite Thickening Primer Fine Hair Primer: Hard Candy Sheer Envy and on eyes Cover FX Anti-Age Smoothing Eye Primer Anti-aging products: Murad Sheer Lustre Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 15, then Freeze 24-7 Instant Targeted Wrinkle Treatment, Anti-Aging Eye Serum, and ArcticLift Firming Neck Cream. Brows: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Ombre Camel eye shadow duo Foundation: a mix of 810 and 825 of CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation Concealer: Ben Nye Powder: itcosmetics Anti-Aging Radiance Pressed Illuminating Powder Blush: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Universal Blush Eye Shadow: MAC Paint Pot Chilled on Ice, Smashbox Photo Op Enhancing Eye Palette in Softbox and Mirabella Cosmetics Mascara: L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara Lips: MAC Boldly Bare lip pencil and mark Coral Fixation Clothes: JCPenney Read my mom's story: A New Look For A New Body Beth (Ashley's mom): Thank you to Maureen Barnes and David Van Guilder at Breathe Salon and Day Spa. Ashley did her mom's makeup for this makeover! Primer: Hard Candy Sheer Envy and on eyes Cover FX Anti-Age Smoothing Eye Primer Anti-aging products: Freeze 24-7 Instant Targeted Wrinkle Treatment, Anti-Aging Eye Serum, and ArcticLift Firming Neck Cream. Brows: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Ombre Camel eye shadow duo Foundation: 810 CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation mixed with MAC N30 Concealer: Ben Nye Powder: itcosmetics Anti-Aging Radiance Pressed Illuminating Powder Blush: MAC Bite of an Apple Eye Shadow: MAC Paint Pot Chilled on Ice, Smashbox Photo Op Enhancing Eye Palettes Smokebox and Softbox Mascara: Maybelline Mega Plush Eyeliner: Maybelline Line Express in Soft Black Highlighter: CoverGirl Champagne eye shadow Bronzer: Sephora Aruba Lips: MAC Boldly Bare lip pencil and Bare Escentuals Buxom in Sugar Clothes and accessories: JCPenney Read Beth's story: Pain-Free Beauty Sue (Hillary's Mom): Hair Color:  L'Oreal Feria Soft Black Hair Treatments & Styling: Joico K-Pak, Moroccan Oil, Rusk w8less plus Hairspray Face: Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream Lips: L'Oreal Rouge Absolut Lipstick in Creme de Maron Nails: Julep Freedom Top coat, China Glaze Keep Calm and Paint On mint Green Clothes: Willi Smith at TJMaxx Read Sue's story: From Comfy to Chic Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! *affiliate links

I wish I could express the intense fear I felt the day I found out I had Melanoma. That feeling along with the waiting and uncertainty alone has changed my life forever and made me wish 1,000 times that I’d done a few things differently just a couple years ago. (Starting with covering up at the beach!)

That fear is also something that I am certain would change you too. Instead od dedicating one month of the year to Skin Cancer Awareness, it's something we should be vigilant about throughout the year. 

Sun safety goes beyond just SPF, but should include UPF, too. I discovered a really cute and wearable line of sun protective clothing that I am so excited about! Had I known then what I know now, I would have taken sun safety a lot more seriously.

Life after Melanoma has been about educating myself and others, finding every way possible to protect myself from the dangers of the sun, and the hardest part … getting over my fear of spending time outdoors. (Yeah, there was actually a period of time where I was afraid to commit to attending outdoor events.)

When I first attempted to shop for sun protective clothing a few years ago, my search came up short. I couldn’t find anything a 20-something year old would want to be seen in and just because I want to protect my skin doesn’t mean I want to look drab!

The thought of spending extended periods of time outdoors first felt terrifying. I was afraid to be in the sun and felt like there was nothing I could do to cover up enough to enjoy daylight.

Thankfully, with time and information, I’ve adjusted to taking proper precautions to protect my skin from the sun and I am now beyond THRILLED to have stumbled upon Mott 50, a line of super cute sun protective clothing and accessories.

