5 Best Waterproof Sunscreens For Kayaking And Other Water-Based Activities

Best Waterproof Sunscreen

Sunscreens are definitely essential amenities whenever you are exploring the outdoors on sunny weather. You see, these applications are quite effective in reducing the effects of the blazing sun in your skin. Somehow, it mitigates the harmful UV rays and makes things bearable on your part.

More...

Of course, sports like kayaking and boating requires the service of the best waterproof sunscreens. You have to consider that the water can rinse off the application from your skin, which renders it ineffective.

As early as now, I have to emphasize that there is no sunscreen that is fully waterproof or sweat-proof. The same thought applies to those sunblocks. There is no sunblock that actually blocks the sun entirely. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sees these claims as misleading and hoax.

In this post, I will show some of the most reliable sunscreens that you can get in the market today. They can survive water exposure without losing their effects. Check them out now.

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with No Chemical Ingredients SPF 30 UVA/UVB Protection, 5oz Bottle

This sunscreen is typically used by divers and ocean explorers. It has impressive "adhesiveness" that doesn't wear off easily even if you stay in the water for extended periods. The effectiveness of the Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen is something that it owes it to its chemical-free composition. It is completely safe for skin use. Furthermore, it does not cause any adverse effects on the environment.

They are microscopic minerals that are present in the ingredients of this sunscreen. These minerals act like mirrors. They form together in your skin so that they can deflect much of the heat of the sun. It has been noted as well that the formula used in this sunscreen can negate UV rays and its harmful effects.

Specifically, this application has an SPF rating of 30+ broad spectrum protection, which is more than enough to protect your skin while you are doing various water-based activities.

Pros

  • No active chemicals present
  • Uses zinc oxides to ensure that it can have broad spectrum protection
  • Friendly to the skin and the environment
  • Protection doesn't wear off even exposed in the water
  • Free from parabens and nasty odor.

Cons

  • No known issues.
Sun Bum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30 Lotion - Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB - Water Resistant & Non-Greasy Protection, SPF 30 - 8 oz. Bottle

The Sun Bum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen is a high-quality option. It is not only suitable for sports and outdoor use, but it can also work for everyday purposes. It can be used by both children and adults, which is one of its key features.

It is skin-friendly and doesn't come with harmful chemicals that can agitate those people with sensitive skin. The sunscreen is genuine hypoallergenic. Therefore, it should never trigger allergy attacks.

Furthermore, the Sun Bum guaranteed that it has a reef-friendly composition. When you dive in the water to explore those coral reefs, you can guarantee that the sunscreen will not cause harm to them. Aside from that, this application is absolutely made from vegan-certified ingredients. It is gluten-free and paraben-free, too.

Despite all these innovations, the sunscreen still works efficiently. It has a superb quality that any kayaker and water sports enthusiasts will surely love!

Pros

  • Free from harmful chemicals and allergens
  • Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free formulation to ensure maximum usability
  • Doesn't have any lingering odor
  • Safe to be exposed in the environment
  • Features skin restoration effects.

Cons

  • Difficult to scrub off from your skin.
Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Lotion, New Formula, SPF 50+, 12 Ounces

The best waterproof sunscreen doesn't have to be expensive. Some entry-level products out there are good enough to provide long-lasting sun protection to your skin. One of them is the Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Lotion.

This application has been clinically proven to work against both UVA and UVB lights. The broad spectrum protection of this sunscreen has enough potency to keep your skin protected while the blazing sun is up.

The texture and composition of this sunscreen are quite user-friendly. When you apply it to your skin, it doesn't produce that greasy or slimy feeling. Moreover, it is breathable because it doesn't stink.

Other than that, the sunscreen lotion doesn't put extra "weight" in your body. It doesn't become an inconvenience as you are moving. Overall, the Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Lotion is a perfect choice for highly active users. It has great resistance against water and sweat!

Pros

  • Remains intact to your skin even if you are exposed to water and sweat
  • Doesn't wear off from your skin quickly
  • Comes with a neutral fragrance that works well for every sensitive nose
  • Protects the skin from UVA/UVB rays
  • The formulation is safe to the environment.

Cons

  • Feels slightly greasy.
EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50, Water-Resistant, Oil-free, Dermatologist-Recommended Mineral-Based Zinc Oxide Formula, 3.0 oz

The EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen is an effective option for those who are constantly enjoying outdoors and other sports activities. Just like the first lotion that I featured, the EltaMD Sunscreen has a mineral-based composition. This simply means that there are no chemicals involved in its formulation. It can provide excellent defense against UVA and UVB rays without causing any side-effects. Of course, the sunscreen has high water-resistance so that it won't wash off when you are sweating or bathing in the ocean.

There are no allergens in this sunscreen lotion. It can be applied to both adults and children without any worries. Parabens, suspicious oils, and fragrance-inducing elements are not part of the ingredients used in this product.

Meanwhile, it has been noted that the water-resistance of this item last for up to 80 minutes. After that, you might need to re-apply the lotion again. Other than that, it can be said that the EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen is one of the finest waterproof sunscreens today. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation has even recommended this product.

Pros

  • Offers a guaranteed broad spectrum protection
  • Capable of combating free radicals that come with UVB and UVA rays
  • Doesn't have any allergy triggers
  • Remains water-resistant to your skin for 80 minutes
  • The mineral-based composition makes it safe to the skin.

