When it comes to sunscreen, all are not created equally. That being said, how do you know which one is right for you? The following are a few key tips that will help you select the best sunscreen for your skin.

Know the skin you’re in

In order to choose the right sunscreen, you have to know your skin type. The American Association of Dermatology recognizes six different skin types ranging from those who always burn to those who do not burn at all. Here are the six skin types.

1. Always burns easily, never tans, extremely sun-sensitive skin.
2. Usually burns easily, tans minimally, very sun-sensitive skin.
3. Sometimes burns, tans gradually to light brown, sun-sensitive skin.
4. Burns minimally, always tans to moderate brown, minimally sun-sensitive skin.
5. Rarely burns, tans well, sun-insensitive skin.
6. Never burns, deeply pigmented, sun-insensitive skin.

Where are you?

Your geographic location heavily impacts your risk of sunburn. The closer you are to the equator, the more direct sunlight you come in contact with. The southern half of the United States receives 1.5 times the amount of sunlight than the northern half. Higher altitude levels also increase your chance of sunburn since there is less of earth’s atmosphere to act as a barrier against the sunlight.

Choose your protection

SPF, or sun protection factor, is used to measure the extent to which a particular sunscreen will defend your skin against UV rays. In general, a higher SPF will offer greater protection. It is important to remember that although SPF offers UVB protection, it does not necessarily guarantee protection against UVA rays. UVB rays are those responsible for skin redness and sunburn and affect the skin’s outermost layer. UVA rays cause wrinkles and aging and penetrate more deeply into the skin. For the best coverage against UVA rays, choose a sunscreen that contains helioplex or Mexoryl.

Good chemical, bad chemical

Along with SPF you should also consider the ingredients that make up the sunscreen. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) suggests using sunscreen that contains zinc, titanium dioxide or avobenzone/Mexoryl SX. A couple of EWG’s top recommendations are Blue Lizard and Earth’s Best. Ingredients to be avoided include Oxybenzone, Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) and added insect repellent. These particular ingredients penetrate through the skin and are harmful to the body. Examples of these include Banana Boat Sport and Coppertone Water Babies. EWG also recommends cream based sunscreen as opposed to sprays or powders, which can be unsafe to breathe.

So next time you’re browsing the aisles in search of sunscreen, keep these tips in mind and you will definitely be covered!