There are a lot of reasons that you might find yourself exposed to the sun for long periods of time. Maybe you work outside, you’re on vacation, or you simply live in a sunny climate.
Whatever your reasoning, it’s important to think about how your skin is being protected during all the time you spend in the sun.
Perhaps you haven’t thought about it too much, but the truth is that the sun’s UV rays are affecting your skin whenever you are exposed to it. That’s right, even if you’re not relaxing and sunbathing on a beach, you are still vulnerable to damage from harmful UV rays.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) reminds you that you want to apply sunscreen to all bare skin and reapply at least every two hours. Don’t feel intimidated! Maybe it feels like a lot to think about on a daily basis, but I assure you, it doesn’t need to be.
Let me help you figure out what you need in a sunscreen to protect your skin when you spend a lot of time in the sun.
After deep exploration into how to protect your skin when you’re in the sun a lot, SimplySunSafe recommends Raw Elements Eco Formula Sunscreen SPF 30 as the best sunscreen for long exposure. Keep reading ahead for a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table, and in-depth reviews of the top 5 sunscreens for long exposure.
Buyer’s Guide
The fact of the matter is that when you’re in the sun for a long time you’re more vulnerable to damage. Search for these must-have features in your sunscreen for the most reliable protection:
Broad spectrum protection
There is one thing about sunscreen that you should imprint to your memory for good. That is that you want sunscreens that provide broad spectrum protection. This means that you receive balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Were you aware that there are two different types of UV rays? They work differently:
- UVB rays are the ones you think about because they damage the outer layer of your skin and cause you to tan or burn.
- UVA rays may not be in the forefront of your mind now, but they will later as they penetrate the deepest layer of your skin (the dermis) and cause premature aging.
Neither type of ray is good news. Exposure to both types increases your risk of skin cancer. So you can understand why it’s necessary to have proper protection against both.
When you’re spending a long period of time in the sun, broad spectrum protection will keep your skin as safe as possible.
Best SPF for Long Exposure
So you can probably guess from what I said before, that the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) refers to protection from UVB rays. I’m guessing that’s a lot more than you understood about SPF before reading this guide. SPF is one of those things that is deemed important without enough education attached.
Let’s break it down simply. The SPF tells you the fraction of the sun’s rays that will reach your skin if you have properly applied your sunscreen. Seriously, proper application matters.
So that means if you’re wearing a sunscreen with an SPF of 50, then just 1/50th of the sun’s UVB rays will reach your skin. Wait! Don’t rush out into the sun just yet.
Wearing a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 does not make it safe to stay in the sun 50 times longer than if you weren’t wearing any sunscreen.
I repeat, simply applying a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 does not make long exposure to the sun safe. There are many factors that influence the effectiveness of SPF including time of day, amount of properly applied sunscreen, and even reflections from surrounding surfaces like water or sand. So you need to stay on top of your protection practices!
Here’s a simple table that will explain how much protection you get with different SPFs:
| SPF Rating | UVB Protection |
| None | 0% |
| 2 | 50% |
| 15 | 93% |
| 30 | 97% |
| 50 | 98% |
| 100 | 99% |
Feeling betrayed by marketing yet? As you can see, there is a very little difference between an SPF of 30 and one of 100. How do you know, then, which is the best choice of SPF for long exposure to the sun?
Well, the AAD recommends choosing sunscreens with SPFs no lower than 30 and no higher than 50 no matter what the situation is. SimplySunSafe feels that this guideline is reasonable and practical and that’s why we too recommend sunscreens that fall within that SPF range.
But take note in your mind. When it comes to long exposure to the sun, the most important part of your skin protection is remembering to reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours to all bare skin!
Physical is better than chemical
Another matter to consider with any sunscreen you buy is which type you will use. Yes, there are different types, two main ones to be clear — physical and chemical. The important differences between these two types lie in their active ingredients and in the ways they work to protect your skin.
Which sounds better to you? A chemical sunscreen which absorbs UV rays as they reach your skin, or a physical sunscreen which reflects UV rays before they reach your skin? It’s kind of an obvious choice, right?
But there are many other reasons that you should choose physical sunscreens over chemical ones whenever possible. Physical sunscreens:
- Work immediately upon application
- Last longer
- Are less likely to cause irritation
- Have a longer shelf life
If you’re still on the fence, listen to this. Chemical sunscreens often contain ingredients that mess with your hormones. You do not want that kind of sunscreen on your skin for a long period of time in the sun! The worst of these ingredients is called oxybenzone, and is still legal despite concerns from the FDA.
