When it comes to summer must-haves, there’s nothing more important than SPF in order to protect yourself from the sun’s harsh rays. And while sunscreen is essential year-round, it’s especially important as UV rays gain strength in summer months and can lead to sunburn in as little as ten minutes, depending on your skin type. 

These days, there are two main types of sunscreen to choose from: chemical or mineral formulas. While you can think of chemical sunscreens as a sponge that absorbs UVA and UVB rays before they reach your skin, mineral sunscreens act like a shield that blocks the sun’s rays entirely. They’re generally less irritating and aren’t absorbed into your bloodstream like chemical sunscreens. However, they can be harder to apply or leave a white cast.