What's the most important thing to consider when choosing a sunscreen for your next surfing session? As a surfer, you know that the sun can be intense, even over water. You need a sunscreen that will protect you from those harsh UV rays without getting in the way of your ride. You've heard that mineral sunscreens are a good choice, but which one is the best? The best sunscreens for surfers are essential for protecting your skin from the sun's damaging rays, and I've got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Look for sunscreens with high SPF ratings, but don't assume higher is always better.
- Choose a water-resistant sunscreen that will stay on your skin during your surf session.
- Opt for mineral sunscreens, which use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to protect your skin.
- Select a sunscreen that is reef-safe and won't harm marine ecosystems.
- Consider a sunscreen with a matte finish to reduce glare and improve visibility.
| Top Pick for Surfers |  |
Sun Zapper Zinc Sunscreen Stick | Provides long-lasting water resistance | Convenient stick packaging | High-level SPF protection | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Water-Resistant Shield |  |
Headhunter Sunscreen Face Stick | Provides ultra-sport protection | Waterproof and water-resistant formula | Easy to apply and reapply | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Matte Finish Shield |  |
Waxhead Tinted Zinc Oxide Sunscreen | Natural, reef-safe ingredients | Water-resistant and sweat-resistant | Suitable for sensitive skin | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Zinc Shield for Surfers |  |
Sun Zapper Extreme Zinc Sticks | Provides long-lasting protection | Water-resistant and gentle on skin | Convenient to apply on-the-go | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Efficient Water Resistant Shield |  |
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen | Offers broad-spectrum protection | Water-resistant up to 80 minutes | Oxybenzone-free | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Zinc Oxide Shield |  |
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen | Provides long-lasting UV protection | Gentle on sensitive skin | Water-resistant formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Tattoo-Friendly Reef Shield |  |
H2Ocean Surfers Choice SPF 50 | Offers high SPF protection | Reef-safe for marine ecosystems | Quick-drying formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Dry-Touch Water Shield |  |
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen Spray SPF 70 | Quick absorption and dry touch | Water-resistant up to 80 minutes | Lightweight and non-greasy | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Water-Resistant Surf Shield |  |
Banana Boat Sport SPF 100 | Provides high SPF 100 protection | Offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection | Sweat and water-resistant | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Water-Resistant Shield for Travel |  |
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion | Provides excellent water-resistance | Offers high SPF protection | Gentle on sensitive skin | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Sun Zapper Zinc Sunscreen Stick
As a surfer, you need a reliable sunscreen that stays put on your skin and protects you from harsh ocean sun. Sun Zapper Extreme Zinc Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ Bronze checks both boxes with its water-resistant formula and convenient stick packaging. Its Australian-made formula features zinc oxide, a physical sunscreen that provides long-lasting protection.
This sunscreen is ideal for surfers who prioritize ease of use and effectiveness. The stick packaging makes it simple to apply sunscreen on-the-go, and its water-resistant formula ensures that it stays in place even when you're caught in a riptide. Additionally, its SPF 50+ protection provides high-level defense against UV rays.
While Sun Zapper Extreme Zinc Sunscreen Stick is a top performer, it may not be the best choice for those who prefer a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen. The stick packaging can also be a bit messy, especially if you're applying sunscreen on a wet surface.
- Brand:Sun Zapper
- Type:Zinc Oxide
- Size/Capacity:15g (0.53 oz)
- Material:Not specified
- Power/Speed:Not specified
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Australian-made formula
- Additional Feature:Water-resistant formula
- Additional Feature:Convenient stick packaging
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Headhunter Sunscreen Face Stick
For surfers who need a reliable, on-the-go sunblock, the Headhunter Sunscreen Face Stick delivers ultra-sport protection with its waterproof and water-resistant formula. Its tinted light brown color won't show up on your skin, making it perfect for everyday wear. Plus, its 80-minute water-resistance ensures you stay protected even during extended periods in the water.
This sunscreen stick is ideal for surfers who want a hassle-free application process, as it's easy to apply and reapply on the go. Another benefit is its ability to provide solar defense with an SPF of 45, which is suitable for most surfers. However, it's worth noting that this sunscreen stick is designed for facial use only, so if you're looking for a product that covers your entire body, you might want to consider something else.
The only real limitation of this product is its limited coverage area, as it's designed for facial use only. If you're looking for a sunscreen that can be applied to your neck and ears as well, you might want to consider a different product.
