Summer is at our heels, tartelettes — for you west coast girls it is already here (lucky)! But with rising temps come harmful rays, and by now you should know that sun protection is key to maintaining a youthful complexion. And today, I’m going to tell you why.

SPF

A sunscreen’s SPF, or sun protection factor, measures how much the product shields the sun’s shorter-wave ultraviolet B rays, known as UVB radiation, which can cause sunburn — this leads to wrinkles and skin damage, not to mention skin cancer. You should be wearing a daily protection level of anywhere between SPF 15 to SPF 30. Always apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to sun exposure, and when spending time in direct sunlight,  you should reapply your every two hours. Many people — like me before I wrote this blog — are not sure how much sunscreen they need to apply in order to achieve full protection; one ounce or a shot glass size full of sunscreen should cover your entire body.

When shopping around for sun block, you want to choose one that guards against both UVA and UVB rays, this will help  maintain and protect the health of your skin and  prevents signs of aging from sun damage. I’ve broken down a list of products that will keep you covered when frolicking around outside this summer,  wherever in the world you may be.

1. For full face coverage try MyChelle Replenishing Solar Defense SPF 30

2. For all over protection try Suntegrity all natural moisturizing body protection, broad spectrum SPF 30

3. Hair too is in danger when exposed to the sun, prevent sun damage to your hair by applying REDKEN Color Extend Sun Solar Screen SPF 12

4. What about my makeup you ask? Not to worry tarte offers a smooth operator™ Amazonian clay tinted moisturizer w/SPF 20

5. Protective accessories!

Sunglasses..duh!

Hide under a hat!