These pieces are life savers … literally. If you’ve ever tried to shop for sun protective clothing in the past you know that the selection is usually sad and frumpy. What about the fashionista that wants to cover up?  That’s what the gals who started Mott 50 were thinking when they started the line!

Sun safety isn’t just about preventing skin cancer (which by the way is the most common form of cancer in the U.S.) … it’s also about preventing premature aging like wrinkles and sun spots. Nice skin is what’s in.

Mott 50 is a new line of fashion that offers sun protective clothing, with UPF  in every garment. UPF  = ultraviolet protection factor. UPF indicates how much of the sun’s UV rays are absorbed by the fabric before it reaches your skin.

A UPF rating of 50 means that only 1/50th (or 1 %) of the UV radiation (both UVA and UVB rays) can penetrate fabric, thus indicating how effective the clothing is from blocking UV rays. Pretty cool, huh?

Dermatologists rank sun protective clothing as the #1 way to successfully block the sun’s harmful rays, proving to be even more effective than sunscreen.  Mott 50 is finally a place where fashion meets function!

The pieces are stylish, easy-to-wear, super cute and are 50 UPF. If you’re wondering what makes Mott 50’s clothing different from regular clothes and gives it a higher UPF, I did some research! 

It’s the tightness of the weave and low porosity of the fabrics Mott 50 uses in their line create a higher UPF in these garments than in typical clothing. In comparison to regular clothing … the average white t-shirt has a UPF of just 5.

There are an array of cute and fashionable pieces available from Mott 50 with 50 UVF! I’m not a model, but I wanted you to see how fabulous these pieces are. I’m a huge fan of the Girandella Infinity Scarf ($68) because you can wear it a few different ways.

I’m wearing it in toast/white stripes. It’s made in the USA … you can throw this lightweight shawl in your tote and wear it as a scarf or a shawl as a cover up. It is so soft! (Contents: 92% Rayon Soft Spin Bamboo/8%Spandex)

If you’re a beach-goer or spend a lot of time outside in the summer, this piece is one of Mott 50’s best sellers. The Santa Cruz swim dress ($115) can be worn like a dress cover up or cinched up on the sides as a top. I’m wearing shark grey, (I like neutrals that go with a lot because I get to wear them more often) but it comes in a bunch of gorgeous colors.

Certified with 50 UPF, every lady who spends time outdoors in a bathing suit should have this piece in her closet. The fabric is breathable and dries REALLY quickly. It also has a nice amount of stretch to it.

Wearing Mott 50 allows me the ability to spend time outdoors without worrying like crazy. That is such a relief. While the harmful UV rays penetrate regular clothing, Mott 50 apparel blocks the suns rays in a fashionable way. Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer over the course of a lifetime?

Some cases can we dealt with at the dermatologists office, others take lives and when they do, it happens very fast. In the past 40 years, Melanoma (the most aggressive and deadliest form of skin cancer) has risen 800% among young women age 25-29.

Mott 50 got my stamp of approval, but they got a huge nod from the Skin Cancer Foundation, earning their seal of approval! To achieve the seal, all of the fabrics had to be tested, certified and reviewed by them before gaining the seal of recommendation.

*press sample

As the summer season is finally upon us, Josie Feria, Director of Lapis Spa at Fontainebleau, shows you how to bring luscious Lapis Spa treatments home and get rid of dry, unseen skin just in time for the warmer weather! Pre-Summer Body Exfoliation Simulates Spalicious Body Scrub Skin softening natural all body exfoliating treatment

• Ingredients:  ½ cup olive oil, ¾ cup fine sea salt and drops of your favorite aromatherapy oil. Keep in mind the oil selected should be specific to treatment goal – citrus is energizing – lavender relaxing – peppermint stimulating
• Place all items in a bowl and blend together
• Next, step into the shower and moisten the body – apply the blend by hand in circular motion or for increased exfoliation apply with loofah mitt or body brush
• Rinse off thoroughly.  Skin will feel smooth and soft and supple. For further hydration apply body lotion directly to moist skin

Pre-Summer Facial for Extra Dry Skin Skin softening avocado mask for combination or dry skin

• Ingredients:  ½ avocado, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.

