Best Sunscreen for Cricketers in 2021

As a cricketer, you frequently spend a large portion of your day in the sun.

Whether you’re at training sessions or playing a match, these hours add up quickly! And as you begin to exert yourself, you also begin to sweat. Therein lies the problem.

Did you know perspiration is the downfall of many leading sunscreens?

Luckily, finding the right sunscreen for your cricket needs doesn’t have to cause a headache.

After thoroughly researching the specifics of how to protect cricketers from UV rays, SimplySunSafe recommends EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion, Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 as the best sunscreen for cricketers.

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To help weigh up your options, we’ll walk you through a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table and in-depth reviews of the top five sunscreens for cricket.

The Skin Cancer Foundation urges all athletes to be extra careful with sun protective measures in sport. In addition to sunscreen, be sure to wear a protective hat and cricket shirt, as well as sunglasses.

Alternatively, you might like to make your own DIY Zinc Oxide Powder.

Best Sunscreen for Cricketers Comparison

Buyer’s Guide

In order to make a proper decision, it often helps to understand the product you are buying. It can be difficult to look at a sunscreen bottle and know what it all means. In this section, we will explain what matters in a sunscreen or sun cream, and the most important features to look out for.

The sunscreen that will serve you best as a cricketer will have the following must-have features. Keep an eye out for them as you search!

Broad spectrum protection

When you spend as much time in the sun as you do playing cricket, broad spectrum protection should be one of the first things on your mind! It means that you are equally protected against both the UVA and UVB rays from the sun.

That’s right, there are two types of UV rays that come from the sun, and they work in different ways. The best sunscreen is one that has UVA and UVB protection.

UVB rays are the ones that cause burning and tanning by damaging the outer layer of your skin. You really want to be careful not to allow your skin to start burning as the length of a cricket match means you could be blistered by the end of a session!

UVA rays are even more dangerous because their damage goes unnoticed (at least for a while). These rays penetrate the deepest layer of your skin (the dermis), and cause premature aging. You don’t want to be a sun-weathered cricket commentator one day, so you need to stop UVAs now.

As you can probably guess, exposure to both types of rays increases your risk of skin cancer – an illness to which cricketers are (unfortunately) particularly susceptible.

Simply put, in general, and especially as an outdoor athlete and cricketer, broad spectrum protection is of vital importance!

Best SPF for Cricketers

I’m sure that you know the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating of a sunscreen is important, but perhaps you’re not sure exactly why. You’re not alone, but it is helpful to really understand how SPF protection truly works.

Let me explain it to you simply. The SPF tells you what fraction of the sun’s rays will reach your skin if you have properly applied your sunscreen.

That means, if you’re wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30, then only 1/30th of the sun’s rays will reach your skin.

Don’t get carried away, though, especially when you’re outside playing cricket!

There are many factors that influence the effectiveness of SPF like time of day, amount of sunscreen properly applied, and even reflections from different surfaces.

Here’s a simple table which shows you how much protection you get from different SPF ratings:

SPF Rating	UVB Protection
None	0%
2	50%
15	93%
30	97%
50	98%
100	99%

It seems like there’s very little difference between the higher SPFs, right?

It’s true, so how do you know which rating to choose for when you’re playing cricket?

SimplySunSafe likes to stay in line with guidelines put forward by the British Association of Dermatologists, which assert that you should choose sunscreens with SPF ratings no lower than 30 and no higher than 50+.

Keep in mind that no matter what SPF rating you do choose, you need to be sure to reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours for optimal performance and protection!

Physical is better than chemical

Were you aware that sunscreens can be separated into two main groups – chemical and physical? The differences between these two groups lie in their active ingredients and in the way they protect your skin from UV rays.

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays as they reach your skin, while physical sunscreens reflect UV rays before they reach your skin.

Does one sound safer than the other?

