Waterproof Sunscreen: How To Pick & Apply for Amazing Skin This Summer

Summer is upon us. Say hello to days at the beach, picnics with your crew, and summer festivals galore! While we all love having fun in the sun, there is a downside to catching all those rays. Too much sun can wreak havoc on your skin. So to make the most of the sunshine, you’ve got to apply and reapply your waterproof sunscreen! Are you using the right sunscreen for your skin type? And are you reapplying sunscreen throughout the day to protect your skin? 

Here is our guide to picking and applying waterproof sunscreen, so you can make the most of your summer!

What Are The Different Types of Sunscreen?

I’m sure you’ve heard a million times that you have to wear sunscreen. So much so that it’s probably become an essential step in your morning beauty routine. But did you know that there are different types of sunscreen? The two types of sunscreen – mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen both protect your skin from UV rays. But they use different processes to filter the rays and protect your skin from damage. What’s the difference and what one should you choose? Let’s dive in.

Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreen, as you may have guessed – uses minerals as its active ingredients to protect the skin from the sun’s UV rays. Those minerals being titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Mineral sunscreens sit on top of your skin and work by providing a physical barrier that reflects UV rays. Mineral sunscreens are also known as physical sunscreen because of the protective barrier they form on top of your skin.

Since they create a physical barrier, mineral sunscreens get to work protecting your skin from the get-go. That means you can go outside and enjoy the sun as soon as you’ve applied your sunscreen. With that said, mineral sunscreens can create a white cast on your skin. Plus, mineral sunscreens can be rinsed and sweated off, so frequent touch-ups are a necessity.

Chemical Sunscreen

A chemical sunscreen uses chemicals as its active ingredients to protect the skin from the sun’s UV rays. Some chemicals found in chemical sunscreens include avobenzone, oxybenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, and octocrylene. These chemicals work by absorbing the sun’s UV rays. By chemical reaction, the sunscreen dissolves them, protecting your skin from damage.

Unlike mineral sunscreen, chemical sunscreen must be absorbed into your skin before it can offer any protection. That means that you have to plan ahead and apply your chemical sunscreen 30 minutes before going into the sun. Chemical sunscreen can cause a reaction and irritation in people with sensitive skin. But, it does mean that fewer touch-ups are needed, and it doesn’t leave a white cast residue.

How to Choose Waterproof Sunscreen

Hopefully, you’ve decided whether a mineral or a chemical sunscreen is the right choice for you. But if you’re still on the fence, here are some things to consider. 

Do you want instant protection from the sun without having to wait for your sunscreen to absorb? Do you prefer a natural, mineral-based sunscreen that won’t cause irritation or reaction? If this is the case, mineral sunscreen is for you.

Or perhaps you’re after a sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white cast? Or a sunscreen that requires fewer touch-ups and doesn’t leave a residue on your skin? If so, chemical sunscreen is for you.

Handpicked Selection of Waterproof Sunscreen

Don’t worry, we won’t leave you hanging without providing our handpicked favorite waterproof sunscreen recommendations!

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

Sun Bums dermatologist-approved sunscreen is oil-free, water-resistant, and reef-friendly! Plus, it’s packed with hydrating ingredients like vitamin E to nourish your skin. 

EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion

This UV sport sunscreen is perfect for outdoor activities like beach volleyball and surfing! This mineral sunscreen won’t rinse off or get into your eyes when you sweat. Phew.

Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen

Neutrogena’s mineral sunscreen is perfect for those with sensitive skin. It is fragrance, oil-free and hypoallergenic, providing a gentle and non-irritating formula to stay safe in the sun. 

Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion

Play Everyday by Supergoop! promises to leave no white cast or sticky residue. On top of that, it’s lightweight, water-resistant, and formulated with clean, reef-safe ingredients. 

How do you Apply Sunscreen?

Applying sunscreen sounds easy enough, but most people aren’t applying the right amount to protect their skin. If you’re applying sunscreen to your face alone, aim for a heaped teaspoon amount. I know it sounds like a lot, but you can rest assured that you won’t come home with a painful sunburn! For the best application, apply your sunscreen after your moisturizer and before your foundation. And don’t forget to protect your lips too with an SPF lip balm.

Has your foundation ever changed shades or looked a little off after applying it over your sunscreen? Check out our article here, to save your look!

How Often Should You Reapply Sunscreen?

As a general rule of thumb, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially if you are outside or doing physical activity. If you’re swimming and wearing mineral sunscreen, it’s best to reapply your sunscreen as soon as you’ve come out of the water.

However, if you work indoors, away from windows, you may not need a second application. It’s always best to tread with caution though. So if you’re taking your lunch break in the park, or walking home in the afternoon, make sure you reapply your sunscreen.

To be extra sun-safe, carry a bottle of sunscreen, your sunglasses and a wide brim hat for those beautiful sunny days! And remember, the sun can do damage even if you are wearing sunscreen! So to protect your skin, stay in the shade wherever possible.

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