The avocado and coconut oils work as an instant skin softener as the baking soda works as a mild exfoliator

• Place all items in bowl and blend well together
• Apply the mixture to your face and leave on for 10-15 minutes
• Rinse off with warm water

Foot Scrub for Dry Feet and Heels Simulates Foot Rehab Pedicure

• Begin by soaking feet in ¼ cup baking soda to reduce inflammation and cleanse feet thoroughly for 10 minutes
• Using a wet pumice stone rub heels thoroughly yet gently to remove dry callous
• Next, apply coconut oil to feet
• Finally, wrap feet in plastic and cover with soft socks for 30 minutes. The plastic and warmth will help the oil to soften the skin.

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

If you are local here in Northeast PA, then you may be aware that our very own Amanda, a DJ on 98.5KRZ, is a melanoma survivor. Amanda is a vibrant personality who is the picture of health. However, at the young age of 25, Amanda noticed something unusual about her skin that led her to obtain a shocking diagnosis: Melanoma cancer.

Since May is Melanoma Awareness Month, I recently interviewed Amanda to find out how she discovered the abnormality and what she is doing now to protect herself from skin cancer.

Q: How old were you when you first noticed that something wasn't right about your skin?

I was 24 when I first noticed what I called a “mark” on my breast. I didn’t call it a mole at first because it was just a dot and it had just recently appeared. (Or at least I had just noticed it was there.) It was something I noticed one day when I got out of the shower and ignored for a few months until I saw that it had changed.

Q: Can you describe what Melanoma looked like?

When I first noticed the “mark” in question, it was a small dark dot. Almost like the tip of a black Sharpie marker. A few months later, it was a larger dark dot that now had a brownish rim around it. The dark center had a faded brown rim with uneven edges that almost looked smeared.

At this point, it was the size of a pencil eraser. I showed a friend and continued to show her every couple of weeks so that she could tell me whether or not she thought it was changing. I didn’t want to overreact about it, but at the same time I kept reminding myself that I didn’t remember ever seeing it there before.

I kept saying that and that gut feeling is what ended up saving my life. I knew that “dot” was turning into a growing, darker mole, was not there before.

Q: Prior to this point, would you say you had a good handle on understanding what Melanoma was?

NOT AT ALL. Actually, I didn’t even really know what Melanoma was or how serious is it. I knew enough about skin cancer to know that it was a red flag to have a mole that is changing, which is the only reason I ended up addressing the mole with my doctor.

Q: Leading up to this, had you been wearing sunscreen on a regular basis?

 No, but I also wasn’t a sun worshiper. Sunscreen was one of those things I would apply if I remembered to, but it wasn’t a priority. I always felt some level of heat exhaustion when I was out in the sun, so I never stayed out in it long in the first place. But before Melanoma, hats were a fashion accessory, not a sun safety must.

Q: Had you ever used a tanning bed or had multiple sunburns?

I have to admit, as much as I wish I never had, I did use tanning beds, but not regularly. If I had to guess, I’d say I probably used a tanning bed between 20-30 times in my life. Just a few times before special occasions to "get a base."

It sounds so stupid now, but I either didn’t know better or didn’t care. Had I known the fear I would feel just a few years later, I would have never directly put myself in that kind of danger.  As far as sunburns go, I grew up in New England and spent some time at the beach growing up, so I’m sure I had a few sunburns, but I can’t recall anything significant. (It only takes 6 sunburns in your lifetime to put you at risk for skin cancer.)

Q: How long did you wait until you asked a medical professional about it?

I waited far too long to show a doctor. Silly me, time was ticking. It was about 6 or 7 months from when I first noticed the “dot” until the “dot” grew into a dark weird shaped mole. Still then, I watched it.