In actuality, there are many reasons to choose physical sunscreens over chemical ones. Physical sunscreens:

• Work immediately upon application (no need to wait before you play!)
• Last longer
• Are less likely to cause irritation
• Have a longer shelf life

Am I convincing you yet?

Let me share something else with you. Many chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that mess with your hormones. As an athlete, that is not something that you want to have a problem with! The worst of these chemicals is called oxybenzone, and it is best for you to avoid it no matter what!

Physical sunscreen will provide you with the most durable protection while you play cricket in the sun!

Water resistant

Water resistance is a must in your sunscreen as a cricketer! You find yourself under the hot sun for eight hours at a time. There is no way that you won’t sweat. And when you add that with the sweat caused by physical exertion, water resistance becomes even more important.

To make sure that you receive continuous, sufficient protection while you’re giving your all on the cricket field, you need a sunscreen that won’t melt away at the first sign of sweat.

Sunscreens are available with 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance. I strongly suggest that you choose sunscreens with 80 minutes of resistance. It will provide you with longer lasting protection and peace of mind throughout your training and games.

Zinc oxide as active ingredient

You already learned why it’s a good idea to choose physical sunscreens. Now I want to point out a specific ingredient to you: zinc oxide. It is the strongest sunscreen ingredient and protects against the full range of UVA/B rays.

Look for sunscreens with higher concentrations of zinc oxide to know that you are receiving the best and most reliable protection.

Be aware, you will likely be left with a white cast on your face when you use zinc oxide as an active ingredient.

Just think of it as proof of quality protection and a tribute to some of the greats of the game!

Higher SPF ratings for paler skin

As the guidelines suggest, you never want to choose a sunscreen with an SPF rating lower than 30. However, if you have paler toned skin, then you may want to consider choosing sunscreens with SPF ratings closer to 50.

Remember, the SPF is protecting you from burning and tanning. If you know that your skin is sensitive and burns easily, then it is worth your while to search and invest in a sunscreen with a higher SPF rating!

5 Best Sunscreens for Cricketers

After thorough research into what elements are necessary for proper sun protection of cricketers which included discussing issues with customers, reviewing customer feedback, examining manufacturer specifications, and participating in skincare forums, SimplySunSafe has compiled a list of the 5 best sunscreens for cricketers.

Each sunscreen provides physical, broad spectrum protection with an SPF rating of 30 or greater. They are all water resistant and each contains zinc oxide as an active ingredient.

1. EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion

Last update on 2021-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Are you ready? First on SimplySunSafe’s list of 5 best sunscreens for cricketers is none other than EltaMD’s UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion! UV Sport full-body sunscreen is designed for use while playing sports or exercising outdoors. That’s right, especially when playing cricket!

UV Sport is a water-resistant sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection for the body. This active ingredient sunscreen is made for extreme conditions and active lifestyles so you can take it with you wherever your day takes you. The non-greasy, lotion texture absorbs quickly to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays and is water-resistant so it won’t rinse off or drip into your eyes when in water.

Finally, you don’t have to worry about stubborn itchiness and redness when you’re using EltaMD’s UV Sports Sunscreen Lotion SPF50. Yes, it is hypoallergenic! It’s not only oil-free, but it’s also sensitivity-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. Therefore, it can be easily applied to all skin types!

To achieve the optimum protection offered by UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, it is recommended that you apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply at least every 2 hours depending on the duration of exposure.

2. thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+

Last update on 2021-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

SimplySunSafe’s second choice for sunscreen for cricketers is an all-around dependable and effective sunscreen that you will be able to use daily on the cricket field.

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ provides broad spectrum protection through a high concentration of the desired active ingredient zinc oxide (20%) so you know you’re well protected!

It doesn’t get better than thinksport when it comes to the safety of your sunscreen. Thinksport was the first product to pass the Whole Foods premium care requirements. Rest assured that your skin won’t react to this gentle formula.

Thinksport has a rather thick formula that you will want to make sure and rub in very well so that you’re not let feeling sticky.