- Brand:Headhunter
- Type:Sunscreen stick
- Size/Capacity:Not specified
- Material:Not specified
- Power/Speed:Not specified
- Count:1 pack
- Additional Feature:Waterproof and water-resistant formula
- Additional Feature:Provides solar defense with SPF 45
- Additional Feature:Tinted light brown color for everyday wear
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Waxhead Tinted Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
This tinted zinc oxide sunscreen is perfect for surfers who want a natural, reef-safe option that won't irritate their sensitive skin. Its 4-ingredient formula makes it a great choice for those who prefer fewer, more natural ingredients in their sunscreens. The matte finish helps keep your nose and cheeks from getting greasy and attracts less sand, making it ideal for water sports.
Its water-resistant properties ensure that the sunscreen stays on your skin even when you're in the ocean. However, its effectiveness may be limited when exposed to prolonged water immersion or intense sweating. Still, it's a great option for casual surfers or those who want a more natural alternative to chemical sunscreens.
This sunscreen is also suitable for travel due to its compact 2oz size, which makes it easy to fit in a beach bag or surf bag.
- Brand:Waxhead
- Type:Zinc oxide
- Size/Capacity:2oz
- Material:Mineral
- Count:N/A
- Additional Feature:Reef-safe and eco-friendly
- Additional Feature:Matte finish for reduced sand attraction
- Additional Feature:4-ingredient natural formula
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Sun Zapper Extreme Zinc Sticks
If you're a surfer looking for a reliable zinc-based sunscreen, the Sun Zapper Extreme Zinc Sticks are a great option. These sticks offer a high level of protection, with an SPF of 50+, which provides long-lasting protection against the sun's harsh rays. The Australian-made formula is designed to provide water-resistant coverage, making it perfect for water sports.
The Sun Zapper Extreme Zinc Sticks are also mineral-based, which means they're gentler on your skin than chemical sunscreens. They're easy to apply on-the-go, and the 15g (0.53 oz) size is perfect for tossing into your beach bag. While they're not as portable as some other sunscreen options, the sticks are designed to be pocket-friendly.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Sun Zapper Extreme Zinc Sticks may not be the best option for people with sensitive skin. If you're particularly prone to irritation, you may want to consider a different sunscreen.
- Brand:Sun Zapper
- Type:Mineral-based sunscreen sticks
- Size/Capacity:15g (0.53 oz) each
- Material:Zinc oxide
- Power/Speed:N/A
- Count:3-pack
- Additional Feature:Colored for easy identification
- Additional Feature:Australian-made for high-quality formula
- Additional Feature:Water-resistant for water sports
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen
This sunscreen is perfect for surfers who prioritize lightweight, water-resistant protection without the use of oxybenzone. Its SPF 70 rating offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, providing long-lasting defense against the sun's harsh effects. Additionally, its water-resistant up to 80 minutes ensures that your skin stays protected even when you're in the water.
One of the standout strengths of this sunscreen is its lightweight and non-greasy texture, making it easy to apply and won't leave any residue on your skin. It's also oxybenzone-free, which is a great option for surfers who want to avoid this chemical in their sunscreen. However, it's worth noting that this sunscreen may not be as moisturizing as some other options, so if you have dry skin, you may need to apply additional moisturizer before or after using this sunscreen.
- Brand:Neutrogena
- Type:Lotion
- Size/Capacity:3 fl. oz
- Material:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Additional Feature:Oxybenzone-free
- Additional Feature:Lightweight and non-greasy texture
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Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
If you're a surfer with sensitive skin, you're in luck. This sunscreen provides long-lasting protection with its high SPF 50 rating, making it perfect for those who spend hours in the sun. The zinc oxide formula is also great for sensitive skin, as it's less likely to irritate than other active ingredients.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its water-resistant technology, which allows it to stay on your skin even when you're caught in a riptide. Additionally, the fragrance-free formula makes it suitable for surfers with allergies or sensitivities. However, it's worth noting that this sunscreen may not be the best choice for those who need a lot of coverage, as it comes in a relatively small 3 oz tube.
- Brand:Blue Lizard
- Type:Mineral sunscreen
- Size/Capacity:3 oz
- Material:Zinc oxide
- Power/Speed:N/A
- Count:N/A
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Smart Cap Technology for easy application
- Additional Feature:Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
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H2Ocean Surfers Choice SPF 50
This sunscreen is ideal for surfers with tattoos who need a reef-safe option. H2Ocean Surfers Choice SPF 50 boasts high SPF protection, making it a great choice for those who spend extended periods in the water. Its quick-drying formula is designed to minimize stickiness and make it easier to apply over tattoos. However, it may not be the best option for those with sensitive skin, as it contains some potential irritants.
