Everyone needs sun protection. But for some reason, men lag behind women in knowledge and understanding of skin cancer prevention – namely sun-safe behaviors and skin self-examination.
This knowledge gap has resulted in some scary statistics. One particularly startling stat is that once diagnosed, men are about 27% more likely to die from melanoma when compared to women.
This happens due to men’s poor sun protection habits and the late detection of their skin cancers which often get found when they’re beyond the point of treatment.
Men aren’t properly protecting themselves against the sun’s harmful UV rays. So let’s do something about it!
What do you need to be sufficiently protected from the sun?
You need safe and effective broad-spectrum protection. This will include wearing a hat and sunglasses, UV protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. But when you have to bare your skin, wearing a safe and effective sunscreen is a must for all men!
After careful research into what is necessary to properly protect men’s skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays, SimplySunSafe recommends thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ as the best sunscreen for men. Read on for a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table, and in-depth reviews of the top 5 sunscreens for men.
Buyer’s Guide
Listen up, guys. In order to be sure that your skin is sufficiently protected against the sun’s harmful UV rays, there are a few must-have features you should look for in your sunscreen:
Broad-spectrum protection
Whenever you are buying a sunscreen for any purpose, one of the most important features that you need is broad-spectrum protection. What this means is that the sunscreen provides balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Is this really necessary, you ask?
Yes, it is. The reason you need this protection is that each type of ultraviolet (UV) radiation works differently. UVB rays damage the outer layer of your skin leaving you burned or tanned. UVA rays breach the deepest layer of your skin (the dermis) and cause premature aging.
Even if men aren’t generally as vocal about it, nobody wants their skin to age prematurely. And that is not the only thing to be worried about. Exposure to both types of radiation increases your risk of skin cancer.
Remember, just being a man does not mean that your skin is less vulnerable to harm from the sun’s UV rays. Skin is susceptible to damage from UV rays no matter what type of body it is on. You need to make sure that you wear a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection!
There are two simple ways to identify sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection. Just check the label and the active ingredients list. On the labels of many sunscreen bottles, you will be able to find the words ‘broad spectrum’ or ‘UVA/B’, which make it very clear that they provide broad-spectrum protection.
If you don’t see these words on the label or just want to feel extra sure, you can check the ingredients list for zinc oxide. Products with the ingredient zinc oxide protect against the full range of UVA/B rays so they are a great option!
Most sunscreens that you will find provide broad-spectrum protection because the FDA made it a requirement. But hey, it never hurts to double-check the label and ingredients list!
Best SPF for men
So you’ve heard the term ‘SPF’ or read it on bottles, right? But what exactly does it mean? The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is something you definitely want to understand when searching for the best sunscreen for guys.
The SPF rating tells you what fraction of the sun’s UVB rays will reach your skin when you have applied it properly. For example, if you are wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30, then only 1/30th of the sun’s rays will reach your skin. That explains why you are able to stay in the sun longer when you wear sunscreen.
But remember that the effectiveness of a sunscreen’s SPF depends on many different factors including the time of day, amount of sunscreen you have applied properly, and even reflections from surfaces such as water or sand. This results in sunscreen needing to be reapplied at least every 2 hours and even more frequently if you sweat or get wet!
Take a look at this table to better understand how much UVB protection different SPF ratings give you:
| SPF Rating | UVB Protection |
| None | 0% |
| 2 | 50% |
| 15 | 93% |
| 30 | 97% |
| 50 | 98% |
| 100 | 99% |
Surprised by what you see?
There really is not much difference between a sunscreen with SPF 30 and one with SPF 100. For this reason, SimplySunSafe recommends that you always use a sunscreen with an SPF rating no lower than 30 and no higher than 50. Our recommendation is in line with that of the FDA.
No matter what SPF rating you use make sure you don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen every couple of hours!
