What to Look for in Face Sunscreen for Swimmers

Choosing the right face sunscreen is essential for swimmers who need reliable, long-lasting sun protection in and out of the water.

1. Water Resistance

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for sunscreens labeled 'water-resistant' or 'very water-resistant,' which means they maintain their SPF protection for a set period while you swim or sweat. Check the label for how long the protection lasts—typically either up to forty or eighty minutes.

2. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Make sure your sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and long-term skin damage.

3. Non-Comedogenic & Gentle Formula

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose a formula that is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and suitable for sensitive skin, as frequent swimming can make skin more prone to irritation.

4. Ease of Application & Reapplication

Citrus catapult arrow

Opt for a sunscreen that applies easily to damp or wet skin and can be reapplied without leaving a greasy residue. Stick or gel formulas are often convenient for quick touch-ups poolside.

  1. 1
    Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    2,767 REVIEWS
    A lightweight sunscreen serum with Collagen Peptide that helps protect against sun damage and helps visibly correct early signs of aging.
  2. 2
    Glowscreen SPF 40

    Supergoop!

    4,648 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Prime and protect your skin with this multitasking SPF 40 that leaves your skin glowing. 
  3. 3
    Powder-Me Dry Sunscreen SPF 30
    1,194 REVIEWS
    Nourish, protect and soothe your skin with this broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for body, face and scalp. 
  4. 4
    Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
    186 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Weightless, tinted sunscreen formulated with 100% physical filters and zinc oxide, providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection for radiant skin.
  5. 5
    Glow Stick SPF 50

    Supergoop!

    601 REVIEWS
    A sunscreen that offers glow-boosting hydration and invisible broad-spectrum UV protection.
  6. 6
    Daily Brightening UV Defense SPF 30
    288 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Dual-action daily hydrating sunscreen
  7. 7
    Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Face Cream SPF 50
    247 REVIEWS
    Innovative reparative sunscreen featuring SolarSmart technology that stabilizes high-level protection against the effects of UVA/UVB rays.
  8. 8
    Studio Tone Bronzing Drops for Face SPF 50
    220 REVIEWS
    Vacation® Studio Tone SPF 50 Bronzing Drops are the makeup artist’s secret to perfect sunkissed skin.
  9. 9
    Every. Single. Face. Watery Lotion SPF 50
    198 REVIEWS
    A next-gen daily SPF that’s universal & undetectable with a refreshing, cooling feel—it’s our most powerful protection in our simplest formula ever.
  10. 10
    Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45
    156 REVIEWS
    This universally tinted, water resistant sunscreen provides sheer protection with an antioxidant boost.

What to Look for in Face Sunscreen for Swimmers

Choosing the right face sunscreen is essential for swimmers who need reliable, long-lasting sun protection in and out of the water.

1. Water Resistance

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for sunscreens labeled 'water-resistant' or 'very water-resistant,' which means they maintain their SPF protection for a set period while you swim or sweat. Check the label for how long the protection lasts—typically either up to forty or eighty minutes.

2. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Make sure your sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and long-term skin damage.

3. Non-Comedogenic & Gentle Formula

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose a formula that is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and suitable for sensitive skin, as frequent swimming can make skin more prone to irritation.

4. Ease of Application & Reapplication

Citrus catapult arrow

Opt for a sunscreen that applies easily to damp or wet skin and can be reapplied without leaving a greasy residue. Stick or gel formulas are often convenient for quick touch-ups poolside.