The Sun’s UV rays are well-known for their detrimental consequences. Sun damage is something we all experience, and it can lead to serious consequences such as skin irritation, blisters, sunburns, and skin cancer in the worst-case situation. People who participate in sports or are exposed to a lot of sunlight should use the best sports sunscreens to protect their skin. Sports sunscreens are designed specifically for persons who work outside and are exposed to the Sun frequently, such as sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts. As a result, the formulas of these items are both powerful and nutritious. These are broad-spectrum sunscreens that shield you from both UVA and UVB radiation of the Sun. These formulae also contain zinc oxide, an important component, that significantly protects the skin. We’ve compiled a list of highly-rated sports sunscreens that are ideal for use. The items on this list are recognized worldwide and produced with skin-friendly components. Take a peek around.
Top 13 Best Sports Sunscreens You Can Buy In 2022
1. Best Overall:Australian Gold Extreme Sport Spray Gel Sunscreen
Induced with menthol, this sports sunscreen has ultra cooling effect and gives instant relief from sweat and odor. It is formulated with a unique blend of tea tree oil, vitamin C, Kakadu Plum extract and menthol that takes care of the skin and refreshes it well. The product offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays that makes it a good everyday sunscreen. You can easily apply it with the spray and stay protected from the sun. Pros
Non-greasy Phthalate-free PABA-free Oxybenzone-free
Cons
Might not be suitable for all skin types
2. Best For Athletes:Banana Boat Ultra Sport Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen comes in an easy-to-spray can. The formula is lightweight and doesn’t clog your skin. It provides protection as a broad spectrum sunscreen, shielding you from both UVA/UVB rays. The formula is non-greasy and can resist water for up to 80 minutes. For people who are into sports and sweat a lot while training in the sun, this serves as a perfect athletic sunscreen. It needs to be applied after every two hours to keep you sun safe. Pros
Non-sticky formula Easily spreads Comes in a combo pack Easy to hold bottles
Cons
Doesn’t stay long
3. Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-free Sunscreen
Looking for an ideal sports sunscreen that is fit for outdoor sports and activities? Then try using this one from Neutrogena that works well when it comes to sun protection. Made with Helioplex, a sunscreen technology that protects skin against the harmful effects of the sun, Neutrogena Sport Sunscreen is highly recommended. It doesn’t wear off easily and decreases the risk of skin cancer. The formula is non-greasy and prevents any type of skin clogging. It is a great sports sunscreen for face and suits oily skin type. Pros
Oil-free PABA-free Resists water and sweat Doesn’t cause breakouts
Cons
Poor quality lid
4. Best Water-Resistant:Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray
This powerful SPF50 from Coppertone is the top choice when you wish to stay sun safe during your sports session. It protects against the sun and has a water-resistant formula for around 80 minutes. This means you can stay sun safe for long without having to apply sunscreen again and again. It is light in texture and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin. Designed to deliver maximum coverage, this high protection product can be relied upon for outdoor activities due to its no-paraben formula. It even contains skin nourishing vitamins that keep up the skin quality. Pros
No odor Easy-to-apply Durable formula Comes in a milky mist form
Cons
Might not suit sensitive skin type
5. Best Easy-To-Apply:EltaMD Skincare UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
This full-body sports sunscreen is one of the best sunscreen options to use while enjoying all outdoor activities. It is a mineral-based sunscreen that doesn’t rinse away with water drops or your sweat. Induced with zinc oxide, it provides a broad spectrum coverage and helps prevent sunburns and other skin issues associated with sun exposure. The sunscreen can be easily applied and there is no white cast issue associated with it. Its sun protection factor is 50 which is quite good and reliable to protect the skin. Apply this sports sunscreen generously on your skin 15 minutes before sun exposure and enjoy healthy skin. Reapply after every 2 hours for prolonged protection. Pros
Oil-free Paraben-free For full body use Non-comedogenic formula
Cons
Slightly expensive
6. Best Long-Lasting:Vanicream Sunscreen Sport SPF 35
A lightweight, easy-to-apply, non-greasy sunscreen that serves the role of a broad spectrum product is highly desired. This product from Vanicream is one such sunscreen that fulfills all these conditions and gives effective protection against the sun. It has a lotion like consistency that prevents sunburns and lasts long. Made of elemental and nature-derived inclusions, Vanicream Sunscreen Sport with SPF 35 is safe to use. Pros
Free of dyes No preservatives No gluten Transparent texture
Cons
Leaves a slight white cast
7. Best For Quick Absorbtion:Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+
Thinksport face sunscreen is one of the top-rated sunscreens available today. The formula spreads and gets absorbed easily. It is SPF 50 and functions as a broad spectrum coverage product. This sunscreen is free from biologically harmful chemicals. It gives a non-oily touch and is free from any kind of smell. The product serves as one of the best protective sunscreens for athletes and sports personalities. Check out the detailed review of the product in this video. Pros
No paraben No oxybenzone Non-aerosol formulation No animal testing
Cons
Slightly thick texture
8. Best Pleasant Smell:Hawaiian Tropic Island Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Hawaiian Tropic Island Sport Sunscreen is a delightfully scented sunscreen that gives a pleasant feel. The formula is super thin and doesn’t clog pores. It spreads easily on the skin making it well protected and radiant. Available in three variants, i.e. SPF 15, 30 and 50, this sunscreen gives you options to choose the level of protection. The classic coconut and mango fruit fragrance makes this sunscreen pleasant for use. Pros