It continued to grow and look funnier for a few months. I continued to show a friend who is very active with the American Cancer Society and her reaction is what made me finally realize I needed to say something.

I didn’t actually see a doctor about it until almost a year after I first noticed that something was up. For anyone reading this who is questioning a mole - PLEASE DO NOT WAIT! Waiting was extremely stupid, but I wasn’t educated enough to know I was allowing the cancer time to spread.

Q: Once you saw a doctor, what happened next?

I first showed my gynecologist because the mole I was watching was on my breast and because I wasn’t sure it was something to worry about, I waited until my yearly check up. It was very dumb to wait for it to be convenient to get it checked out, but my appointment was coming up and I just figured that would be a good time to show the doctor.

When I showed her what I was worried about, she got serious. She told me I needed to call a dermatologist the moment I left her office and tell them that my doctor said I needed to be seen immediately. I wasn’t expecting the urgency; probably because I didn’t have the slightest clue how fast Melanoma spreads or how serious it is. (While my gynecologist doesn’t know skin as well as a dermatologist, since my experience, she has made an extra effort to check her patients for suspicious looking moles in private areas that primary doctors don’t typically see.)

I called the dermatologist (I was a new patient, I didn’t have any reason to see a derm before) and scheduled an appointment. Next thing I knew, I was having 3 moles removed for biopsy. The one on my breast was the only one I knew about and was worried about. Little did I know, there were 2 more pre-cancerous moles living on me. One was on my back, the second on my other breast. The suspicious mole on my right breast actually was Melanoma.

When my dermatologist first called, I was on the air and told him I couldn’t talk. We were in the middle of our show and to be honest, I wasn’t expecting him to say anything bad. He said he’d stay a little late that night to call me back and give me the news when I got off the air.

When he called again an hour later, he told me that a team of experts reviewed my case and diagnosed me with Melanoma. He then said I would be requiring another surgery immediately. My eyes filled with tears, but to be completely honest, I wasn’t really sure what Melanoma even was.

He told me that my oncologist would be calling in the morning to schedule the surgery because they feared that the cancer may have already begun to spread to my lymph nodes. Wait, I need an oncologist?  Isn’t that a cancer doctor? So for anyone who are under the impression that it’s “just skin cancer, they can just scrape it off,” that is very far from reality and that has become a statement that will throw me right into sun safety preach-mode.

He told me not to go home and Google or look it up on Web MD because the information is very scary. Of course, that’s exactly what I did. To say that I was scared out of my mind doesn’t even begin to describe what I was feeling. I felt dumb. Why did I wait so long to see the doctor? Did I do this to myself?

The surgery was painful. I am sharing these details with hopes that it will reach someone and change the way they think about their time spent in the sun. I don’t wish this experience on anyone, but I am grateful to have caught it in time to warn others.

In order to find which lymph nodes the cancer would likely spread to, I was brought down to the radioactive medicine department and had a radioactive tracer dye injected direction into my areola. (The mole site was nearby.)

I was told this lymph scan with dye is the same scan that breast cancer patients also receive before surgery. To say that the dye stung is a gross understatement. I laid there on a cold metal table surrounded by doctors, weeping. It burned. The injection site and my whole chest burned like it was on fire.

They injected this dye 5 separate times. Wearing a thin paper robe, naked from the stomach up, sobbing on a cold metal table. I laid there for an hour while the machine showed the doctors where to operate and which lymph nodes to remove. I’ve read that this is often done while under general anesthesia, but for me it was not and it was extremely painful. The gist – this is not fun.

Later that day, they put me under and they removed a bunch of lymph nodes (sentinel lymph node biopsy) from under my right arm. In addition to the lymphadenectomy, my surgical oncologist also did a wide local excision of the mole site and the surrounding area. They cut and scooped a 4 inch area on my breast to get all of the infected cancer cells out.

The doctors said it looked like the cancer had just begun to spread to my lymph system, but we literally caught it “just in time” before it got any further. Of course, we didn’t get this news until 1.5 weeks AFTER the surgery.

