Whether you are tanning, swimming, playing sports or simply walking around, the sun is always radiating onto your skin. As much as the sun is a blessing, sometimes living in sunny states can come with a cost. In sunny Southern California, sunscreen should be a part of everyone’s daily routine.

Before you head to the store, here are specific things to look for when purchasing your next bottle of sunscreen:

First, become familiar with Sun Protection Factor (SPF). SPF helps protect the skin barrier from ultraviolet (UV) light radiation, which prevents the skin from getting sunburnt in the process. The SPF number indicates how long a particular bottle of sunscreen will protect the skin from getting sun-kissed before the need for reapplication. The larger the SPF number, the better

Second, it is crucial for everyone to reapply. Once sunscreen wears off, it is no longer effective and the risk of sun damage increases. It is vital that sunscreen be used daily, regardless of the environment. Whether you are inside or outside, UV rays can permeate through windows, furthering skin injury. Even with an abundance of melanin – the genetically passed down pigmentation that naturally darkens the skin – sunscreen is indispensable for protection from radiation.

Third, look for broad-spectrum coverage with a high Protection Grade of UVA (PA). Broad-spectrum coverage protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, sun rays that lead to skin aging, while SPF determines how long sunscreen protects from all UV radiation. When choosing your next bottle of sunscreen, aim for one that is labeled broad-spectrum, an SPF number greater than 15, and PA accompanied by several plus signs.

Overall, remember to reapply your sunscreen throughout the day as you enjoy the sun and all the healthy Vitamin D that comes with it!