Physical is better than chemical
You can divide sunscreen into two main groups – chemical and physical. The difference lies in the active ingredients of the sunscreen and in the way it works to protect your skin against harmful UV rays.
- Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays as they reach your skin.
- Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, reflect UV rays before they reach your skin.
SimplySunSafe recommends physical sunscreens over chemical ones for a few important reasons. Physical sunscreens stop more radiation reaching the skin across a broader UV spectrum. This makes them more effective, but they also:
- Work immediately upon application
- Last longer
- Are less likely to cause irritation
- Have a longer shelf life
There is also an important reason not to choose chemical sunscreens – they contain ingredients called endocrine disruptors. Need a biology recap? Let me put it simply. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that mess with your hormones.
I don’t think I need to tell you that this is not something you want. The worst of these chemicals is called oxybenzone. Be sure to check any sunscreen you’re thinking of buying, and avoid this ingredient at all costs!
To ensure you’re buying a physical sunscreen check the bottle for the words ‘physical’ or ‘mineral’. You can also take a look at the ingredients list for the active ingredients zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to make sure you’re getting a natural sunscreen.
If you’re planning to use one of SimplySunSafe’s recommended sunscreens, don’t worry! They’ve all been checked against EWG’s database. Each one is recommended for both exceptional UV protection and product safety!
Water-resistant
When it is hot outside, you sweat. This is something uncontrollable that can really interfere with your sun protection if you’re not sufficiently prepared! That is why you need to use a sunscreen that is water-resistant, guys.
Sunscreens are sold as water resistant for either 40 or 80 minutes. I suggest that men use a sunscreen that is water-resistant for 80 minutes. This means that you won’t need to worry about reapplying as often as if you were wearing a sunscreen with only 40 minutes of water resistance or none at all.
Don’t be fooled by false advertising, though! There is no such thing as ‘sweatproof’ or ‘waterproof’ sunscreen. Keep your eyes peeled for a sunscreen with 80 minutes of water resistance and find one that suits all of your personal needs. It will provide you with better protection and save you a lot of unnecessary time spent reapplying sunscreen that melted away too fast.
Rub on lotion not spray
Spray sunscreens sound really convenient and easy, but I don’t recommend them. Why? Because the safety and effectiveness of spray sunscreen is debatable.
Rub on lotion will always be far safer than spray lotion. The fact is that while your skin may be able to handle the chemicals in sunscreen, your internal lung tissue simply cannot. And using a spray sunscreen puts you at great risk of inhaling the chemicals into your lungs.
Not only is spray sunscreen less safe than the rub-on lotion, but it is also less effective. With spray sunscreens, you just do not have enough control to apply a sufficient and evenly spread layer of product to your skin. This results in insufficient sun protection, the opposite of what we’re aiming for.
So don’t be tempted by the seemingly easy style of spray sunscreens. Rub on lotions are safer and more effective, and are the better choice for men’s skin in the long run!
Best Sunscreen for Men Comparison
 thinksport Sunscreen |
 BADGER Sport Sunscreen |
 BurnOut Ocean Tested |
 Banana Boat Men Triple Defense |
 Raw Elements Eco Formula |
|
| SPF | 50+ | 35 | 30 | 50 | 30 |
| Broad-spectrum | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Active ingredients | Zinc Oxide (20%) | Zinc Oxide (22.5%) | Zinc Oxide (20%) | Oxybenzone (6%) Homosalate (15%) Octocrylene (1.2%) | Zinc Oxide (23%) |
| 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 Men
After extensive research into the needs of men’s skin which included discussing issues with customers, reviewing customer feedback, examining manufacturer specifications, and participating in skincare forums, SimplySunSafe has chosen the 5 best sunscreens for men. Each product provides broad spectrum, physical protection of SPF 30 or greater, and is water resistant. They are all free of oxybenzone, available in rub on lotions, and suitable for daily use.
1. thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+
- First sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements and top-rated by EWG since creation in 2010 with a “1” rating. Recipient of a tremendous amount of awards
- Free of biologically harmful chemicals like avobenzone, oxybenzone, paraben, phthalates, PABA, 1,4 dioxane, and UV chemical absorbers
- Highly effective with an SPF at 50+. Highest level of water resistance per the FDA (80-minute water resistance) and broad-spectrum coverage for UVA and UVB
- Reef Friendly: Free of known reef damaging chemicals and highly biodegradable. Non-nano zinc oxide formulation, non-aerosol formulation
- Applies and absorbs easily without the oily feeling or obtrusive smell of traditional sunscreens. Leaping Bunny certified cruelty free, gluten free & vegan
Last update on 2020-04-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
thinksport Sunscreen has taken the top spot as SimplySunSafe’s best sunscreen for men! This product provides broad-spectrum protection through the use of a high concentration of its active ingredient zinc oxide (20%). It also provides you with the highest marketable level of UVB protection (SPF 50+) so that you don’t have to worry so much about your skin burning.
Thinksport Sunscreen is extremely safe and was actually the first sunscreen to pass Whole Foods premium care requirements. The formula is free of parabens, phthalates, and PABA so it is gentle enough for men to use every day without experiencing irritation or dryness. The product has an unobtrusive smell that is not bothersome.
This sunscreen comes in a rub-on lotion and is a thick cream. Although it is thick, customers report that it is easy to apply and absorbs into the skin very well. Men will need to spend some time and effort rubbing the cream in properly, but once it’s been rubbed in, it will not leave a white cast. One of the most important things about this formula is that it will not leave your skin greasy or oily. For this reason, it is the best sunscreen for men with oily skin.
Thinksport Sunscreen is water-resistant for 80 minutes. And this isn’t just a label, it really stays put even with heavy sweating. It is very reasonably priced and provides all the necessities a man needs in his sunscreen. This is a durable sunscreen that men can rely on!
If you love this sunscreen and want value for money, it also comes in a 6-ounce version so you get more bang for your buck.
- Durable 80-minute water resistance
- A high concentration of zinc oxide
- High SPF rating
- Very affordable
- The thick formula requires effort to rub in properly
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 2020-04-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another excellent option for sun protection for men’s skin is BADGER Sport Sunscreen. This is a physical product that provides broad-spectrum protection through a very high concentration of its active ingredient zinc oxide (22.5%).
This sunscreen is so good, we named it the best sunscreen for sports.
BADGER Sport Sunscreen is a thick, rub on sunscreen, which is chemical and fragrance-free. In total, it has just 5 ingredients. Its other four ingredients: organic sunflower oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil, and sunflower Vitamin E are all conditioning ingredients that make this product the best sunscreen for men with dry skin.
This sunscreen provides you with the highest level of water resistance (80 minutes) and you won’t have problems with the sunscreen running during water activities or intense physical exercise. This is really important for the functionality of men’s sunscreen.
The effective and moisturizing protection that this sunscreen provides for men makes it more than worth its price. BADGER Sport Sunscreen is just as good of an option as our number one pick, thinksport Sunscreen, and landed at number two because it does tend to leave a slight white cast. However, take the time to test BADGER Sport Sunscreen out because it may be the best choice for you!
BADGER Sport also comes as a roll-on stick. It’s the same awesome formula as the lotion, so if you prefer the convenience of stick sunscreens, check out this version!
- 80-minute water resistance
- Moisturizing ingredients for dry skin
- A high concentration of zinc oxide
- Reasonably priced
- Thick formula
- Slight white cast
3. BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical 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 2020-04-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical Sunscreen is a good option for men’s sun protection. This sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection with its active ingredient zinc oxide (20%). This product is very popular with men and has considerable support in online communities that discuss men’s skincare because of its amazing protection.
The sunscreen’s formula is free from PABA, chemicals, and parabens. BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical Sunscreen is a vegan product, which makes it user-friendly for just about everyone who comes across it. It also includes skin conditioning ingredients such as aloe vera and tocopherols (a type of Vitamin E).
