Whether you’re swimming, hiking, fishing, kayaking, or just enjoying long days outdoors, the right sunscreen can make or break your experience. With countless formulas on the market, knowing how to choose the best water-resistant sunscreen for your adventures can help keep your skin protected while giving you peace of mind.
We’ve updated and expanded this guide to help you understand what “water-resistant” really means, how to choose the right format, and which additional features are worth paying attention to from FDA guidance and real-world use cases.
First, a Quick Note on “Water-Resistant” vs. “Waterproof”
Per FDA guidelines, no sunscreen can be marketed or labeled as “waterproof” or “sweat-proof.” These terms imply that a sunscreen never loses its effectiveness in water, which is not true.
Instead, for compliance, brands may only use the term water-resistant, which means the sunscreen maintains its SPF rating for a tested period, either 40 or 80 minutes, while swimming or sweating.
So when you’re searching for “waterproof sunscreen,” what you’re really looking for is water-resistant sunscreen, ideally rated for 80-minutes for long-duration outdoor activities. Look for water-resistant (80 minutes) for the best performance during water or sweat-heavy adventures.
What Makes Sunscreen Water-Resistant?
Water-resistant formulas are designed to adhere well to skin and maintain SPF performance during sustained exposure to moisture.
Common formulation features:
- Film-forming ingredients that help sunscreen stay on skin
- Oils or waxes that resist breakdown from sweat + water
- Filters (mineral or chemical) blended for better durability
While water-resistant formulas are available in both chemical and mineral formats, athletes and long days on the water often benefit from 80-minute water-resistant options. Consider browsing our Spray Sunscreen Collection for fast application and 80-minute water resistance.
Mineral vs. Chemical: Which Is Better for Adventures?
Both can be great, but what matters most is what works for your skin and activity level.
Mineral Sunscreens (Zinc Oxide / Titanium Dioxide)
- Great for sensitive skin
- Naturally broad-spectrum
- Less likely to irritate
These formulas are especially helpful if your adventures are extended and you plan to sweat, as they maintain a physical barrier on the skin. Explore our Mineral Sunscreen Collection for zinc + titanium dioxide options.
Chemical Sunscreens
- Lightweight, easy to apply
- Blend quickly
- Great for everyday wear
Chemical filters absorb UV rays and convert them to heat. If you prefer a non-chalky feel, chemical sunscreens may be the best choice.
Choose the Right Format
Different adventures call for different application formats.
Sunscreen Lotion
- Best for thorough, even coverage
- Good for full-body application
- Excellent for long-wear activity
- Plug: Try our Sunscreen Lotion
Sunscreen Spray
- Fast reapplication while outdoors
- Handy for hard-to-reach spots
- Ideal for sports + travel bags
- Plug: Try our Spray Sunscreen
Sunscreen Stick
- Compact + mess-free
- Excellent for face, ears, nose + high-exposure areas
- Plug: Try our SPF 30 Mineral Face Stick
SPF Strength: When to Use SPF 30 vs. SPF 50
- SPF 30 blocks ~97% of UVB rays
- SPF 50 blocks ~98% of UVB rays
That 1% can make a meaningful difference during long, intense sun exposure, especially while near reflective surfaces like water, snow, or sand. Water + snow reflect more UV → SPF 50 recommended
Reapply, Reapply, Reapply
Even the best water-resistant sunscreen must be reapplied. Reapply every 80 minutes during water or sweat exposure, and immediately after towel-drying.
If you’re not swimming or sweating heavily, reapply every two hours. Always follow the directions on product packaging.
A compact mineral face stick can help get quick re-application without mess, especially useful for rafting, kayaking, hiking, or fishing.
Adventure Sunscreen Checklist
Before you head out, make sure you have:
- Water-resistant sunscreen (80 min)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Protective clothing + hat
- Sunglasses
- Portable sunscreen spray for reapplication
- Plug: Pair water-resistant sunscreen with our SPF Lip Balm Collection
Best Practices for Outdoor Adventurers
Apply to Dry Skin
Sunscreen adheres better before the skin is wet.
Use Enough
Adults often need ~1 oz (a shot glass amount) per full-body application.
Don’t Forget High-Exposure Areas
- Ears
- Neck
- Feet
- Hands
- Tops of shoulders
- Behind the knees
Pair With Protective Clothing
UPF clothing + sunscreen = serious coverage.
Smart Label Reading
Look for:
- Water-resistant (80 minutes)
- Broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB)
- SPF 30–50
- Mineral filters if you’re sensitive or prone to breakouts
- Clear reapplication instructions
Pro tip: Avoid products labeled “waterproof” as they are not FDA compliant. Choose water-resistant formulas instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is any sunscreen waterproof?
No. Per FDA guidelines, sunscreen cannot be considered waterproof. Only water-resistant (40 or 80 minutes).
2) How often should I reapply when in water?
Every 80 minutes or as directed, and after towel-drying.
3) Is spray or lotion better for adventures?
Lotion provides more consistent coverage; sprays are great for fast reapplication.
4) Should I use mineral or chemical sunscreen outdoors?
Both can protect well; mineral is gentler for sensitive skin, while chemical blends easily.
Final Thoughts
The right sunscreen keeps you safe outdoors whether you’re surfing, hiking, paddling, or warm-weather traveling. Choose an 80-minute water-resistant formula, bring along a portable spray or stick for reapplication, and remember that no sunscreen is truly waterproof; only water-resistant.
Now pack, apply, reapply and go have fun!