When you're hitting the pavement for a run, the last thing on your mind is sunburn. You want protection that's as light and breathable as your athletic gear. But which sunscreens for running will keep you shielded from the sun's harsh rays, whether you're running a 5K or a marathon?
You need sunscreens that can keep up with your active lifestyle – ones that are sweat-resistant, water-repelling, and easy to apply. But with so many options on the market, it's hard to know which ones will deliver. That's why I've rounded up the best sunscreens for running, the ones that will help you power through your runs without worrying about the sun.
Key Takeaways
- Sweat-resistance is key when choosing a sunscreen for running.
- Look for a formula that's lightweight and won't leave a greasy residue on your skin.
- A broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection is essential for long-term skin health.
- Consider a water-resistant sunscreen that can withstand sweat and water.
- A clear, non-greasy finish is a must for athletes who want to wear their sunscreen discreetly.
| Ultimate Sweat-Resistant Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B0DLFRDD2Z” alt=”La Roche-Posay UV Pro-Sport Face & Body Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | La Roche-Posay UV Pro-Sport Face & Body Sunscreen | Long-lasting SPF 50 protection | Invisible formula blends seamlessly into all skin tones | Advanced Cell-OX Shield Technology provides long-lasting protection | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Water-Resistant Face Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B001P92FMG” alt=”Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen | Water-resistant performance up to 80 minutes | Oil-free formula absorbs quickly | Broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Water-Resistant Sport Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B0173G3AY6″ alt=”Coppertone Sport Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | Coppertone Sport Sunscreen | Water-resistant formula stays on strong | Long-lasting protection up to 80 minutes | Broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Mineral-Based Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B0DPGRPTR3″ alt=”Blue Lizard Australian Sport Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | Blue Lizard Australian Sport Sunscreen | 100% mineral-only SPF formula | Broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays | Water-resistant formula lasts up to 80 minutes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Water-Resistant Sport Sunscreen 2 | [zw asin=”B07WGV6Q45″ alt=”Amazon Basics Sport Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | Amazon Basics Sport Sunscreen | Water-resistant formula stays on strong | Affordable price point | Broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Lightweight Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B005IHT94S” alt=”Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen | Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula | Water-resistant formula lasts up to 80 minutes | Broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Water-Resistant Sunscreen | [zw asin=”B001FYXA6G” alt=”EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen” loading=”lazy”] | EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen | Water and sweat-resistant formula | Non-greasy formula spreads easily | Broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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La Roche-Posay UV Pro-Sport Face & Body Sunscreen
Ultimate Sweat-Resistant Sunscreen
View on AmazonLa Roche-Posay's UV Pro-Sport Face & Body Sunscreen is a top pick for athletes who need a high-performance sunscreen that stays put even in the most intense activities. Its advanced Cell-OX Shield Technology provides long-lasting protection against UVB rays and environmental stressors, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. With its invisible formula, this sunscreen blends seamlessly into all skin tones without leaving a white cast or greasy residue.
This sunscreen is specifically designed for long-lasting SPF 50 protection that stays put during physical activity, even when sweating or swimming. Its non-drop formula won't run into your eyes while sweating, and it won't stain your clothing. It's also fragrance-free, making it suitable for atopic-prone skin or sensitive skin.
While this sunscreen excels in many areas, its formula may not be suitable for everyone. Some users may experience a slight stinging sensation when applying the sunscreen, especially if they have sensitive skin.
- Brand:La Roche-Posay
- Type:Face and body sunscreen
- Size/Capacity:Not specified
- Material:Not specified
- Water Resistance:Up to 80 minutes
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Non-drop formula
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
- Additional Feature:Suitable for atopic-prone skin or sensitive skin
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Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen
Water-Resistant Face Sunscreen
View on AmazonNeutrogena's Sport Face Sunscreen is a great option for athletes who need a water-resistant sunscreen that won't run into their eyes while sweating. Its oil-free formula absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a non-greasy finish that makes it comfortable for everyday use. This sunscreen is also designed with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, making it suitable for use in a variety of outdoor activities.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its water-resistant performance, which lasts up to 80 minutes. This means you can enjoy your outdoor activities with confidence, knowing that your skin is protected from the sun's harsh rays. This sunscreen is also fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
While this sunscreen excels in many areas, its formula may not be suitable for everyone. Some users may experience a slight stickiness when applying the sunscreen, especially if they have oily skin.
- Brand:Neutrogena
- Type:Face sunscreen
- Size/Capacity:2.5 fl oz
- Material:Not specified
- Water Resistance:Up to 80 minutes
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Non-greasy finish
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Coppertone Sport Sunscreen
Water-Resistant Sport Sunscreen
View on AmazonCoppertone's Sport Sunscreen is a great option for athletes who need a water-resistant sunscreen that won't run into their eyes while sweating. Its water-resistant formula stays on strong even when you sweat, providing long-lasting protection against the sun's harsh rays. This sunscreen is also designed with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, making it suitable for use in a variety of outdoor activities.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its long-lasting protection, which lasts up to 80 minutes. This means you can enjoy your outdoor activities with confidence, knowing that your skin is protected from the sun's harsh rays. This sunscreen is also free from a variety of harsh chemicals, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.
While this sunscreen excels in many areas, its formula may not be suitable for everyone. Some users may experience a slight stickiness when applying the sunscreen, especially if they have oily skin.
