1. Stay out of the Sun during the Harshest Part of the Day

You always want to have sunscreen on, but many of the best outdoor athletes say that they head inside between 10am and 3pm, when the sun’s rays are the harshest. Many report working out inside or taking a break during this time. However, they do make the most of the time before and after by training and getting out there when the sun isn’t so scary. This is a great tip we can all copy!

2. Apply Sunscreen before You Put Your Clothes on

Pro golfer, Beatriz Recari, swears by this technique. She says that if you apply your sunscreen before getting dressed, you are less likely to miss a spot. You can simply slather it on every inch of your body. Allow it to soak in, then put your clothes on. This is also great for getting protection in places that thin clothing may not do a very good job of keeping safe.

3. Read Sunscreen Labels to Find the Best Product for You

All of the best sun goddesses say it’s important to read sunscreen labels carefully so you know you’re getting something that has your best interests in mind. You want a product that is mineral based and broad spectrum so it protects against UVA and UVB rays. If you plan to be in the water, choose a water resistant product and if you can find one with antioxidants, snap it up!

4. Whatever You do, Don’t Skimp on the Sunscreen

Kelley O’Hara, of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, encourages you to lay the sunscreen on pretty thick. While you don’t want so much that it won’t rub in all the way, you want enough that you can adequately spread it all over without missing spots. You will run out more often, but there’s always more at the store. And you’ll never have to worry about a sunburn, wrinkly skin or cancer ever again.

5. Create a Sunscreen Routine That You Can Stick with

Are you someone who forgets sunscreen often? If you create a routine that incorporates sunscreen application, you’ll never forget again. My routine looks like this – I apply sunscreen under my make-up every day. If I plan to be outside, I carry a tube of facial sunscreen with me so I can reapply every couple of hours. Of course, I also slather the rest of my body when it’s exposed. This simple routine keeps me from forgetting and suffering the consequences.

6. Experiment with Sunscreen Products and Sample a Lot of Them

This is the only way to find exactly what you want. One might be too sticky while another might be too watery. By giving a bunch of sunscreens a test run, you can find one that meets all of your needs. Look for small tubes or free samples if you can, so that you can save some money on your quest for the perfect sunscreen.

7. Be Ready for Mistakes and Screw-ups so You Can Start Fresh Again Next Time

We’re all going to get fried once in a while or forget to bring extra sunscreen to the beach. Obviously, you don’t want to do this too often or you could suffer the health consequences. However, knowing what to do when it does happen can save you a lot of angst. The top sun goddesses recommend soothing the burn with a serum and following it up with a thick moisturizer several times each day. A hydrating cream can help boost skin health after sun exposure as well.

Will you be taking any of this advice next time you go outside? What other tips do you have to add?