But before you buy, check in with Consumer Reports to see which ones it recommends.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States.
More than one million new cases were diagnosed last year alone, and as we head into the Memorial Day weekend, Consumer Reports can indeed help you find the best protection.
Consumer Reports tested 22 sprays, creams, and lotions, including ones from Banana Boat and Coppertone.
"One of the things testers looked at was whether the product protected against UVB radiation. That's what causes sunburn and what the SPF number refers to," said Ginger Skinner from Consumer Reports.
Another potential danger from the sun, UVA radiation, which can cause cancer and also ages skin, penetrating even deeper than UVB rays.
"The testers also evaluated how well the sunscreens block UVA radiation. There's still no standardized labeling system, so most just say they've got UVA protection," Skinner said.
To test, sunscreens are applied to people's backs at an outside lab. Then they're subjected to either UVA rays or UVB rays.
And since swimming in the water can wear off sunscreen, Consumer Reports tests for water resistance as well.
"We did find a number of sunscreens that provided excellent protection against UVB rays and very good protection against UVA radiation," said Skinner.
Two at a good price, Up & Up Sport, a spray from Target with SPF 30, and Equate Baby lotion from Wal-Mart, with an SPF of 50.
Consumer Reports says it's best to apply sunscreen about half an hour before you head outside, and remember to reapply right after swimming or about every two hours.
