Best Body Sunscreen For Sports

What to Look for in the Best Body Sunscreen for Sports

Choosing the right sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin during sports and outdoor activities.

1. Water and Sweat Resistance

Citrus catapult arrow

For active use, opt for a sunscreen labeled as water- and sweat-resistant. This ensures it stays effective even when you perspire or get wet, providing continuous protection during intense activity.

2. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Select a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum coverage, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage while you're outdoors.

3. SPF Level

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for a sunscreen with at least SPF30 or higher for sports. Higher SPF values offer more protection, which is important when you'll be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.

4. Texture and Absorption

Citrus catapult arrow

A lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly and won’t interfere with your grip or comfort. Sprays, gels, or fast-drying lotions are popular options for athletes on the move.

  1. 1
    Classic Spray SPF 50

    Vacation

    Classic Spray SPF 50

    $19
    325 REVIEWS
    A clean, lightweight sunscreen spray designed to optimize leisure and protection with its award-winning signature scent, high-performing active ingredients, "continuous-spray" technology, and truly transparent application on all skin tones.
    View full details
  2. 2
    Unseen Sunscreen Body SPF 40

    Supergoop!

    Unseen Sunscreen Body SPF 40

    $44
    188 REVIEWS
    Specially formulated for body, this 100% invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen has broad spectrum SPF and skincare benefits.
    View full details
  3. 3
    Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Cream

    Clinique

    Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Cream

    $37
    103 REVIEWS
    Innovative reparative sunscreen featuring SolarSmart technology that stabilizes high-level protection against the effects of UVA/UVB rays.
    View full details
  4. 4
    Classic Lotion SPF 50 Sun Jug

    Vacation

    Classic Lotion SPF 50 Sun Jug

    $48
    91 REVIEWS
    Classic Lotion SPF 50 Sun Jug brings the brand’s best-selling sunscreen to a value-sized 20 fl oz bottle.
    View full details
  5. 5
    Classic Whip SPF 50

    Vacation

    Classic Whip SPF 50

    $23
    45 REVIEWS
    A "lighter-than-air" sunscreen, desert for your skin .
    View full details
  6. 6
    Orange Gelée SPF 30

    Vacation

    Orange Gelée SPF 30

    $23
    407 REVIEWS
    Vacation Orange Gelée SPF 30 Sunscreen Gel is a nostalgic, yet modern take on a beloved French Riviera icon.
    View full details
  7. 7
    Chardonnay Oil SPF 30

    Vacation

    Chardonnay Oil SPF 30

    $22
    202 REVIEWS
    A lightweight SPF30 sunscreen oil made from Chardonnay grapeseed oil that delivers an enviable, subtle shine while hydrating and protecting your skin.
    View full details
  8. 8
    "Vacation” Shimmer Oil SPF 30

    Vacation

    "Vacation” Shimmer Oil SPF 30

    $38
    168 REVIEWS
    “Vacation” Shimmer Oil SPF 30 is “Black Tie” Sunscreen. Boasting two types of "show stopping" shimmer.
    View full details
  9. 9
    Mineral Lotion SPF 30

    Vacation

    Mineral Lotion SPF 30

    $18
    38 REVIEWS
    A non-nano mineral formula with broad spectrum protection made with zinc oxide and a luxurious blend of shea butter and niacinamide (Vitamin B3). 
    View full details
  10. 10
    SunPaint 100% Mineral Broad Spectrum SPF 30

    Sqween

    SunPaint 100% Mineral Broad Spectrum SPF 30

    $23.99
    4 REVIEWS
    100% mineral, paint-on sun protection for independent kids so the whole family can enjoy more fun before sun (and snow!).
    View full details

What to Look for in the Best Body Sunscreen for Sports

Choosing the right sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin during sports and outdoor activities.

1. Water and Sweat Resistance

Citrus catapult arrow

For active use, opt for a sunscreen labeled as water- and sweat-resistant. This ensures it stays effective even when you perspire or get wet, providing continuous protection during intense activity.

2. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Select a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum coverage, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage while you're outdoors.

3. SPF Level

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for a sunscreen with at least SPF30 or higher for sports. Higher SPF values offer more protection, which is important when you'll be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.

4. Texture and Absorption

Citrus catapult arrow

A lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly and won’t interfere with your grip or comfort. Sprays, gels, or fast-drying lotions are popular options for athletes on the move.

When it comes to staying protected from the sun while staying active, finding the best body sunscreen for sports is essential. Whether you're hitting the trails, surfing the waves, or playing a game of beach volleyball, having a reliable sunscreen that can keep up with your active lifestyle is crucial. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the right one. That's why we've curated a list of top-rated body sunscreens based on user reviews, so you can confidently choose a product that will provide the protection you need without slowing you down.

FAQ

What features should I look for in a body sunscreen for sports? + -

When choosing a body sunscreen for sports, look for water and sweat resistance, broad-spectrum protection, and a lightweight, non-greasy formula that won't clog pores or feel heavy during activity.

How often should I reapply body sunscreen during outdoor sports? + -

It's generally recommended to reapply body sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating heavily while playing sports.

Can I use the same sunscreen for both my face and body when playing sports? + -

While some sunscreens are formulated for both face and body, facial skin can be more sensitive. Consider using a product labeled as suitable for both areas or choose separate formulas designed specifically for each.

Are spray sunscreens effective for sports activities? + -

Spray sunscreens can be convenient and easy to apply, but it's important to ensure even coverage and rub them in thoroughly. They are popular among athletes for quick touch-ups during outdoor activities.

What SPF level is recommended for sports sunscreens? + -

For extended outdoor activities like sports, dermatologists typically recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least SPF30 to help protect against UVA and UVB rays.