- Brand:Coppertone
- Type:Sport sunscreen
- Size/Capacity:7 FL OZ
- Material:Not specified
- Water Resistance:Up to 80 minutes
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Free from a variety of harsh chemicals
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Long-lasting protection
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Blue Lizard Australian Sport Sunscreen
Mineral-Based Sunscreen
View on AmazonBlue Lizard's Australian Sport Sunscreen is a great option for athletes who need a mineral-based sunscreen that provides long-lasting protection against the sun's harsh rays. Its 100% mineral-only SPF formula is designed to provide broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, making it suitable for use in a variety of outdoor activities. This sunscreen is also water-resistant, lasting up to 80 minutes in the water.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its mineral-only formula, which is designed to be gentle on the skin. This makes it a great option for those with sensitive skin, who may experience irritation from chemical-based sunscreens. This sunscreen is also vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
While this sunscreen excels in many areas, its formula may not be suitable for everyone. Some users may experience a slight chalkiness when applying the sunscreen, especially if they have dry skin.
- Brand:Blue Lizard
- Type:Sport sunscreen
- Size/Capacity:5 fl oz
- Material:Mineral-only formula
- Water Resistance:Up to 80 minutes
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Gentle on the skin
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Vegan-friendly
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Amazon Basics Sport Sunscreen
Water-Resistant Sport Sunscreen 2
View on AmazonAmazon Basics' Sport Sunscreen is a great option for athletes who need a water-resistant sunscreen that won't run into their eyes while sweating. Its water-resistant formula stays on strong even when you sweat, providing long-lasting protection against the sun's harsh rays. This sunscreen is also designed with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, making it suitable for use in a variety of outdoor activities.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its affordable price point. This makes it a great option for those on a budget, who still need a high-quality sunscreen to protect their skin from the sun's harsh rays. This sunscreen is also fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
While this sunscreen excels in many areas, its formula may not be suitable for everyone. Some users may experience a slight stickiness when applying the sunscreen, especially if they have oily skin.
- Brand:Amazon Basics
- Type:Sport sunscreen
- Size/Capacity:8 Fluid Ounce
- Material:Not specified
- Water Resistance:Up to 80 minutes
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Affordable price point
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen
Lightweight Sunscreen
View on AmazonNeutrogena's Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen is a great option for athletes who need a lightweight sunscreen that won't leave a greasy residue on their skin. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula absorbs quickly into the skin, making it comfortable for everyday use. This sunscreen is also designed with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, making it suitable for use in a variety of outdoor activities.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its water-resistant formula, which lasts up to 80 minutes in the water. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy water sports, who need a sunscreen that will stay on their skin even when they're wet. This sunscreen is also fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
While this sunscreen excels in many areas, its formula may not be suitable for everyone. Some users may experience a slight chalkiness when applying the sunscreen, especially if they have dry skin.
- Brand:Neutrogena
- Type:Face sunscreen
- Size/Capacity:3 fl oz
- Material:Not specified
- Water Resistance:Up to 80 minutes
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Water-resistant formula
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EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen
Water-Resistant Sunscreen
View on AmazonEltaMD's UV Sport Sunscreen is a great option for athletes who need a water-resistant sunscreen that won't run into their eyes while sweating. Its water and sweat-resistant formula stays on strong even when you sweat, providing long-lasting protection against the sun's harsh rays. This sunscreen is also designed with broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, making it suitable for use in a variety of outdoor activities.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its non-greasy formula, which spreads easily on wet or dry skin. This makes it a great option for those who don't like sticky sunscreens, who need a sunscreen that will reapply quickly without leaving a residue on their skin. This sunscreen is also fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
While this sunscreen excels in many areas, its formula may not be suitable for everyone. Some users may experience a slight stickiness when applying the sunscreen, especially if they have oily skin.
- Brand:EltaMD
- Type:Sport sunscreen
- Size/Capacity:Not specified
- Material:Not specified
- Water Resistance:Up to 80 minutes
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free
- Additional Feature:Suitable for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Non-greasy formula
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best sunscreen for runners who sweat a lot?
When it comes to choosing a sunscreen for running, look for a formula that is designed to stay put on your skin even when you're sweating a lot. Water-resistance is key here, as it means the sunscreen will stay in place and continue to protect your skin from the sun's harsh rays, even after exposure to sweat and water. I recommend opting for a sunscreen with a high water-resistance rating, such as SPF 50 or higher.
How long does sunscreen last on my skin while running?
The length of time that sunscreen lasts on your skin while running depends on a number of factors, including the type of sunscreen you're using, the amount of sweat you're producing, and the duration of your run. Generally speaking, water-resistant sunscreens can last for up to 80 minutes in the water, although this can vary depending on the specific product and your individual circumstances.
Can I use a moisturizer with sunscreen for running?
While it might be tempting to use a moisturizer with sunscreen for running, it's generally not the best idea. Moisturizers can leave a greasy residue on your skin that can interfere with your performance and make it harder for the sunscreen to stay in place. Instead, opt for a lightweight sunscreen that is designed specifically for athletic use.
How often should I reapply sunscreen during a long run?
When it comes to reapplying sunscreen during a long run, the general rule of thumb is to reapply every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily. However, if you're running in direct sunlight for an extended period of time, you may need to reapply more frequently. Be sure to choose a quick-drying sunscreen that won't leave a residue on your skin.
What is the difference between chemical and physical sunscreens?
When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, you'll often come across two different types: chemical sunscreens and physical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, which is then released from the skin. Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, work by sitting on the surface of the skin and reflecting UV rays away from the skin. Physical sunscreens are generally considered to be more effective and safer for use on sensitive skin.
