Whether you bronze nicely or are pigmentally challenged like I am, you should protect your skin from sun exposure.  Outside of never going outside, an easy option is to apply a liberal dose of sunscreen.

Sunscreens come in lotions, gels, cremes (and creams), sprays, and sticks.

So what kind should you use?  Well, that answer isn’t as simple as you’d think.

Beware of the chemicals, the marketing, and the costs.  How does one makes sense of the labels?  UVA?  UVB?  What’s the difference?

Well, thankfully, there are a few “safe” options that are easy on the budget.  Of course, I am a firm believer in any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen.  But that doesn’t mean I am suggesting to settle for just any sunscreen.

Here are some quick recommendations for some “easy-on-the-chemicals,” excellent sun protection options:

   

While some of the above may be hard to find, they do receive some of the best EWG scores for health concerns and value.  The Environmental Working Group’s ratings seem to suggest that the spray sunscreens could potentially be much less healthy for you based on the ingredient/chemical list.

Here are some additional popular brands:

• Aveeno
• Badger Sunscreens
• Banana Boat
• BurnOut Sunscreens
• California Baby
• Coppertone
• Hawaiian Tropic
• Kiss My Face
• Neutrogena

Whatever your brand choice, do a little research and stick with what works for your skin and your wallet.  Just because it costs more doesn’t mean it’s the best choice.  Remember, whatever protection you choose, apply sunblock every 2-3 hours and try to stay out the direct sun between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

If this overview isn’t enough for you, be sure to check out the EWG website for detailed information on the chemicals typically found in sunscreens as well as their complete 2012 breakdown on the best beach and sport sunscreens.  They also have a quick sunscreen search so you can see where your current brand ranks.