Applying is sunscreen is your best defense against skin cancer and various skin problems all year long — yes, not just during summer, but any other season of the year. But with so many choices out there, it can be hard to find something that can provide your particular needs and preferences.

If currently you are planning on getting a good sunscreen, you’re in luck. That’s because this article will tell you some of the most important tips and tricks when it comes to shopping for as well as using sunscreen. Read on if you like to learn how to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays with sunscreen.

Go for SPF 30 or Higher

SPF stands for sun protective factor, and it tells how well it can protect your skin from the sun. Something with SPF 30 means it can shield you from the sun 30 times longer than when you’re not wearing sunscreen. Feel free to go for sunscreen with SPF 50 if you want to ensure utmost protection.

Check That It’s Broad-Spectrum

Did you know that the sun emits UVA and UVB rays, and not all sunscreens on the market can protect you from both at the same time? So when shopping, always see to it that the product you are about to put in your shopping cart says on its packaging that it’s broad-spectrum for your own good.

Also Opt for Water-Resistant

Just because you are not going swimming doesn’t mean that it’s perfectly fine to get sunscreen that isn’t water-resistant. Your sweat is still water, and it’s something that can render sunscreen that’s not water-resistant useless, thus the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin without any trouble.

Consider Your Skin Type

Do you have sensitive skin? If so, make sure that you look for sunscreen that contains only mild ingredients and is hypo-allergenic in order to ward off unwanted issues. There’s sunscreen with added moisturizers for dry skin, and there’s also sunscreen that’s lightweight which is perfect for oily skin.

Take Application Into Account

It’s also important for you to opt for sunscreen that you find easy or enjoyable to apply — the more trouble-free it is to use, the more you will slather it on. Nowadays, sunscreens come in so many different forms, such as lotions, gels, creams, sticks, sprays and foam — the choice is completely up to you!

Apply in Advance

Are you aware that it takes a little while for sunscreen to take effect? According to experts, it’s a good idea for you to apply your chosen sunscreen at least 30 minutes before heading out. Doing this gives the product enough time to “cure”, most especially the kind that’s water-resistant.

No Skimping Allowed

Your sunscreen may not come cheap and that’s why you use it only sparingly. However, this is a complete no-no if you want your skin to be protected from the sun optimally. As a general rule of thumb, exposed areas of the body should be covered with sunscreen equivalent to a shot glass’ content.

Remember to Reapply

Most sunscreens say on their packaging that reapplication should be done after every 2 hours. However, experts disagree — they say that the initial reapplication should be done after about 30 minutes, and the subsequent ones can be according to the packaging directions. But reapply more often if you’re at the beach.

Know all of the above tips by heart and you’re golden! Kindly have these vital matters about buying and using sunscreen reposted on social media to let everyone you care about stay protected from the sun’s UV rays.