Best Sunscreen for Lifeguards

There aren’t many people who spend more time out in the sun than lifeguards!

Furthermore, spending time in the water actually reflects and intensifies sunlight, leaving skin more exposed to dangerous UV rays. This puts you at greater risk of skin cancer!

Needless to say, sun protection is paramount.

As a lifeguard, getting wet and keeping active are part of the job, so the best sunscreen is a product with reliable water-resistant properties. After all, you can’t have your sunscreen rubbing off when you perspire, or irritating your eyes when you hit the waves.

Considering these factors (and more), SimplySunSafe recommends EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion, Broad-Spectrum SPF 50  as the best sunscreen for lifeguards. This product provides protection both in and out of the water.

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But remember, your first defence against the sun should always be seeking shade and wearing protective clothing: long-sleeved shirts, polarized sunglasses and a hat.

To read more about our top five sunscreens for lifeguards, including a comparison table, detailed buyer’s guide, and in-depth reviews, check out the information below.

Best Sunscreen for Lifeguards Comparison

 

Buyer’s Guide

For a sunscreen to protect lifeguards on duty at the pool or beach, it must have a number of factors:

Broad spectrum protection

When you spend time in the sun, you’re exposed to 2 different types of ultraviolet (UV) rays – UVA and UVB rays. And while both are damaging, they are a little different. UVB rays cause sunburn whereas UVA rays cause visible signs of aging (think wrinkles & sagging skin) but both increase your risk of getting skin cancer so it’s best to make sure your sunscreen offers protection against the two.

Nowadays most sunscreens shield you from both but you should always double check the label to be sure. The sun protection factor (SPF) refers to the UVB rays but NOT UVA. Look for labels which say ‘broad spectrum’ or ‘UVA/UVB protection’ to make sure you’ve got both covered.

Best SPF for Lifeguards

When choosing a sunscreen most people take into account the sun protection factor (SPF) but a lot of people are unsure of how it actually works. Ask a friend, and the chances that they’ll tell you the higher the SPF, the better protection offered. And, technically, they’re not wrong, but it’s a little more complicated than that.

The SPF refers to how much UVB light will reach your skin when you apply your sunscreen properly (about a shot glass’ worth of sunscreen, to all exposed body parts, and reapplying every 2 hours). So, when you choose an SPF 30 sunscreen, you’re reducing UVB radiation to about 1/30th of its original strength. That means you’re getting around 97% coverage from UVB radiation.

So, if your sunscreen is factor 30, does that mean you’re literally protected for 30 times as long? To say yes would be oversimplifying. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) say you should also factor in time of day, UV index and how much sunscreen you apply. Don’t forget spending time in water, also intensifies the strength of UVA/B radiation.

Regardless of the SPF you should reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and directly after swimming, towelling off or when you sweat a lot.

To simplify things, take a look at the table below. It shows you the SPF and how much coverage it offers.

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

As you can see from the table, there isn’t a great deal of difference between SPF 30 and sunscreens with a higher SPF. You might be surprised to notice that there’s only a 2% difference between SPF 30 and SPF 100. And, contrary to popular belief, SPF 30 doesn’t offer anywhere near twice as much protection as SPF 15. So, you can see how misleading the SPF can be if you don’t really understand how it works. For this reason the FDA has put a cap on SPF 50+ sunscreens.

So, what should lifeguards be using? Experts agree that SPF 30 offers adequate protection for everyone. But, as always, make sure you protect yourself by wearing protective clothing and staying in the shade where possible too.

Physical is better than chemical

Not all sunscreens are created equal. Sunscreens are grouped into 2 different categories – physical or chemical. Physical sunscreens create a physical barrier, which sits on top your skin, and reflects damaging radiation away from it. Whereas chemical sunscreens absorb radiation before it reaches your skin.

Physical sunscreens offer better protection as they stop more radiation from reaching the skin than their chemical counterparts. They also last longer on the skin, are less likely to cause irritation, work immediately & have a longer shelf life.

You should also avoid chemical sunscreens because most of their active ingredients are endocrine disruptors. In other words they mess with your hormones. Make sure your sunscreen does not contain oxybenzone – a dangerous chemical that is surprisingly common in sunscreens.

Ensure you’re using safe products by checking the label for the words ‘physical’ or ‘mineral’. If you’re still unclear, check the active ingredients. Look for high levels of either zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide which are used in physical sunscreens. And while you’re at it, double check that oxybenzone isn’t listed among the active ingredients.

To make things easier for you, all the sunscreens featured in this review are recommended by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) for both UV protection and ingredient safety. That’s because the EWG are an authority on sunscreen and have consumers’ best interests at heart.

Water-resistant

SimplySunSafe couldn’t review best sunscreens for lifeguards without factoring in water resistance. By choosing a water resistant sunscreen you can be sure you’re properly protected while you’re in the water, and you also reduce the chances of getting sunscreen in your eyes, which nobody likes. They also last longer when you get hot and sweaty.

