How to Choose a Sweat-Resistant Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential for summer outdoor workouts, but life has a slightly rougher sensation than when your sweat turns your forehead into a slip and a layer of sticky sunscreen slides down.
Fortunately, some sunscreens are better for this purpose than others. Technically, none of them are “sweat proof” because something wears out over time. (In a similar vein, the FDA does not allow sunscreens to advertise themselves as “waterproof” or call themselves “sunscreens.”) But waterproof and therefore persistent sunscreens do exist, and a look at the label can help you explain the difference.
Look for the words “40 minutes” or “80 minutes” on the label.
Sweat-resistant or swim-resistant sunscreens will be labeled “water-resistant” and you’ll see those words on the front of the package. Most sunscreens with the word “sport” in the name are waterproof, but pay attention to the fine print.
The FDA labeling guidelines for a sunscreen that claims to be water resistant should also indicate whether it passed the 40-minute or 80-minute test. For sunscreens that best withstand sweat, look for the words “waterproof (80 minutes).”
Even sweat-resistant sunscreens need to be reapplied.
If you’re going to go out for a few hours, you can’t just put on sunscreen and then forget about it. Add up the amount of time you expect to be out and then compare to what your sunscreen indicates.
All sunscreens should be reapplied after two hours, even if you are not sweating. During this time, you probably touched your face, your sleeves rubbed against your hands, and so on. There is no guarantee that you have enough sunscreen left to protect yourself, so reapply just in case; and if you have dried off with a towel at any time, be sure to reapply afterwards.
If you sweat (or swim, or otherwise be exposed to water), take a look at this waterproof rating. If you’re going for a 90-minute run, using an 80-minute sunscreen won’t quite get you to the finish line. You will likely stop at some point for a drink or a snack, so grab some sunscreen and reapply when you have a minute.
Balance All Factors
As with any skin product, you need to experiment to determine which one works best for you. (After all, the best sunscreen is the one you actually wear .) You’ll also want to check the rest of the stats on the label. Look for an SPF of at least 30 and the words broad spectrum to indicate that it blocks UVA rays in addition to UVB .
So while I would prefer an 80 minute sunscreen, I use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Mist while running. It’s SPF 55, broad spectrum, and best of all, it doesn’t feel sticky or slimy like others I’ve tried. It is water resistant for 40 minutes, so I reapply or choose another sunscreen if I know I will be exercising longer. (In such cases, I’ll use 80-minute sunscreen on my hands, but still prefer my favorite for the face.) And if you’ve found your favorite sweat-resistant sunscreen, let us know.