Choose safety for your long chunks of time in the sun and use physical sunscreens!
Zinc oxide as active ingredient
Remember how broad spectrum protection is the most important factor in choosing a sunscreen? Well, I want to tell you about the active ingredient which always provide you with the best sun protection.
It’s a physical ingredient called zinc oxide. The reason it is so desirable is because it protects against the full range of UVA and UVB rays. You can’t beat that!
Zinc oxide is as good as it gets, but prepare yourself. Sunscreens with zinc oxide as their active ingredient tend to leave your skin with a bit of a white cast. It’s the mark of proper protection! Maybe keep some makeup around to cover it up, if you want.
One of the best ways to minimize your risk of damage from long exposure to the sun is to use sunscreens with zinc oxide as an active ingredient. The more zinc oxide, the better!
Water resistance
If you’re exposed to the sun for a long period of time, then there is always a chance that you will find yourself sweating at some point. If the weather is warm, then this is a definite!
Sweating can cause problems for your sun protection if you’re not prepared. That is why it’s a good idea to use sunscreens that provide water resistance if you will be in the sun for quite a long time.
Sunscreens are available with water resistance for 40 or 80 minutes. The choice is yours. Just consider the climate and what you will be doing. If it’s a humid climate or you will be doing any strenuous activity, then you’ll want to go for the 80 minutes of water resistance for extra protection.
Minimize your worry in the sun by choosing water resistant sunscreens.
Best Sunscreen for Long Exposure Comparison
| Raw Elements Eco Formula |
 Badger Sport Sunscreen |
 thinksport Sunscreen |
 BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical |
 Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc |
|
| SPF | 30 | 30 | 30 | 50+ | 30 |
| Broad spectrum | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Active ingredients | Zinc Oxide (23%) | Zinc Oxide (22.5%) | Zinc Oxide (20%) | Zinc Oxide (20%) | Zinc Oxide (18.4%) |
| Water resistance | 80 minutes | 80 minutes | 80 minutes | 80 minutes | 80 minutes |
| Price | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon |
5 Best Sunscreens for Long Exposure
After thorough research into sufficient protection during long exposure to the sun 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 long exposure.
Each sunscreen provides physical, broad spectrum protection with an SPF of 30 or greater. All products contain zinc oxide as an active ingredient and are water resistant!
If you’re going to get long exposure in a specific setting, SimplySunSafe has a range of specific guides you might want to check out. For example, you might need the best sunscreen for tanning, the most appropriate sunscreen for hiking, or the most sweat resistant sunscreen for running. To find a long exposure sunscreen for your needs, just search for your specific activity at the top of this page.
1. Raw Elements Eco Formula Sunscreen SPF 30
- EWG TOP-RATED SUNSCREEN – Performance-driven face and body sun protection lasts up to 80 minutes and does not run or sting your eyes
- DAILY USE FOR ALL AGES – Gentle, moisturizing formula can be used as part of your daily skin care routine and is gentle enough for kids
- NATURAL AND ORGANIC MINERAL SUNSCREEN – Soy, gluten and nut free, contains no synthetic chemicals and packed with nourishing antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, so your skin stays protected long after environmental exposure
- SPF 30+ BROAD-SPECTRUM PROTECTION – With a sole active ingredient of 23% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, our Face + Body Lotion 30+ provides UVA-UVB true broad-spectrum coverage
- SAFE FOR OUR PLANET – Reef-safe, Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, non-GMO and biodegradable in recyclable plastic-free bio-resin tube. Protect yourself and the environment!
Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SimplySunSafe’s first choice for sunscreen for long exposure is Raw Elements Eco Formula Sunscreen. This reliable formula provides stellar broad spectrum protection with a very high concentration of active ingredient zinc oxide (23%).
Don’t worry about what type of skin you have. Raw Elements is a formula that is gentle enough for daily use on all types of skin. It even contains ingredients such as vitamin E and green tea that will nourish your skin, as well as protect it.
As you can probably guess from the high concentration of zinc oxide, you will be left with a white cast. Luckily Raw Elements dries quickly and works very well under makeup.
