Sunscreen is an athlete’s first line of defense against the sun’s harmful rays. However, not all sunscreens are created equal. Athletes require a more robust solution – a sweat-resistant sunscreen is designed to stay clear, even in the most intense workout sessions.
The best sweat-resistant sunscreen for athletes offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation, has a high SPF for extended outdoor activities, and is water and sweat-resistant for at least 80 minutes. It is a vital tool in an athlete’s arsenal, shielding the skin from the damaging effect of the sun while allowing them to perform at their peak, unfettered by the distractions of stinging, running sunscreen.
Best Sweat-Resistant Sunscreens For Athletes In 2023
Skinnies Sungel New Formula SPF30 Eco Sunscreen
This innovative waterless gel offers a more thoughtful approach to sun protection for athletes.
The concentrate-like formula stays on the skin for an extended period, allowing more time in the sunshine without frequent reapplication. Its easy-to-use organogel formula creates an invisible layer for long-lasting SPF30 UVA and UVB broad-spectrum protection. The gel adapts to temperature changes, ensuring reliable sun protection in various conditions.
- Scent: Fragrance-Free
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 30
- Item Weight: 3.4 Ounces
Pros:
- Waterless gel for extended sun protection.
- Easy application with a pea-sized amount.
- Bright gel responds to temperature changes.
- Multi-award-winning formula recognized for performance.
- Reef-safe, vegan-friendly, and cruelty-free.
Cons:
- Fragrance-free may not appeal to those who prefer scented options.
- SPF30 may be considered low for individuals with very fair or sensitive skin.
Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
Thinksport’s sunscreen is designed to provide adequate sun protection for athletes, making it suitable for daily use, even on sensitive skin.
The SPF 50+ sun lotion offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB defense, ensuring gentle protection against the sun’s rays. Its easy application makes it convenient for sports and active individuals, absorbing quickly without leaving the skin oily or sticky.
- Scent: Unscented
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50
- Item Weight: 6 Ounces
Pros:
- Adequate sun protection with SPF 50.
- Hydrating formula suitable for daily use.
- Clean mineral formula, free from harmful chemicals.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, ideal for sports.
- The fragrance is derived solely from natural oils.
Cons:
- Unscented may not be appealing to those who prefer scented options.
- Individuals with certain allergies may need to check specific natural oils in the ingredient list.
Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50
This lightweight and hydrating sunscreen packs a superpowered SPF of 50, absorbing both UVA and UVB rays for comprehensive skin protection.
The SPF 50 sunscreen lotion boasts a refreshing scent and quickly absorbs without leaving a noticeable “white cast.” Formulated for active days, play every day SPF 50 is water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it an ideal choice for athletes.
- Scent:Rosemary
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF):50
- Item Weight:5 Ounces
Pros:
- Superpowered SPF 50 for thorough protection.
- Light, refreshing scent without a “white cast.”
- Water- and sweat-resistant formula.
- Oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free, incorporating antioxidant-rich ingredients like sunflower and rosemary leaf extracts.
- Easy application with instructions for optimal use.
Cons:
- Individuals with specific fragrance preferences may have varying opinions on the rosemary scent.
- Reapplication may be needed after 80 minutes of swimming, which is a drawback for some users.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant and Non-Greasy Sunscreen Lotion
This Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Twin Pack offers a double SPF 45 sun protection dose featuring two 3-fluid-ounce bottles.
The sunscreen is known for its lightweight and sheer formula with Dry-Touch technology, ensuring a fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and matte finish. Formulated with Helioplex for superior sun protection, the new oxybenzone-free formula aids in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
- Scent: Unscented
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF):45
- Item Weight:5 Pounds (Two 3-fluid ounce bottles)
Pros:
- Twin pack offers a 25% value, providing two 3-fluid-ounce bottles.
- Dry-Touch technology for a non-greasy, matte finish.
- Helioplex(R) Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
- Suitable for daily use with a lightweight formula.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Cons:
- Packaging and formulation may vary, and users should be aware of any changes.
- Some individuals may prefer different application methods (spray or stick), available but sold separately.