Just as men will want, this sunscreen provides 80 minutes of durable water resistance. Sweating will not create issues with the product’s effectiveness. The formula has a smooth consistency, but does require some effort to rub into your skin. On darker skin tones, it is likely that this product will leave a slight white cast.
BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical Sunscreen is a very reasonably priced and effective option for sun protection for men. You may want to test this sunscreen out in your search for the best sunscreen for you.
- 80-minute water resistance
- Very affordable
- High concentration of zinc oxide
- Smooth consistency
- Requires effort to rub into skin
- White cast on darker skin tones
4. Banana Boat Men Triple Defense Broad Spectrum Sun Care Sunscreen Lotion SPF50+
- Banana Boat for Men Triple Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 6 oz
Last update on 2020-07-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Banana Boat SPF50 sunscreen is an active sunscreen intended for men. It offers heavy-duty sun protection and it contains an Active Protect innovation which provides protection that activates with the temperature. This ensures that you get maximum protection regardless of how hot the sun gets. It protects well against both UVA and UVB rays. It is said to be capable of, blocking around 98% of the sun’s UV rays. It additionally contains aloe vera and vitamin E to help strengthen your skin, keeping it hydrated, creamy and silky. The Skin Cancer Foundation approved it as an effective broad-spectrum sunscreen.
It is a perfect complementary product for those that are always outdoors, that do sports or whose jobs keep them physically active. It is sweat-resistant and waterproof, it will not run into your eyes, and it lasts for up to 80 minutes of swimming. It does not cause white streaks and is great for tans.
It is an odor-neutralizing product. No matter how heavy you sweat, it will keep you fresh smelling. One thoughtful thing about the perfume is that it has a manly scent. Unlike other products that have flowerlike scents, the aftershave like smell is a welcome idea. At the same time, the smell is so strong that it overpowers the smell of the cologne person is wearing. In all, this is a great product that serves both practical and aesthetic reasons!
- Great manly scent
- Moisturizes and hydrates the skin
- Nongreasy
- No zinc oxide
5. 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
- CERTIFIED ORGANIC NATURAL 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 packaging. Protect yourself and the environment!
Last update on 2020-04-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The last product to make SimplySunSafe’s list is a good option for men’s sun protection, as well. This physical sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection with the highest concentration of active ingredient on this list – zinc oxide (23%).
This sunscreen is made to be used on all types of skin, including men’s. It is hypoallergenic and all-natural. It even includes many ingredients that work to condition skin including organic cocoa butter and all-natural vitamin E. It is a thick formula that will require time to rub into your skin and may leave a white cast.
The best thing about this sunscreen for men is that it is very water-resistant (80 minutes). It is durable and reliable when it comes to possible difficulties with sweating or water activities.
Another good thing about this product is that it is biodegradable and so it is very environment-friendly! It is slightly pricey, which is part of the reason why it has landed last on our list, but the quality is worth the price.
Raw Elements Eco Form Sunscreen is a great product overall, and you should definitely try it out to see if it may be for you!
- 80-minute water resistance
- Environment-friendly product
- A high concentration of zinc oxide
- Think formula may leave a white cast
- Slightly pricey
Conclusion
This guide was written for those who are searching for the best sunscreen for men. I hope that by reading this guide you gained more knowledge about what is necessary for protecting men’s skin from the sun and have found a protect that fits your needs!
SimplySunSafe recommends thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+, but all 5 of the sunscreens recommended will provide sufficient and durable sun protection for men.
Keep in mind that it is always a good idea to test a few products when searching for the best one for you. After you have tried different sunscreens, you will better understand what your skin needs. Then you will be able to pick the product that best fits your daily life.
I love learning new things and hearing about new products from other people. So if you use or know of any other sunscreens for men, please let me know in the comments. I’ll take a look at the products and might even add them to this list!
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