Like the majority of sunscreens with high concentrations of zinc oxide, thinksport will leave your skin with a slight white cast. Just remember you’re there to play hard and you want your sun protection to be working just as hard. That white cast is a reminder that it is!

Speaking of playing hard, don’t worry about sweating and losing your sun protection. Thinksport provides 80 minutes of durable water resistance so that you’ll be able to play through a bit of the game without worrying about your sunscreen.

Thinksport’s high SPF rating also gives you an extra cushion in your protection against burning from UVB rays while you play under the hot sun.

Do you have any young cricketers in your life? If you do, then thinksport can help you there too, with their kids formula. Help the next generation of cricketers learn and train safely in the sun!

thinksport SPF 50+ is also listed by SimplySunSafe as the best sunscreen for tennis and the most appropriate sunscreen for men. It’s truly an awesome product for a huge variety of uses.

3. Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35

Last update on 2021-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35 is a product that comes highly recommended here at SimplySunSafe. It is versatile and works well with all skin types. Not to mention that your broad spectrum protection is provided through a high concentration of its active ingredient zinc oxide (22.5%).

Badger Sport’s formula is so simple, it’s hard to believe. It is made up of just five all natural ingredients. That is why it works well with any skin type, even sensitive types, and does not cause any irritation.

You will be able to use and re-apply this sunscreen daily, without having any issues on your face and body.

Expect to be left with a white cast with Badger Sport, as its concentration of zinc oxide is quite high. Just draw some battle streaks below your eyes and get on the cricket field to play!

While you’re playing under the sun, rest assured that your sweat won’t melt away the sunscreen right away. You’ll be equipped with 80 minutes of strong water resistance.

The sunscreen lotion is reliable, but if you prefer stick versions of sunscreen for easier and more convenient application, then you’re in luck. Badger has a sport sunscreen stick for your face. You can apply the lotion before the game and keep the stick in your pocket on the field for quick reapplications to your face, if you want!

We love Badger Sport so much we’ve chosen it as the best sunscreen for athletes. If you’re looking for a general sport sunscreen, look no further!

4.Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50

Last update on 2021-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50 is an excellent choice that you will find easily at your local drugstore. It’s a brand that is trusted worldwide and recommended by dermatologists. With this sunscreen, you will receive broad spectrum protection with yet another high concentration of active ingredient zinc oxide.

It doesn’t matter what type of skin you have, with the Neutrogena ultra sheersunscreen you will not experience irritation even when you use it every day for protection on the cricket field. It is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic (won’t cause your skin to break out with acne) for the gentlest of touches on your skin. So from normal skin to more acne prone skin, this sunscreen will work for you.

Due to the high concentration of zinc oxide, you will experience a white cast, but the lotion does absorb and dry very well. You won’t be left feeling like your skin is greasy while you’re trying to focus on the game.

As you need, Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch provides 80 minutes of water resistance to get you through your cricket matches and training!

5. Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sport Stick Sunscreen SPF 30

Last update on 2021-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The stick format of sunscreen works really well when you’re an athlete. It is convenient and fast. Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sport Stick is another great option for your cricket career. This compact stick provides a punch of broad spectrum protection with a high concentration of its active ingredient zinc oxide (20%).

Babo Botanicals Sport Stick is great for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is even hypoallergenic. It is designed for use on the face and surrounding areas, such as ears and neck. However, it will work well on other areas of your skin that may be exposed while you play cricket, such as your hands.

With Babo Botanicals Sport Stick, you can multitask playing cricket while getting sun protection and conditioning your skin! The formula contains nourishing ingredients like shea butter and beeswax that work while you’re being protected.

You may be left with a white cast, but you definitely won’t have to worry about sweating this sunscreen off with its 80 minutes of water resistance!

This stick sunscreen may just be the best face sunscreen for cricketers. Its portability and ease of application make this perhaps its most appealing feature to any athlete.