Did you know that there’s no such thing as ‘waterproof’ sunscreen? The FDA has banned the use of the terms ‘waterproof’ or ‘sweatproof’ as it’s misleading for consumers. Instead you’ll find the terms ‘water resistant’ (effective for up to 40 minutes in water) or ‘very water resistant’ (effective for up to 80 minutes in water) on the label. This means that the sunscreen provides protection while swimming or sweating up to 40 or 80 minutes depending on what you choose. All of the sunscreens reviewed in this blog fall into the ‘very water resistant’ category.

You can also lookout for sunscreens, which are marketed for ‘sport’, ‘water’ or ‘ocean’ on the label. These products have usually been tested under relevant conditions and usually have high water resistance. But as always, take these labels with a grain of salt and check reviews online for additional feedback.

Rub on lotion not spray

Spray formulas seem like a convenient alternative to regular lotions but how do they stack up? Both EWG and the FDA urge consumers to avoid spray on sunscreen, especially for children. This is because sprays can accidentally be inhaled and as such are a safety hazard.

Not only do they potentially harm your lungs, but also they don’t offer good coverage. The same organisations worry that spray on sunscreens do not create a thick and even barrier to protect consumers adequately from the sun.

Appropriate for daily use

As a lifeguard you should consider your sunscreen a part of your uniform. You’ll be applying sunscreen multiple times throughout the day so you’ll need a gentle formulation appropriate for daily use.

If you have sensitive skin, you’ll want to take extra care to check the ingredients lists and product descriptions to find a sunscreen that won’t irritate your skin. All of the products reviewed below are good options for daily use, though you may find one product works better for you as an individual.

5 Best Sunscreens for Lifeguards

After thorough research that combined discussing issues with customers, reviewing customer feedback, examining manufacturer specifications, participating in skincare forums, and reading medical journals SimplySunSafe has chosen the 5 best sunscreens for lifeguards. All of these sunscreens provide broad spectrum, physical protection of SPF 30 or greater, do not contain oxybenzone, are very water resistant and are great for daily use.

1. EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion

Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

First up on SimplySunSafe’s list of best sunscreens for lifeguards in no other than the EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion! This UV SPORT full-body sunscreen is designed for use while playing sports or exercising outdoors. Yes, it’s perfectly suitable for lifeguards!

EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion 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.

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.

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!

2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen

Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The second pick of SimplySunSafe for the best sunscreens for lifeguards is another excellent product created by La-Roche Posay. It is no other than the Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen! This sunscreen is specially formulated to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays which have the potential to cause serious skin conditions such as skin cancer.

The Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen is ideal for lifeguards because it utilizes the broad-spectrum SPF 60 to provide complete and effective protection while also maintaining its excellent usability. The sunscreen has a feature called “Melt-In” because of its fast absorption. It easily penetrates the skin in mere seconds which is very helpful for lifeguards who are always in need of effective sun protection.

Moreover, the La-Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen is also water and sweat-resistant! It can withstand prolonged exposure to water and perspiration for up to forty (40) minutes while still being able to provide excellent sun protection.

To maximize the protection provided by La-Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen, it is recommended that you thoroughly apply a generous amount to the skin at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. It is also recommended to reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours depending on the duration of your exposure to the sun.

3. COTZ Sensitive Non-Tinted Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen

Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The third pick of SimplySunSafe for the best sunscreen for lifeguards is the COTZ Sensitive Non-Tinted Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen. This sunscreen is recommended for all skin types as it contains no harmful sun-protection chemicals. It is also oil-free and fragrance-free, so even lifeguards with sensitive skin or who are prone to skin irritation can use the COTZ Sensitive Non-Tinted Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen. The formula is so gentle that even dermatologists recommend this product to their patients who just underwent a skin procedure.

This sunscreen also provided excellent sun protection with the help of 20% Zinc Oxide, this ingredient provides full-body protection against the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. What’s even better is that the broad-spectrum SPF 40 is capable of taking that protection to the next level!

The Sensitive Non-Tinted Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen is perfect for lifeguards because it provides water and sweat resistance for up to forty (40) minutes! Not only that, but it also maintains a smoother and softer finish for the skin that makes the user feel more comfortable.

Just like any other sunscreens, it is also recommended that you apply a generous amount of COTZ Sensitive Non-Tinted Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen to your skin at least fifteen (15) minutes before sun exposure. Yes, you can also put some on your face because the formula works best even on the most sensitive parts of the body. Reapply the sunscreen after forty (40) minutes of exposure to water or perspiration and after two (2) hours of exposure to the sun.

4. thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+

Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ is an excellent physical sunscreen that uses zinc oxide (20%) as its active ingredient. On this occasion thinksport took out the number one place for it’s affordable price, making it a great option for lifeguards who need to apply sunscreen at regular intervals daily.

thinksport Sunscreen also has the highest marketable SPF of the sunscreens reviewed in this article at SPF 50+. It’s a broad spectrum sunscreen which offers balanced protection against UVA and UVB radiation.

thinksport are a great brand because they are dedicated to making sunscreens which are safe for their consumers. They are sticklers for FDA directives, avoid chemical ingredients with bad reputations and don’t make spray formulas.

thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50 is recommended by dermatologists and uses lots of natural ingredients like sunflower oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, raspberry seed oil, cranberry seed oil and papaya. It’s light on the skin so it won’t leave you feeling greasy and it has a pleasant fragrance. This sunscreen is perfect for daily use, and shouldn’t irritate you if you have sensitive skin.

This sunscreen along with all the other sunscreens reviewed in this guide is ‘very water resistant’. As mentioned earlier, that means it lasts for 80 minutes in water.

As this sunscreen contains zinc oxide, it does leave a white cast on most skin types. But SimplySunSafe believes the pros of this sunscreen outweigh this minor con, especially as you should be prioritising function of the sunscreen over everything else.

thinksport sunscreen SPF 50+ also comes in two different sizes (3 ounce and 6 ounce tubes) which makes this an affordable option for daily users.

thinksport is also featured on SimplySunSafe as the best sunscreen for working outside – so it’s a brand we know and trust.

5. BADGER SPF 35 Sport Sunscreen

Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Badger SPF 35 Sport Sunscreen is an awesome option as it is a broad spectrum physical sunscreen and has only 5 ingredients. It is 100% natural and 98% organic too, which makes it a great option for those of you who have sensitive skin. It’s made up of zinc oxide (22.5%), sunflower oil, beeswax, jojoba oil and sunflower vitamin E.

Badger Sport Sunscreen is ‘very water resistant’, lasting for up to 80 minutes which means it’ll hold up in the water, on land and when things get hot and sweaty.

Though it’s labelled as unscented, this sunscreen has a mild oatmeal-like fragrance.

It’s also a winner for the environment. Badger Sport Sunscreen is biodegradable, non-nano, and safe for coral reefs. So you can feel good knowing that you won’t be impacting on the environment in a negative way.

Badger Sport Sunscreen offers excellent UVB protection due to its high concentration of zinc oxide. It does take some time to rub in properly and leaves a skin cast on most skin types as it is a physical sunscreen and therefore won’t be absorbed into your skin like chemical ones.

Some people dislike the consistency of this sunscreen, stating that it’s oily, and hard to wash off your hands after application. At least you know it won’t come straight off when you jump into the ocean.

Badger Sport is one of SimplySunSafe’s favorite sunscreens. We’ve also got it listed as the best sunscreen for the beach – though if you work there, stick with our number one pick 🙂

Conclusion

Hopefully this guide has helped you make an informed decision about which sunscreen best fits the needs of a lifeguard. At the very least, it should have highlighted the most important elements to look out for and how to make an educated decision when shopping for sunscreen.

Taking into account a number of factors, EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion, Broad-Spectrum SPF 50  came out on top as the best sunscreen for lifeguards. However, any of the products reviewed will provide you with a balanced protection against UVA/B rays. In the end it comes down to personal preferences, so one may work better for you than the others.

If you’re a lifeguard and you have a go-to product which didn’t make it onto the list please let me know in the comments. I’ll do some research and may add it to my recommendations.

FAQs

Q: Why do lifeguards wear sunscreen on their nose?

A: Lifeguards are often at risk for sunburn because the sunscreen they wear can rub or wash off. When asked, most lifeguards said that their nose is sensitive and can burn more easily than other parts of their exposed skin, so they take measures to prevent this from happening.

Besides, it’s important to wear sunglasses while doing lifeguard duty as it helps filter out UV rays that cause sun damage over time and reduces the risk of uveitis or cataracts in later years.

Q: What is the white sunscreen lifeguards use?

A: It is a zinc oxide-based sunscreen with a thick white paste that is applied as an opaque layer. This type of physical sunscreen stays on longer and is more water-resistant than other sunscreens because of its chemistry. 

Q: How to reapply sunscreen while sweating?

A: It is recommended that you apply your sunscreen before leaving the house and then don’t worry too much about it again. Most good sunscreens are designed to stay on when you sweat or swim for a couple of hours in seawater or chlorinated pool water without using shampoo in between each activity.

However, to ensure maximum protection, it’s essential that you reapply often. Make sure any area is completely dry before applying UV-blocking lotions or creams. And also, be sure to let the reapplied sunscreen soak into the skin for a few minutes before diving back into the water; otherwise, it’ll wash right off.

Q: What are the different types of sunscreen?

A: There are two types of sunscreen – the physical blockers, which reflect or scatter UV radiation, and phytochemicals, which react in some way.

Physical sunscreen is the most effective at blocking UV rays and is usually in the form of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (these ingredients can be listed as Z-Cote, Anthelios XL), or a combination of both. Chemical sunscreen doesn’t protect against UVA but only UVB rays which means it’s not as protective but also provides more immediate results with less continuous use.

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