Non-greasy formula Ultra lightweight Even coverage Fast absorbing
Cons
Slightly Watery consistency
9. Solimo Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Solimo Sport Sunscreen Lotion is your go-to product to keep your face free from harmful effects of the sun. The broad spectrum protection of SPF 50 prevents sunburns and keeps the risk of skin cancer away. If you are an athlete and wish to invest in a decent sunscreen for runners, then you must try this one. The sunscreen feels smooth and gets absorbed right away. The brand is reliable and does a pretty decent job at keeping you sun protected. Pros
Oxybenzone-free Reef-friendly Compact design Water-resistant
Cons
Not vegan
10. Best Eco-Friendly:Alba Botanica Cool Sport Sunscreen
For people who love to invest in environment-friendly skincare products, this is one of the finest choices. It is made of vegetarian ingredients that are safe to use. The product does not contain any harmful chemicals which makes it a highly preferred sports sunscreen. With Alba Botanica Cool Sport refreshing clear spray SPF 50 sunscreen you can keep your skin soft, nourished and sun protected. It does not feel heavy on skin and gets quickly absorbed. The formula is biodegradable and is not tested on animals. Pros
Lightweight Spray mist Purely vegetarian No oxybenzone, octinoxate, or gluten
Cons
Slightly unpleasant smell
11. Best For Golfers:Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen
This reef-friendly sports sunscreen is one of the most effective sunscreens. In fact, it is one of the best sunscreens for golfers or any other athletics lovers who need to stay in the sun for long hours. This physical sunscreen contains no skin-irritating chemicals which makes the product safe for all. It contains zinc oxide which sure helps in reflecting away the UV rays from the skin and keep it protected against sun damage. Pros
Water-resistant Fragrance-free Mineral-based formula Without oxybenzone or octinoxate
Cons
Light white cast produced
12. Best Sweat-Proof:NO-AD Sun Care Sunscreen Lotion
Sport Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is a highly chosen formula by sports enthusiasts. It is formulated especially keeping in mind the active lifestyle. This sunscreen offers broad spectrum protection and tackles both UVA and UVB rays. It does not feel sticky on the skin and keeps the skin sun safe. Induced with aloe, Vitamin E, and avobenzone, this sunscreen is enriched with antioxidants and is immensely nourishing for the skin. For people who wish to invest in a sweat-proof sunscreen, this is a great option. Pros
Paraben-free Resists water Sweat-resistant Non-greasy
Cons
Slightly strong smell
13. Best For Sensitive Skin:Badger Broad Spectrum SPF 35
Badger broad spectrum mineral sunscreen has wonderful herbal ingredients. The composition contains organic sunflower oil, organic jojoba oil, vitamin E, and organic beeswax which are considered great for the skin. Along with these organic ingredients, it contains zinc oxide that prevents white cast and makes the skin safe from harmful effects of the sun. When looking for an all-natural sports sunscreen, this is one of the top choices. The formula spreads amazingly well and suits people with sensitive skin. Pros
Water resistant Reef-friendly Cruelty-free Gluten-free
Cons
Slightly sticky
Having known all about the top sports sunscreens, you must be thinking of buying one soon. But before heading to purchase, read the points given below that will surely help you in making a better choice.
How To Choose The Best Sports Sunscreen For Your Skin Type?
Look for the following points before choosing a sports sunscreen for your skin type-
People with oily skin must check that the sunscreen is free from mineral oils and doesn’t clog pores. It should have a light texture and not feel heavy on the skin. People with sensitive skin must do a patch test before using a sunscreen on the entire face. Also, the sunscreen must be free from harmful chemicals that might irritate sensitive skin like paraben, phthalates, oxybenzone or artificial dyes. If you are someone who has dry skin, watch out for products that leave a white cast. Look for a sunscreen that has nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, aloe or jojoba oil. Such ingredients will nourish your skin and make it healthy.
What SPF Should I Look For In A Sports Sunscreen?
A sports sunscreen must have a formula which is really powerful and makes the skin free from sun damage. So, a higher SPF like 30 or 50 is pretty effective.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is passionate about skin care. As an avid outdoor enthusiast, she is familiar with the need for long-lasting sunscreen. So, after reviewing many user reviews on various trusted online forums, she compiled this thorough list of the best sports sunscreens. These shortlisted sunscreens keep the sun rays at bay and help nourish your skin. How Often Should Runners Reapply Sunscreen? Runners usually need to reapply sunscreen after every 2 hours as a good quality sunscreen stays effective for 2 hours. Is Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Safe? Yes, Coppertone Sport Sunscreen is safe for use as it contains no dyes or PABA or oxybenzone, which are believed to harm skin. Is SPF 70 Better Than 50? Protection from UV radiation provided by SPF 50 and SPF 70 is 98 and 99 percent respectively. This means SPF 70 functions more or less similar to SPF 50. What really matters is the appropriate application of the sunscreen that you use. Does Sweat Affect Sunscreen? Yes, sweat affects sunscreen. When a person sweats profusely, the sunscreen tends to wash away rapidly. This is why you need to use a sweat-proof sunscreen. Which Sunscreen Is Best While Swimming? A sunscreen that is water-resistant should be used while swimming. Some of the best sunscreens to be used while swimming are Neutrogena Sport Sunscreen, Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen.
