Double check your sunscreen bottle to make sure you're getting the best sun protection.

The sun's ultraviolet A (UVA) rays may play a greater role in skin cancer than previously thought, a recent study revealed. Traditionally, UVB rays were believed to play the central role. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen before heading outdoors to ensure you're protected against both types of damaging rays.

Fair-skinned people with light-colored hair and eyes are at greatest risk for skin cancer, but everyone needs protection against the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Two types of UV light associated with skin cancer risk are UVA and UVB radiation. A recent study reveals UVA rays may have a greater role in the formation of malignant skin tumors than previously believed. Researchers examining tissue samples from squamous cell carcinoma, a common type of skin cancer, and from precancerous solar keratosis lesions found genetic mutations consistent with UVA damage. These genetic mutations may lead to skin cancer if unrepaired. To protect your skin, avoid sun exposure during peak hours between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M., especially if you burn easily. If you do head outdoors, wear long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Although SPF only refers to a sunscreen's effectiveness against UVB rays, look for ingredients in sunscreen such as avobenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide, which seem to offer the best defense against UVA rays.

RealAge Benefit: Safely getting enough sun can make your RealAge as much as 1.7 years younger.

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