- Brand:H2Ocean
- Type:Spray
- Size/Capacity:6 oz
- Material:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Quick-drying spray formula
- Additional Feature:Tattoo-friendly for sensitive skin
- Additional Feature:Reef-safe sun protection
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen Spray SPF 70
If you're a surfer who's sensitive to greasy sunscreen residue, Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Sunscreen Spray SPF 70 is a great option. It's lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin, making it perfect for active water sports like surfing. The broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection will help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.
This sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is a significant advantage for surfers who spend extended periods in the water. However, keep in mind that this sunscreen contains oxybenzone-free and PABA-free formulas, which may not provide the same level of protection as other sunscreens.
While this sunscreen is a great choice for many surfers, it's not ideal for those who prefer a matte finish or are looking for a zinc oxide-based sunscreen.
- Brand:Neutrogena
- Type:Spray
- Size/Capacity:3 x 5 oz
- Material:Not specified
- Power/Speed:Not specified
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Additional Feature:Oxybenzone-free and PABA-free formula
- Additional Feature:Lightweight and non-greasy spray
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Banana Boat Sport SPF 100
Banana Boat Sport SPF 100 is an excellent choice for surfers who need long-lasting sun protection in water. This sunscreen lotion offers high SPF 100 and broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Its lightweight formula makes it easy to apply and won't clog your pores.
For surfers with sensitive skin, this product is a great option. The non-comedogenic formula is less likely to cause irritation, and its sweat and water-resistant properties ensure it stays in place even when you're in the water.
However, it's worth noting that this product doesn't provide the highest water resistance on the market. If you're planning to stay in the water for an extended period, you may want to consider a product with a longer water resistance claim.
- Brand:Banana Boat
- Type:Lotion
- Size/Capacity:4 oz (2 Pack)
- Material:Not specified
- Power/Speed:Not applicable
- Count:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Offers high SPF 100 protection
- Additional Feature:Provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Additional Feature:Has a sweat and water-resistant formula
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Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion is a great choice for surfers who are always on the move. This travel-sized sunscreen offers SPF 100 protection, which is perfect for those who spend extended periods outdoors. It's also sweat, heat, and water resistant, making it an ideal companion for surfers who need a reliable shield against the elements.
One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its paraben and dye-free formula, which is a plus for surfers who have sensitive skin. Additionally, it's free of PABA, oxybenzone, and octinoxate, making it a great option for those who want to minimize their exposure to certain chemicals. However, it's worth noting that this sunscreen may not be as moisturizing as some other options on the market.
- Brand:Coppertone
- Type:Sunscreen Lotion
- Size/Capacity:3 FL OZ
- Material:Unknown
- Power/Speed:Unknown
- Count:1
- Additional Feature:Free of PABA and oxybenzone
- Additional Feature:Travel-sized for convenience
- Additional Feature:Sweat and heat resistant
Frequently Asked Questions
QUESTION: What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof sunscreens?
While both terms may seem interchangeable, water-resistant sunscreens are designed to maintain their effectiveness while you're in the water, but they may not be fully waterproof. This means that you may still need to reapply sunscreen after a certain period, even if it's labeled as water-resistant. Always check the product label to understand its water resistance level.
QUESTION: Can I use a moisturizer with SPF as a sunscreen for surfing?
While some moisturizers with SPF can provide some protection, they may not be sufficient for surfing, where you'll be exposed to intense sunlight and water. Look for a dedicated sunscreen specifically designed for water sports, as it will provide better protection and last longer.
QUESTION: Are there any sunscreens that are specifically designed for surfers?
Yes, there are sunscreens specifically designed for surfers that take into account the unique challenges of water sports. Look for products with long-lasting formulas, water-resistant ingredients, and non-greasy textures that won't interfere with your wetsuit or board.
QUESTION: Can I use a spray sunscreen for surfing?
While spray sunscreens can be convenient, they may not provide as even a layer of protection as a lotion or cream. If you do choose a spray sunscreen, make sure to apply it evenly and allow it to dry before getting in the water.
QUESTION: How often should I reapply sunscreen while surfing?
It's essential to reapply sunscreen frequently while surfing, especially if you're planning to spend an extended period in the water. Aim to reapply sunscreen every 20-30 minutes, or immediately after toweling off or getting out of the water.
