NEW YORK -- Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. In fact, more than one million new cases were diagnosed last year alone.
There's nothing quite like walking on the beach on a beautiful day. But you don't want to head there without a good sunscreen.
As we head into the Memorial Day weekend, Consumer Reports' sunscreens tests can help you find the best protection.
Consumer Reports tested 22 sprays, creams, and lotions, including ones from Banana Boat and Coppertone.Testers looked at whether the product protected against UVB radiation, which causes sunburn and is what the SPF numbers on sunscreens refers to.
Another potential danger from the sun is the UVA radiation, which can cause cancer and ages skin, penetrating even deeper than UVB rays.
Testers also evaluated how well the sunscreens block UVA radiation. Though there's still no standardized labeling system, most products indicate protection against UVA.
To test, sunscreens are applied to people's backs at an outside lab. Then they're subjected to either UVA rays or UVB rays.
Since swimming in the water can wear off sunscreen, Consumer Reports tests for water resistance as well.
A number of sunscreens provided excellent protection against UVB rays and very good protection against UVA radiation, two of them at a good price - Up & Up Sport, a spray from Target with SPF 30, and Equate Baby, a lotion from Walmart with an SPF of 50.
Consumer Reports says it's best to apply sunscreen about half an hour before you head outside. And even when using sunscreen, it's a good idea to limit the time you spend in the sun, especially in the middle of the day.
Also, when you're at the beach, remember to reapply sunscreen right after swimming or about every two hours.
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