The best sunscreen for summer

Sunscreen, also known as sunblock, is a lotion, gel or spray that protects skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Some people think that sunscreen is only for those who burn easily. But the truth is, everyone should wear sunscreen every day.

Too much exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn, which can lead to skin cancer.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. and is very preventable. So whether you burn, tan or your skin seems unaffected by the sun, you still need to wear sunscreen.

UV rays are electromagnetic radiation rays that come from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Sunlight has three types of UV rays:

• UVA rays: These rays transmit through the atmosphere and have the longest wavelength. UVA rays penetrate the middle layer of your skin (the dermis) and cause skin damage.
• UVB rays: These have a shorter wavelength, and though the earth’s ozone layer absorbs most of these rays, some can still reach the outer layer of your skin (the epidermis) to cause burns.
• UVC rays: These rays have the shortest wavelength, and the ozone layer absorbs all of them. These rays do not affect the skin.

How does sunscreen protect your skin?