Other Methods of Staying Safe

Sunscreen is an effective protective measure to take against sun damage. However, it is not the only method of keeping safe from the sun’s rays. There are many other preventative measures that you can and should be practicing as you play cricket.

Of course, many of these factors depend on how much control you have over the cricket games that are scheduled. However, it is important to keep these tips in mind and to practice them whenever possible.

Reapply sunscreen!

You might have applied your sunscreen before the match, but cricket matches can be very long, and sunscreen is not meant to last all day. Take any breaks you get to reapply sunscreen if needed. Pay special attention to the SPF, the amount that you sweat, and how long you have been in the sun.

Many people gain a boost of confidence by applying sunscreen, and think it makes them immune to sun damage. This is not the case, and this boldness may actually cause prolonged sun exposure, making things worse!

So you’re better off safe than sorry. If you think you’ve been in the sun too long, reapply, it’s easy and effective.

Stay Shaded

I get it, you probably don’t schedule where your matches are played. And it might be tough to find shade on a big, open cricket field. But if you do have a say in the matter, try to pick a location that at least has the chance for some shade. At least, try to grab some shade during breaks in play.

The simple fact is that standing in the sun all day is harmful, but I’m sure you already knew that. So when you have the opportunity to get some shade during a long match, you need to jump on it.

Protective Gear

Depending on whether or not you have to wear an official uniform for your cricket team, you should try to wear some protective gear.

A wide-brimmed hat is a great idea, preferably one that goes all the way around your head. Your head is especially vulnerable to sunburn because of how exposed it is.

Some lightweight, breathable clothing is best as well. This is because you can shield yourself from the sun with this clothing, but it won’t become too hot as to be unbearable while playing sports.

Overall, it really comes down to whether this is a casual or more competitive cricket game. If you have a say in what you are going to wear, then always try to pick something to minimize the risk of sun.

Conclusion

This guide was written for people on a search for the best sunscreen for cricketers. I hope that by reading this guide you learned more about what sun protection you need while you play and found a product that fits your specific needs!

SimplySunSafe recommends EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion, Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 , but all 5 of the recommended products are reliable and will protect you under the sun as a cricketer.

I suggest that you take some time to test out a few different sunscreens before deciding on one. You never know what type of reactions your skin might have to different formulas. By testing different sunscreens, you’ll learn what aspects of each one work and don’t work for you. Then your final decision will be the most informed!

I really love learning new things and hearing about other products from the people around me. If you use or know of another sunscreen that works well for cricketers, please share it in the comments. I’ll check it out and maybe even add it to the list to pass on the knowledge to other cricketers!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the white cream cricketers put on your face?

A: This white cream is called sunscreen from zinc oxide, which basically protects your skin from UV rays and other harmful substances you get from staying under the sun. Cricketers play for hours under the sun so it is important that they protect themselves with zinc oxide, especially the sensitive parts of their face. 

 Q: How to apply the zinc oxide sunscreen?

A: To apply the zinc oxide sunscreen, you need to clean the area first, such as your face or any parts of your body. After cleaning, put a small amount of sunscreen on your fingertips and apply the cream on your face thoroughly to cover all the areas you want to protect. It’s advisable to put on sunscreen 15  minutes before you play under the sun.  Make sure that you dry your face before applying zinc oxide sunscreen. 

Q: What factors should you consider while purchasing zinc oxide white cream?

 A: Some factors that you should consider are the level of SPF, broadness of spectrum, the active ingredients of the white creams, and their water resistance.  A minimum of SPF 10 is recommended.  Also, note that zinc oxide can cause dryness in skin, the higher the zinc oxide content, the more it can cause skin dryness. 

Q: How is zinc oxide sunscreen different from regular sunscreen?

A: Regular sunscreen contains only a small amount of zinc oxide or none at all while zinc oxide sunscreen has a high level of zinc oxide, which is the strongest ingredient to protect your skin from UVA and UVB  rays which are the causes of skin cancer and to make it even better-it is water resistant. 

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