If you're planning on taking a summer trip to New Orleans, Jamaica or any other gorgeous but humid destination, you absolutely need to check out our Top 5 tips to looking fabulous amidst the unbearable sun.

Play Tress Up: Your pretty little press n’ curl won’t stand a chance during an extremely humid vacation. Instead, opt for a style that stays put like a wavy sew-in, braided ‘do or slick ponytail. Make sure to get styles that you can pull up and off of your neck, or medium-length styles that leave your neck bare. Even naturals take a beating during extreme weather conditions, so consider funky headbands to pull you curls back or maybe a fun Mohawk or pompadour.

Sun Shade: You can protect your skin and look flawless at the same time. Pick up a dry oil body shimmer with SPF for a bronzed appearance that also protects you from the damaging effects of the sun.

Cool Breeze: Start your day off with a tingling rush. Pack a great peppermint-infused soap or tea tree wash to use in the shower. The effervescent feeling is perfect to jumpstart your day and help you cool off during a much deserved evening rinse. These antibacterial ingredients also help treat mosquito bites. Double duty.

Go Nude: Cat eyes, smoky eyes or your favorite grunge goth eyeliner won’t look so sexy while they nastily stream down your sweaty face. Unfortunately, even waterproof makeup sometimes succumbs to summer sun defeat. Your best bet is to stick to flattering bronzers and earth tone mattes. Keep oil-soaking sheets handy and let that beautiful tan do most of the work.

Comfort First: Make sure everything in your stylish wardrobe (including shoes) is “long distance-comfortable.” Many people do a lot of walking during their vacations, so you want to steer clear of any clothing that pinches, squeezes or scratches your body to the point of irritation. The last thing you need to be worrying about are throbbing feet and chaffed skin.

Come hang out with BET.com beauty editor Kimberly Walker at African Pride’s Beauty Suite during the 2011 Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, July 1 – 3. Oh, and, ladies, there will be unlimited mimosas.

See you there! You're invited!

(Photo: REUTERS/Eric Thayer)