Everything you need to know to protect your skin (and tattoos!) from damaging UVB rays so you can have fun in the sun - safely!

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Not all sunblocks are created equal. 

According to Richard Parker, founder and director of Research at high-performance skincare-makeup hybrid brand Rationale, you should only use sunscreens containing natural zinc oxide as an active ingredient.

Read on for everything you need to know about protecting your skin from this sun's damaging rays.

Plus, expert tips on how to keep your tattoos looking fresh all summer long.

Sunscreen absorbs UV rays before they can harm skin, while sunblock blocks them like a shield

Chemical sunscreen vs. physical sunblock

A chemical sunscreen absorbs the sun's damaging UV rays before they can harm your skin. 

It is often thin in consistency, contains skin-benefitting ingredients and ideal for everyday use. 

Physical sunblock is also known as mineral sunscreen, it sits on top of the skin and reflects the sun's rays like a shield.

Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the main active ingredients in physical blocks.

Physical sunblocks offer immediate protection, while chemical sunscreens need time to absorb before sun exposure.

This is not the time to skimp. The proper amount and application is essential 

For maximum protection, a chemical sunscreen should be applied to dry skin 15-30 minutes before heading outdoors to allow the product to bind to the skin. 

It should be applied to every part of the body that will be exposed to the sun, avoiding your eyes and mouth.

Ears, feet, and back of the neck are the most common areas to be overlooked.

Experts suggest using the amount of sunscreen it takes to fit into a shot glass over the entire body.

'On average sunscreen should be applied every two hours when you're outdoors, especially if you're engaged in a physical activity,' shares Richard.

For the face, he recommends Rationale #3 The Tinted Serum SPF50+ serum. 

'RATIONALE #3 The Tinted Serum SPF50+ is a new type of zinc oxide sunscreen called a Superfluid that is super lightweight and only needs to be applied once a day.'

It spreads very quickly, thinly and evenly over the skin, providing invisible zinc protection.

To apply, 'take a few drops on your fingertips, warm them between your hands then lightly press and glide over your face, neck and backs of hands.'

If you are going to get wet, either by swimming or perspiration, a water-resistant zinc sunscreen is your best choice, according to Richard

Apply SPF before makeup

Many foundations and blushes provide sun-protecting elements but worn alone they will not provide the proper amount of protection your skin needs.

A true sunscreen should always be the last step of your morning routine, allowing approximately five minutes for it to absorb before applying makeup.

Any makeup containing SPF is considered an added bonus.

According to Richard, RATIONALE #3 The Tinted Serum SPF50+, replaces makeup foundations, which have unreliable SPF. 

'It contains zinc and iron oxides that help prevent solar damage while making skin appear even, dewy and luminous.'

La Roche-Posay (deemed the fastest growing skincare brand in for the second year in a row by NielsenIQ) is recommended by dermatologists worldwide and very popular on social media.

TikTokers are raving about the brand's Anthelios UV Hydra Sunscreen with SPF 50.

The daily hydrating sunscreen with hyaluronic acid provides hydrated, healthier-looking skin and a dewy finish with a barely-there texture that blends invisibly into all skin tones and skin types - and it's affordable!

Before making a splash, opt for water resistant sunscreen 

Sunscreens come as lotions, sprays, gels, powders and oils.

But if you are going to get wet, either by swimming or perspiration, a water-resistant zinc sunscreen is your best choice, according to Richard.

'Water resistant sunscreens contain heavy oils and waxes that repel water, but they feel heavy and can clog your pores.

'Only use these when you are certain to burn, for example, at the beach in summer.'

Be sure to over birthmark areas 

It's highly recommended that people with birthmarks cover them before going outdoors.

New York-based celebrity dermatologist Diane Madfes recommends an SPF 50 for optimum protection.

'Zinc sunsticks are an easy way to apply UV protection,' says Dr. Madfes.

She likes sunscreen by Badger and La Roche-Posay.  

'In situations where protective clothing isn't feasible, such as at the beach, it's essential to apply sunscreen approximately 15 minutes before sun exposure and to reapply it every 90-120 minutes,' says Erin Murray, SVP of Marketing for Mad Rabbit

Tattoo care is a must

'During the summer months, various factors can affect your tattoo, such as exposure to pool water or ocean water,' says Erin Murray, SVP of Marketing for Mad Rabbit.

'While pool and ocean water can dry out the skin and make tattoos appear dull, the primary concern is prolonged sun exposure.' 

The sun's harsh rays can significantly impact the appearance of body ink if proper precautions are not taken.

'The most effective preventative measures include applying sunscreen and donning protective clothing,' says Erin.

Sun protective clothing, also known as UPF clothing (Ultraviolet Protection Fabric) is made of fabrics that can absorb, reflect, or block UV rays. 

Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants can also help - just avoid fabrics featuring an open weave.

'In situations where protective clothing isn't feasible, such as at the beach, it's essential to apply sunscreen approximately 15 minutes before sun exposure and to reapply it every 90-120 minutes,' says Erin.

According to the expert, a physical sunblock with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 is needed. She favors Mad Rabbit SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen for both color and black body art.

'The care remains the same; however, fading may be more noticeable, particularly with colored tattoos, in my experience.'

The expert suggests applying aftercare products like the Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm to tattoos affected by environmental factors to restore their vibrancy.

'Keeping your tattoo out of prolonged sun exposure is paramount. 

'Regardless of the season or the activities you're engaging in, protecting your tattoo from the sun's rays should always be your top priority,' urges Erin.