We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen (to protect against wrinkles, sun spots and, most importantly, skin cancer!), but drugstore shelves are packed with row upon row of bottles. How to choose the right one? Each year, the formulas become more advanced, so we’ve created a primer with some of the best sunscreen innovations of 2015. Will one of these finds make it into your beach bag?



For sensitive skin
No one likes red and itchy skin after applying sunscreen. That’s why sun-care giant Coppertone has developed its first lotion specifically for sensitive skin. It includes 14.5 percent zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection.
Coppertone Sunscreen Lotion Sensitive Skin SPF 50, $11, at mass-market retailers.



For makeup wearers
Available in six shades, this mineral powder with micronized zinc oxide provides SPF 30 and is hypoallergenic. Dust it over your makeup in the morning and throughout the day for full sun protection that blends with your skin tone. Bonus: It travels well because the brush is attached!
Éminence Organic Skin Care Sun Defense Minerals in No. 0 Translucent, $58, eminenceorganics.com.



For city living
Shiseido’s new oil-free tinted sunscreen for the face combats UV rays as well as environmental aggressors such as pollution. Sebum-absorbing powder minimizes shininess. Wear one of the three shades under or instead of foundation for a fresh finish.
Shiseido Urban Environment Tinted UV Protector SPF 43, $35, sephora.ca.



For athletes
Formulated for athletes and sports enthusiasts, this sunscreen lotion features hyaluronic acid, which bonds moisture to the skin. Simultaneously, licorice extract soothes inflamed skin. It’s water-resistant up to 40 minutes.
Dermalogica Protection Sport SPF 50, $42, dermalogica.ca.



For your eyes
The delicate skin around the eyes is an area that oft-irritating sunscreens rarely touch. SkinCeuticals wants to change that with this new nonmigrating (meaning it won't drift into your eyes and sting!) sunscreen developed specifically for the eye area, including the eyelids. Ceramides in the product nourish the skin and prep it for makeup application.
SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50, $37, skinceuticals.com/canada.



For dry skin
Try this hydrating spray lotion with safflower oil if you’re looking for a little extra moisture along with your sun protection. It contains natural mineral blockers titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, as well as antioxidants such as green tea, carrot extract and vitamin E to fight the free radicals that cause sun damage.
Kiss My Face Sun Spray Lotion with Hydresia SPF 50, $17, kissmyface.com.



For faux-glow lovers
If you love the look of a tan, but want to ensure that your skin is protected, try this spray sunscreen with caramel extract to offer a subtle temporary glow. It’s water-resistant up to 80 minutes. Be sure to reapply after swimming, sweating or towel-drying!
Hawaiian Tropic Touch of Colour Tinted Spray Lotion SPF 15, $11, at drugstores.



For fashionistas
OK, this sunscreen isn’t the most innovative around, but it is the prettiest. In fact, we’ve never seen more stylish packaging. And if you’re happy to be seen holding the bottle, you’ll be even more likely to use what’s inside, right? (Plus, it has a fresh sea-lily scent and a smooth texture with fast absorption.)
Tarte Tarteguard 30 Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $38, sephora.ca.

Read more:
The perfect sunless tan: Tanning tips from a pro
How to prevent and treat a sunburn