Telling this story back now loses some intensity because it lacks the time spent worrying in between appointments. The waiting was the worst part. There are weeks in between biopsies that you have absolutely no idea what you’re facing. All you can do is wonder. Is it that bad? Am I catching it in time? Will I have a chance to fight it?

While recovering at home and waiting for the results from this surgery, I daydreamed about my future with my then boyfriend, now husband. I wondered if we’d even have a chance to live the life we dreamed of together (update: we are now married with two beautiful girls.)

My mom was also wonderfully supportive through all of this (especially the waiting) and often reminded me not to worry until there was something to worry about. I was blessed with a chance to tell you what I went through because thankfully, we caught it just in time.

What I learned from this that I hope you take with you, is to know your body. I essentially caught this myself. Melanoma is the fastest spreading skin cancer and the deadliest. It spreads so fast that waiting to get something checked out can cost you your life.

Q: How has Melanoma changed the way you spend your time outdoors and sun safety in general?

Melanoma has changed everything about the way I spend time outdoors. I don’t just hang out outdoors. I go out and live a normal social life, but I take extra steps to make sure I’m prepared to protect myself. I use sunscreen like a regular moisturizer. ALL THE TIME. I’m obsessed with protecting my skin from the sun and I now feel like it’s my duty to educate others about sun safety.

I don’t go to the beach and hang out. I don’t spend long periods of time out in the sun and I don’t drive around during peak hours with my sun roof open. Work wise, I work in radio and we often do live broadcasts outdoors at concerts. Before Melanoma, you would likely find me bopping around all over the place, now you’ll find me under the tent.

My first vacation after Melanoma was terrifying. I was scared to be outside, but realized I also can’t stop living. I went armed with sunscreen, hats and cover-ups. I no longer look at hats as just fashion accessories, but as MUSTS that also happen to be cute. Melanoma is not going to stop me from looking cute, but I am going to embrace being pale.

I try every new sunscreen that hits shelves and have found some favorites that also give a nice glow and even shimmer. The main thing is that now I’m using it! I also wear sunglasses every day. While they are also cute fashion accessories, Melanoma can also form on your eyes and they need to be protected too. I keep a pair of sunglasses on me at all times.

My experience with Melanoma has left me with an overall sense of paranoia about my own skin that I like to just call awareness. I constantly check myself for new “marks” (I still call them that) and even take pictures of moles that I think may be changing. Sometimes I start to convince myself something doesn’t look right because it’s a fear, but that fear stems from learning how serious Melanoma is.

Since my surgery, I have had a few scares and other procedures done. For a 6 month span, I had MRI’s done on my brain because there was fear that the Melanoma had spread there. I also had another mole removed from a very private place that NEVER sees sun. I literally mean NEVER. I also found this myself. Again, I caught this in time before it spread.  

This was another frightening reminder that this is going to be a never ending battle with the sun and with my own paranoia and fear of not catching it in time, next time. My current struggle is with trying to find a balance between awareness and living in a constant state of fear.

Q: What key piece of advice do you want readers to know about Melanoma?

The one thing I hope readers take away is that Melanoma is not a beast you want to fight and a worry you want to have. KNOW YOUR BODY. Do a monthly skin check and know what moles already exist and what they look like. Taking pictures helps.

If you start to worry something is changing, measure it. One thing I try to stress to my friends and family is that you have to be your own finder; your doctor doesn’t see you enough to notice small moles that may change. Know your body, know when it’s changing, and speak up when something doesn’t look right! You could save your own life.

Melanoma is the second most common cancer in women between the ages of 20 and 35, and the leading cause of cancer death in women ages 25 to 30.

Early signs of melanoma are changes to the shape or color of existing moles or the appearance of a new mole. They are often referred to as the ABCDE’s of Melanoma.

• Asymmetry

• Borders (irregular)

• Color (variegated)

• Diameter (greater than 6 mm (0.24 in), about the size of a pencil eraser)

• Evolving over time

If it looks suspcious - schedule an appointment right away with your dr!