Long exposure in hot and humid weather won’t be an issue with Raw Elements as it provides 80 minutes of durable water resistance, as well.
If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly, gentle, and effective sunscreen for long exposure, Raw Elements is an excellent choice!
- High concentration of zinc oxide (23%)
- 80 minutes of water resistance
- Gentle and nourishing
- Leaves a white cast
2. Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35
- SIMPLY THE SAFEST SPORT SUNSCREEN - Badger sets the standard for simple safe sunscreens that protect you and your family. This broad spectrum mineral sunscreen has only 5 simple ingredients: non-nano zinc oxide, organic sunflower oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil, & sunflower vitamin E. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic & fragrance-free this all natural sports sunscreen is perfect for sensitive skin and all skin types.
- PROTECTS WITH THE MINERAL ZINC OXIDE - Badger’s SPF 35 Unscented Sport Sunscreen Cream uses non-nano, large particle zinc oxide which stays on top of your skin, scattering and absorbing UVA & UVB rays, and won’t absorb into your bloodstream. Naturally water and sweat resistant for at least 80 minutes, perfect for swimming, surfing, skiing, and other sports.
- REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN - Safe for coral means safe for you too! Badger sunscreens are made without oxybenzone or any chemicals shown to harm coral or humans. All Badger sunscreen lotions and creams are top rated for safety and efficacy by the EWG sunscreen guide. This eco-friendly biodegradable sunscreen protects you without endangering marine life.
- 98% ORGANIC INGREDIENTS FOR HEALTHY SKIN - The certified organic sunscreen base ingredients are antioxidant rich, ultra-moisturizing, and great for your skin. Non-GMO, fragrance free, and contains no dyes, parabens, or other artificial ingredients. Healthy botanical ingredients promote healthy skin.
- A BRAND YOU CAN TRUST - Badger is a family owned, women run B Corporation (Benefit Corp) making mineral sport sunscreens and other organic skin care products that we use on our own families in rural New Hampshire since 1995. We are the leaders in safe natural sunscreens. Don't just take our word for it, read our ingredients, see what others say about Badger sunscreens, and try them for yourself.
Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another extremely reliable sunscreen for long exposure is Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35. This sunscreen also uses a high concentration of active ingredient zinc oxide (22.5%) to provide you with broad spectrum protection.
Badger is a great option if you have very sensitive skin and don’t like to apply too many products. The formula is made of a total of only 5 all-natural ingredients, is very gentle, and will not cause any irritation.
Expect your skin to be left looking a bit white with this thick formula. Wear it as a badge of honor, or easily cover it up with some makeup or powder.
Badger protects you in all circumstances with its 80 minutes of water resistance. And if you’re specifically trying to protect the younger members of your family for long periods of time in the sun, check out Badger’s baby and kids formulas.
- Very high concentration of zinc oxide (22.5%)
- 80 minutes of water resistance
- Simple and gentle formula even for sensitive skin
- Will leave white cast on skin
3. thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+
- SAFE, NATURAL PROTECTION: Thinksport sunscreen provides effective sun protection for athletes, sports and active use. The broad spectrum UVA & UVB sun cream is suitable for daily use on even sensitive skin, offering gentle defense against the sun’s rays.
- EASY APPLICATION: The hydrating body and face sun cream is quick and easy to apply, and protection from the sun begins instantly. The fast absorbing SPF 50+ sun lotion won’t leave your skin feeling oily or sticky, and has no unpleasant chemical scent.
- CLEAN MINERAL FORMULA: The first sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, Thinksport vegan, Leaping Bunny certified sun creams contain no PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals.
- WATER RESISTANT: Ideal sunscreen for sport and other activities that make you sweat. Our sun cream provides the highest water resistance per the FDA, offering continuous protection for up to 80 minutes in the pool or sea before the sunscreen should be re-applied.
- REEF FRIENDLY: Safe for you, and safe for the earth. Produced in the USA, our sunscreen’s active ingredient is non-nano Zinc Oxide, and the formula is highly biodegradable, non toxic and does not contain any known chemicals harmful to coral reefs.
Last update on 2023-05-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If safety is your number one concern, then it’s thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ that you want. This was the first sunscreen to pass the Whole Food premium care requirements. Broad spectrum protection if provided through a high concentration of zinc oxide (20%) for excellent coverage.
