Spending a day at the pool is great, but sunburns? Not so much. Finding a sunscreen that actually stays put while you’re swimming can be a real challenge. I’ve tested tons of sunscreens over the years, and some just wash right off, leaving you unprotected. This guide highlights some of the best sunscreens that hold up even when you’re spending hours in the water.
Here’s a quick look at the sunscreens we’ll be covering:
- Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen: Great for sensitive skin, reef-friendly.
- EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50: Water-resistant, lightweight formula.
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant Sunscreen: Affordable, non-greasy feel.
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60: High protection, moisturizing.
- Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen: Smells good, broad spectrum protection.
Top 5 Best Sunscreen for Swimming Pools
1. Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
Thinksport is a mineral-based sunscreen, meaning it uses zinc oxide to block the sun’s rays. It’s specifically designed for athletes and people who are active, offering high SPF protection. This makes it a solid choice for long days at the pool.
Pros:
- ✅ Reef-friendly formula, free of harmful chemicals.
- ✅ Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- ✅ Good for sensitive skin; doesn’t contain parabens, phthalates, or BPA.
Cons:
- ❌ Can leave a slight white cast, especially on darker skin tones.
- ❌ Requires thorough rubbing to blend in properly.
- ❌ Some users find the texture a bit thick.
Verdict: Thinksport is a dependable choice if you prioritize a reef-friendly, mineral-based sunscreen, especially if you’re okay with a bit of extra blending.
2. EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
EltaMD UV Sport is a favorite among dermatologists. It’s a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides excellent protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula is designed to be water-resistant and lightweight, making it comfortable to wear during physical activities.
Pros:
- ✅ Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- ✅ Lightweight and non-greasy formula.
- ✅ Contains zinc oxide, offering broad-spectrum protection.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricier than other sunscreens.
- ❌ Some users with very oily skin might find it slightly shiny.
- ❌ May require reapplication after heavy sweating.
Verdict: If you’re willing to spend a bit more for a high-quality, dermatologist-recommended sunscreen, EltaMD UV Sport is an excellent choice.
3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant Sunscreen
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer is a widely available and affordable option that provides broad-spectrum protection. Its dry-touch formula is designed to absorb quickly and leave a non-greasy feel, which is a big plus when you’re spending time in and out of the water.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable and readily available.
- ✅ Non-greasy, dry-touch formula.
- ✅ Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Cons:
- ❌ Contains chemical sunscreen filters, which some people prefer to avoid.
- ❌ May not be suitable for very sensitive skin.
- ❌ Some users report a slight fragrance.
Verdict: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable, widely available sunscreen with a non-greasy feel.
4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk offers high SPF protection with a unique, moisturizing formula. It’s designed to be easily absorbed into the skin without leaving a sticky residue, making it a great option for those with dry or sensitive skin.
Pros:
- ✅ High SPF 60 protection.
- ✅ Moisturizing and easily absorbed.
- ✅ Suitable for sensitive skin; fragrance-free and paraben-free.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit more expensive.
- ❌ Some users find the “milk” texture takes a bit of getting used to.
- ❌ Might feel slightly heavy on very oily skin.
Verdict: La Roche-Posay Anthelios is an excellent choice if you need high SPF protection and have dry or sensitive skin.
5. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen
Sun Bum is a popular choice known for its pleasant scent and effective broad-spectrum protection. It’s designed to be water-resistant and easy to apply, making it a favorite for beach days and pool outings. I always loved the smell of this one; it reminds me of summer.
Pros:
- ✅ Broad-spectrum protection.
- ✅ Water-resistant.
- ✅ Pleasant, signature scent.
Cons:
- ❌ Contains chemical sunscreen filters.
- ❌ Not ideal for those sensitive to fragrances.
- ❌ May feel slightly greasy on some skin types.
Verdict: Sun Bum is a great option if you enjoy a scented sunscreen and want reliable protection for your pool days. Just be mindful if you have fragrance sensitivities.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right sunscreen for swimming pools involves more than just grabbing the first bottle you see. Here are some key factors to consider:
- SPF Level: Aim for an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%.
- Broad Spectrum: Make sure the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Both types of rays can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
- Water Resistance: Look for sunscreens labeled as “water-resistant” or “waterproof.” Keep in mind that no sunscreen is truly waterproof, so reapplication is crucial, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Ingredients: Consider whether you prefer mineral-based (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) or chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens are generally considered better for sensitive skin and are reef-friendly. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and convert UV rays into heat.
- Skin Type: If you have oily skin, opt for a non-comedogenic and oil-free formula. For dry skin, look for moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. Sensitive skin benefits from fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens.
- Reef-Friendly: If you plan to swim in oceans or coral reefs, choose a sunscreen that is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemicals that can harm marine life.
- Application: Apply sunscreen generously 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. Don’t forget often-missed areas like ears, neck, and tops of feet. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
FAQs
Q: How often should I reapply sunscreen when swimming?
A: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or heavy sweating, even if the product is labeled as water-resistant.
Q: What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens?
A: Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier that blocks UV rays. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.
Q: Can sunscreen expire?
A: Yes, sunscreen can expire. Check the expiration date on the bottle. If there’s no date, most sunscreens are effective for about three years. Discard sunscreen if it’s past its expiration date or if you notice changes in color or consistency.
Q: Is a higher SPF always better?
A: Not necessarily. While higher SPFs offer slightly more protection, the difference is often minimal. The most important thing is to apply sunscreen generously and reapply frequently, regardless of the SPF level.
Q: What does “broad spectrum” mean?
A: “Broad spectrum” means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn. Both can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sunscreen for swimming pools ensures you can enjoy your time in the water without risking sun damage. Consider your skin type, activity level, and environmental concerns when making your selection. Whether you prioritize reef-friendliness, water resistance, or a non-greasy feel, there’s a sunscreen on this list that will fit your needs. Remember to apply generously and reapply often for the best protection.
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