Swimming is a great form of exercise and it can be done year-round. However, this means that you have to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays (which also increases risks for cancer). This article will give you 10 different waterproof sunscreens for swimming so that you don’t have to worry about getting sunburned while having fun in the water.
What is sunscreen?
Sunscreen is also known as sunblock, sun cream or suntan lotion. It is a topical preparation that contains ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to protect against the ultraviolet rays of the sun
Sunscreen is a topical medication that protects your skin from the sun’s UV rays. These include UVA and UVB, which can cause cancer as well as other health problems like premature aging or severe burns.
Why should you wear waterproof sunscreen?
Wearing waterproof sunscreen will shield your skin from UV damage caused by sunlight when you are outdoors for extended periods of time (i.e., swimming). Sunlight also makes it difficult for our bodies to produce vitamin D so wearing at least SPF 15-30 blocks up 49% of harmful UVA/UVB radiation .
Sunscreen is especially important for children, the elderly and those with fair skin. It’s also helpful to wear sunscreen if you are taking medications that make your skin more sensitive to sunlight such as psoralens or retinoids (taken orally) or vitamin A analogues used in acne treatments like Roaccutane.
How do I apply waterproof sunscreen?
Apply a generous amount of sun protection about 30 minutes before going outside, then reapply frequently while outdoors. For example, it should be applied every two hours when swimming so long as the water isn’t heavily chlorinated.
What’s the side effect of sunscreens?
The following symptons are the side effects of using sunscreens:
- Sign of acne breakouts
- Red itchy skin
- Sign of redness or swelling
These symptons will go away after a day or two after using sunscreen. But as your skins get used to sunscreens, the severance of those symptons will also reduce.
What’s different about waterproof sunscreens?
Waterproof sunscreens (or water-resistant sunscreens) are a type of sunscreen that offers protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays when swimming, showering or perspiring.
Waterproof water-resistant sunscreens do not wash off in saltwater and can last for up to 80 minutes before reapplication is necessary.
Just like shampoo for swimmers, your skin also needs a specialty waterproof sunscreen for the highest protection.
What is SPF in sunscreens?
SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor”. SPF is a measurement of the degree to which a sunscreen protects you from UVB not the UVA. While UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn, UVA rays can also contribute to skin cancer and premature aging.
- SPF 15: blocks 93%
- SPF 30: blocks 97%
- SPF 50+: blocks 98%
The higher the SPF, the more protection you get.
SPF 50+ should not be used on children under six months old.
How many SPF do I need for swimming?
SPF 30 is recommended for swimming and other water sports, but for maximum protection, we recommend using SPF 50. Also remember, even waterproof sunscreens for swimming have different SPF, the duration between each apply will remain the same.
What is the best sunscreen for swimming?
We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best waterproof sunscreen for swimming to help you find the perfect fit. Our top ten includes sunscreens that will withstand water, sweat, and even tears!
Ocean Potion Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Ocean Potion Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion is a high-performance broad spectrum sunscreen lotion that provides protection against UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburn and early skin aging. This watersproof sunscreen for swimming will cool the skin on contact, is non-greasy, goes on sheer and contains sea plants and antioxidant vitamins B, C & E to nourish the skin. Ocean Potion Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion is enriched with aloe vera gel for extra hydration while protecting your skin from the damage of UV rays.
Australian Gold Spray Gel With Instant Bronzer SPF 50
Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 50 is a must have for your next trip to the beach, pool or just spending time outdoors. The rich formula absorbs into skin easily and provides broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays (SPF 50) while also providing an instant bronzed look. Australian Gold uses natural ingredients like Kakadu Plum and Tea Tree Oil to help protect skin from free radicals.
Spray Gel: Comes in a convenient pump that allows for maximum control, while the rich formula easily absorb into skin for a fresh, healthy look.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 50
The dermatologist recommended sun care line from La Roche-Posay offers two broad spectrum SPF products that are lightweight and oil free. The Anthelios Tinted Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid gives you a sheer tint of color while protecting your skin with its mineral based, non-chemical sunscreen formula. This product is water resistant for up to 40 minutes and has an ultra light texture that absorbs into the skin and is practically invisible.
Neutrogena Beach Defense Water Resistant Sunscreen Body Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 70
Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion is a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula that provides long-lasting protection from UVA/UVB rays. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes so you can enjoy the water without worry.
Our dermatologist recommended sunscreen lotion with Helioplex technology and superior broad spectrum protection is designed to help prevent sunburn while helping your skin look younger longer. This non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, leaving no white residue on skin or clothing.
Mary Kay Sun Care Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Mary Kay Sun Care Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 provides UVA and UVB protection. Water-resistant and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, this sunscreen is suitable for sensitive skin. Clinically tested for skin irritancy and allergy, Mary Kay Sun Care Broad Spectrum SPF 50 protects against sunburn while moisturizing your skin. Dermatologist-tested, this non-comedogenic sunscreen absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling soft and moisturized.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55 is a lightweight sunscreen that goes on dry and absorbs quickly into your skin. It’s the ideal sunscreen for daily use because it leaves no greasy residue behind. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55 provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with Helioplex Technology.
This formula has an exclusive technology that delivers the superior protection of a chemical sunscreen without leaving behind any oily residue so you can be confident that your skin is protected all day.
Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Face Stick, Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Face Stick, Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a must have for beach goers. This non-comedogenic sunscreen stick delivers UVA/UVB protection and is packed with Vitamin E to moisturize your skin. The water resistant formula provides broad spectrum sun protection in a convenient roll-on applicator that can be used on the face or body.
SolRX Sport Spray SPF 50 Sunscreen
SolRX Sport Spray SPF 50 Sunscreen is a broad spectrum sunscreen with UVA/UVB protection for athletes and anyone who wants to be in the outdoors. Perfectly balanced, SolRX SPORT Spray SPF 50 Continuous Dry-Spray Sunscreen is oxybenzone free and reef friendly. It’s also anti-aging formula contains no fragrance nor parabens!In addition, it has 360 locking spray with push/pull trigger for easy spray application at any angle.
Hawaiian Tropic Island Sport Sunscreen Lotion
For the ultimate protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays, Hawaiian Tropic Island Sport Sunscreen Lotion is your perfect companion. This water-resistant, sweat-resistant sunscreen lasts for up to 80 minutes when exposed to water or perspiration.
The breathable, ultra-lightweight formula that won’t clog pores and protects, softens, and leaves skin radiant and luminous. Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage keeps your skin looking its best.
Fast absorbing, non-greasy sun lotion is fast absorbing. Luxurious tropical scents of coconut and pineapple will have you dreaming about your next tropical vacation day after day.
BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a mineral sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This product is free of oxybenzone, octinoxate and other chemical active ingredients. BLUE LIZARD Sensitive sunscreen contains only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. It will not clog pores or cause breakouts; instead, it works to hydrate dry skin while keeping you protected from the sun. This formula is sweat resistant for up to 80 minutes and can be reapplied with no worries.