Coppertone SPORT Clear SunscreenLotion SPF 30
Coppertone Sport SPF 30 Clear Sunscreen is a hydrating and sweat-resistant formula for athletes. The sunscreen is precise, ensuring quick absorption without leaving any white residue.
It offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is resistant to heat, sweat, and water, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities. This Coppertone sunscreen is free from dyes, parabens, octinoxate, and Oxybenzone. With water resistance for up to 80 minutes, it stays effective even during sweaty workouts.
- Scent: Unscented
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF):30
- Item Weight:31 Pounds (One 5-ounce tube)
Pros:
- Goes on clear and rubs in quickly.
- Hydrating formula suitable for athletes.
- Resists heat, sweat, and water.
- Free from dyes, parabens, octinoxate, and Oxybenzone.
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Cons:
- Individual preferences for scent may vary (no specific scent information provided).
- Users should be cautious of potential skin sensitivities to specific sunscreen ingredients.
Banana Boat Sport Mineral Enriched, Reef Friendly, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Spray
Banana Scented Mineral Enriched Sunscreen Spray offers mineral-enriched sun protection in a convenient spray format, ensuring your sun care routine won’t slow you down. The high SPF 50 provides broad-spectrum coverage against UVA/UVB rays, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
This durable sunscreen is designed for high endurance against sweat and water, offering protection for up to 80 minutes. The lightweight and non-greasy formula is made without added parabens, oils, or fragrances, making it ideal for everyday use. Additionally, it is reef-friendly, containing no oxybenzone or octinoxate.
- Scent: Banana
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50
- Item Weight: 5 Ounces (One unit)
Pros:
- Mineral-enriched formula for adequate sun protection.
- Convenient spray application for quick use.
- High SPF 50 for broad-spectrum coverage.
- Water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Lightweight and non-greasy, suitable for everyday use.
- Reef-friendly, without Oxybenzone or octinoxate.
Cons:
- Individual preferences for scent may vary (no specific scent information provided).
- Users should be cautious of potential skin sensitivities to specific sunscreen ingredients.
COOLA Organic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunblock Body Lotion
Fragrance-Free Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Mineral Lotion is a water-resistant sunscreen offering up to 80 minutes of protection. Formulated with non-nano Zinc Oxide actives, this mineral face sunscreen provides a mattifying effect without a white cast.
The antioxidant-rich plant protection helps fight free radicals, hydrate, and nourish the skin barrier. As a fragrance-free lotion, it caters to those who prefer a mineral formula while maintaining a flawless look. Additionally, it is environmentally friendly, complying with the Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104, and is vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free.
- Scent: Fragrance-Free
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF):50
- Item Weight:38 Pounds (One unit)
Pros:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50 for adequate sun protection.
- Non-nano Zinc Oxide for a mattifying effect.
- Antioxidant-rich formula to fight free radicals.
- Fragrance-free, suitable for those with scent sensitivities.
- Environmentally friendly, complying with Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104.
- Vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free.
Cons:
- It may require reapplication after 80 minutes for continuous protection during water activities.
- Some users prefer scented sunscreens for a more pleasant application experience.
Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50
Introducing a powerful solution for sun protection, this fragrance-free sunscreen offers all-mineral defense against UVA/UVB rays, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. Weighing just 1.8 ounces, this compact sunscreen is perfect for on-the-go use, providing luminosity and protection for all skin tones and types.
Crafted with the athlete in mind, it is sweat and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, ensuring reliable coverage during outdoor activities. The talc-free formula makes it a versatile option for various skin needs. This sunscreen is reef-safe, hypoallergenic, paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, oil-free, dye-free, and fragrance-free.
- Scent: Fragrance-Free
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): 50
- Item Weight: 1.8 Ounces
Pros:
- Comprehensive protection against UVA/UVB, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation.
- Compact and lightweight design for convenient portability.
- Sweat and water-resistant for 40 minutes, making it suitable for active lifestyles.
- The talc-free formula ensures versatility for different skin types.
Cons:
- Requires reapplication at least every 2 hours for optimal effectiveness.