Cons

  • No known issues.
Art of Sport Skin Armor Sunscreen Lotion, Waterproof, SPF 50 Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection, Oil-Free and Dry Finish, Approved to use in Hawaii, 5 oz

If you are looking for a sunscreen that can be used for severe and harsh conditions, I do recommend that you check out the Art of Sport Skin Armor Sunscreen Lotion. After all, this one is formulated for every athlete out there who constantly expose themselves in the sun.

It provides powerful protection against UVA and UVB rays so that you will never have to worry about a worn and burnt skin. Specifically, this one offers broad spectrum protection with an SPF rating of 50. The heat won't be able to touch you.

The maximum duration of this lotion is around 80 minutes, which is the same as EltaMD. It is safe to assume that this sunscreen belongs to the pinnacle when it comes to sun protection standards. If that doesn't satisfy you, then you should know that this product features health benefits for the skin. It is known to hydrate the skin so that it can avoid aging quickly.

Moreover, it helps the skin to regain its youthful luster. The weightless finish of this lotion ensures that you will not feel discomfort while it is around.

Pros

  • Provides effective defense against UVA and UVB rays
  • Free from oil and fragrance
  • No malignant chemicals are found on its composition
  • Sunscreen has a dry and non-greasy texture
  • Induces other health benefits to the skin.

Cons

  • Difficult to rub off.

Why You Need The Best Waterproof Sunscreen

Why You Need The Best Waterproof Sunscreen

Albeit the popular belief, sunscreens are actually essential for every outdoor activity. Whether you are hiking or paddling a boat, having a trustworthy lotion is quite pivotal to the overall comfort and satisfaction that you feel. Nobody among you want your skin to be burned, right? In fact, it should be included in your kayaking checklist.

Of course, some people think that sunscreens are not necessary anymore if the skies are cloudy or it is winter. This is a fallacy that should be dispelled already. The UV rays of the sun can penetrate these natural shieldings of the earth. In fact, the rays that pierce through the clouds are often the most harmful since they have the "power" to pass through these obstructions.

Wearing sunscreen can protect your skin against these harmful rays. There's no doubt about that.

But interestingly, that's not the only reason as to why you need a waterproof sunscreen. Here are some of them.

Stops Premature Aging

It is not a well-known fact that sunscreens have active components that can prevent your skin from aging prematurely. There are some studies that suggest that people below the age of 55 don't develop skin aging symptoms if they use sunscreens from time to time. On the flip side, continually exposing your skin to extreme heat without protection can cause it to dry and wrinkle. In short, sunscreens ensure that you have radiant skin.


Reduces Chances Of Skin Cancer

Sunscreens should not be viewed as just grooming or beauty amenities only. If your primary concern is taking care of your skin, then applying sunscreens from time to time is quite necessary. It is noted that melanoma is drastically reduced whenever you use sunscreens regularly. Of course, those harmful UV rays are among the things that can increase the risk factor of developing skin cancer.


Prevents Blotchiness

One of the benefits of wearing sunscreen, especially during outdoor activities, is the prevention of skin blotchiness. The latter usually happens when your skin is exposed to extreme heat for extended periods. When you have sunscreen, the irritations and eruptions of veins are prevented. Interestingly, sunscreens can also help stop the onset of acne and other damages caused by sun rays.

How To Choose The Best Waterproof Sunscreen

This time, let us explore some of the essential considerations in choosing a sunscreen. One way or another, you cannot say that all sunscreens have the qualities, effects, and composition. It is important that you know which aspects you need to prioritize.

Broad Spectrum Protection

This is more than just some fancy composition of words. The term "broad spectrum protection" is used for lotions and sunscreens that are capable of protecting the skin from UVA and UVB rays. This time, you need to know that all sunscreens must be able to protect you against UVB rays. The UVB rays are the ones that cause skin cancers and sunburns.

Meanwhile, UVA can increase the risk factor for the development of cancer. It can also lead to premature aging, which is something that you don't want to experience at all. Of course, not all sunscreens out there are certified broad spectrum. Only those items that have passed quality standard testing have the right to use such a label. Fortunately, all the sunscreens that I featured in this post have this capability.


Sun Protection Factor

The sun protection factor, or popularly known as SPF, is also a necessary aspect in choosing a sunscreen. At this point, you need to know that only sunscreens with SPF of 30 or higher are the ones that you should use for outdoor uses. When the SPF is high, it means it can provide ample protection to your skin. Specifically, it gives you a layer of protection against UV rays.

Also, you have to be aware that higher SPF numbers have a significant difference over those lower ratings. For instance, SPF 30 can screen up to 97% UVB rays, and SPF 50 can do as much as 98% UVB protection. Meanwhile, SPF 100 is approximately 99%. As you can see, their difference is just a single percentage. Furthermore, you need to realize that no sunscreens can fully block UVB rays.

Here is an interesting video that will show you the best way how to apply a sunscreen:

Bottom Line

The best waterproof sunscreen is an excellent utility for every outdoor lover. Although it is cheap and simple, the benefits that it can give to your body, specifically to your skin, is downright amazing. It does not only keep your skin from being burnt to a crisp; it also prevents your skin from deteriorating. As many studies suggest, wearing sunscreen is also proven to work against skin cancer.

So in your next kayaking and outdoor trip, make sure that you are fully clad with this application.

I hope that you learned something from this guide. If you have other questions or suggestions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.

4.8/5 - (6 votes)

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here