Thinksport may sound rugged, but it’s formula is gentle enough to be used daily on all types of skin. The formula is thick, needs to be rubbed in well, and leaves a slight cast. But once it has dried, you can cover it up if you prefer.
Thinksport can be used throughout the year and in all different weather conditions, as it provides 80 minutes of strong water resistance.
Another company that cares about your whole family, you can protect your little ones with thinksport’s Kids Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ and with thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+.
Your skin will be safe during its long exposure to the sun with thinksport!
- High concentration of zinc oxide (20%)
- 80 minutes of water resistance
- Available in Kids and Baby formulas
- Leaves slight white cast on skin
4. BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical Sunscreen SPF 30
- UVA / UVB broad-spectrum protection.
- Very water resistant.
- 18.6% Zinc Oxide.
- Chemical-free, biodegradeable, ocean-safe, eco-sensitive.
- Paraben-free, petroleum-free, paba-free.
Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
BurnOut Physical Ocean Tested Sunscreen SPF 30 provides a strong option for protection in long exposure to the sun. This formula is yet another that provides broad spectrum protection with a high concentration of zinc oxide (20%).
BurnOut’s name sounds very strong, and it is. It will endure your long exposure to the sun very well. But don’t worry, it will not be rough on your skin. It is a gentle cream that works well on all skin types, rubs in and dries well.
The slight white cast it leaves can easily be covered up with makeup or powder, if it bothers you. BurnOut’s 80 minutes of water resistance will serve you well in protecting against sweating or water activities when you’re in the sun for a long time.
A simple yet effective sunscreen, BurnOut could be the right choice for you!
- High concentration of zinc oxide (20%)
- Gentle on all skin types
- 80 minutes of water resistance
- Likely to leave slight white cast
5. Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Lotion SPF 30
- 100% GOOD FOR YOU & YOUR FAMILY: A fast-absorbing, non-whitening & lightweight sunblock for very sensitive skin. Water resistant and perfect for babies.
- FORMULATED FOR VERY SENSITIVE SKIN: This sunscreen is specifically developed with zinc to provide you with 80 minutes of water and sweat resistant coverage. Fragrance free.
- ZINC-BASED, MINERAL FORMULA: Specially formulated to naturally protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, this sunblock is oxybenzone and octinoxate free. Enriched with Babo's organic Nutri-Soothe Complex.
- NO HARSH CHEMICALS OR IRRITANTS: Dermatologist tested to reduce risk of allergic reactions. Clinically tested and rated number #1 in safety by Environment Working Group (EWG). Gluten, soy, dairy, peanut, almond, walnut free. Made in USA. B Corp Certified.
- GENTLE ENOUGH FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY: Apply liberally before sun exposure. Reapply at least every two hours or after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating.
Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Lotion is SimplySunSafe’s last recommendation for long exposure to the sun, but it may be your first choice. This formula provides broad spectrum protection with a reasonably high concentration of zinc oxide (18.4%).
One of the biggest reasons that you may be interested in Babo Botanicals is because the specific type of zinc oxide that is used in the formula is likely to leave a white cast on your skin than other types. If you rub in Babo Botanicals very well, there is a good chance that the sunscreen will not be noticeable.
Other than that, it is an effective formula yet hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it gentle enough for all skin types. Don’t worry about irritation with Babo Botanicals.
You are covered against sweat with 80 minutes of water resistance. And you can use this formula on yourself or the younger members of your family, as it is safe for all ages!
- Gentle enough for all skin types
- 80 minutes of water resistance
- Less likely to leave white cast
- Lower zinc oxide concentration
Conclusion
You’ve reached the end of this guide written for those seeking the best sunscreen for long exposure. I hope that by reading this, you learned more about what you need in sunscreens to protect you for long periods of time in the sun. Even better would be if you found a product to fit your specific needs!
SimplySunSafe recommends Raw Elements Eco Formula Sunscreen SPF 30, but all 5 products on the list are excellent and reliable choices for long exposure to the sun.
Before you decide on one sunscreen, you should test a few out. Sunscreens react differently with everyone’s skin. You want to figure out what your skin needs and wants before choosing the product you’ll use everyday.
If you use or know of another sunscreen that’s great for long exposure, feel free to share it in the comments. I really love hearing from others in the community. I’ll check out the sunscreen you suggest and maybe even add it to this list!
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