Waterman Mineral SPF 55 Sunscreen
Waterman’s MINERAL SPF 55 Sunscreen is highly water-resistant and sweat-proof with its patented AQUA-ARMOR formula, independently tested effective even after 8 hours in water. It is specifically designed for athletes and adventurers engaging in various activities, ensuring reliable protection without running into the eyes.
This sunscreen is reef-safe, making it suitable for protecting the environment and the skin. The broad-spectrum formula guards against UVA and UVB solar rays and is recommended by dermatologists for its high SPF 55 protection.
- Scent: Fragrance-Free
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF):55
- Item Weight:4 Ounce
Pros:
- Highly water-resistant and sweat-proof with patented AQUA-ARMOR formula.
- Designed for high-performance activities and various water sports.
- Reef-safe and doesn’t clog pores, suitable for all skin types.
- Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and gluten-free.
- Dermatologist-recommended and not tested on animals.
Cons:
- It may require reapplication after prolonged water exposure for continuous protection.
- Some users prefer scented sunscreens for a more pleasant application experience.
Redneck Sunscreen 6 Oz SPF 50 Sport Lotion
Redneck Sunscreen, with an SPF of 50, is a science-backed solution for sun protection, offering UVA/UVB defense and sweat and water resistance. The reef-friendly formula excludes harmful chemicals like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.
The application is simple, requiring liberal application 15 minutes before sun exposure, with reapplication recommended after 2 hours or 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Redneck Sunscreen, an official brand, emphasizes the importance of sun protection for everyone, even those rocking a mullet.
The unscented variant provides all the sun protection benefits without the typical sunscreen scent.
- Scent: Unscented
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF):50
- Item Weight:5 Ounces
Pros:
- High SPF of 50 for adequate sun protection.
- Reef-friendly, free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.
- Developed using science and expertise from DCR labs.
- Official Redneck Sunscreen Brand for a broad-spectrum defense.
- Unscented variant for those averse to typical sunscreen scents.
Cons:
- Some users prefer scented sunscreens for a more enjoyable application experience.
- Requires reapplication after swimming or sweating for prolonged protection.
Top Tips For Using Sunscreen When Running
For runners, sweating is inevitable, and using the best sweat-resistant sunscreen for athletes is non-negotiable. However, there are ways to optimize sunscreen use for maximum protection.
Run Early Or Late:
When UV rays are highest and most dangerous, Avoid being outside between 10 am and 4 pm. Running early in the morning or later in the evening can help minimize sun exposure.
Choose The Right Sunscreen
Selecting the best sweat-resistant sunscreen for athletes involves considering various factors. Your choice should cater to your skin type and sensitivity, the duration of your outdoor activities, and the environmental conditions.
Mineral-based sunscreens like COOLA Organic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 or Thinksport SPF 50+ can be a good choice for sensitive skin. If you’re into water sports, use a water-resistant formula like Skinnies Sungel New Formula SPF30 Eco Sunscreen or Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant Sunscreen Lotion.
Reapply After 2 Hours
Regardless of the brand or SPF, it’s crucial to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, especially during intense physical activities. Water and sweat can reduce how effective even the best sweat-resistant sunscreens are for athletes. Monitor the clock to ensure you’re reapplying at the proper intervals for optimal protection.
Get The Right Gear
In addition to sunscreen, consider investing in sun-protective clothing and accessories. A breathable, long-sleeved top, wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses can add extra layers of protection against harmful sun rays. Remember, even the best sweat-resistant sunscreen for athletes is just one tool in your sun protection arsenal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering the best sweat-resistant sunscreen for athletes demands careful consideration of several factors. These include your skin type, activity intensity, and personal preferences. Whether you’re a runner, a swimmer, or a cyclist, remember that adequate sun protection goes beyond just sunscreen.
It’s crucial to factor in timing your activities to avoid peak sun hours and the regular reapplication of sunscreen. Additionally, incorporating sun-protective gear into your routine further enhances your defense against harmful UV rays. By adhering to these precautions, you can ensure your skin receives adequate protection, enabling optimal performance in your chosen sport while minimizing the risk of skin damage.
