10 Best Waterproof Sunscreens 2025 in the United States

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 is a strong contender in the waterproof sunscreen category, particularly for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Its SPF 46 offers high-level sun protection, and it includes broad-spectrum coverage to shield against both UVA and UVB rays. The formulation is oil-free and includes beneficial ingredients like Zinc Oxide and Niacinamide, which help soothe skin and prevent breakouts, making it ideal for individuals with acne, rosacea, or hyperpigmentation issues.

The transparent lotion blends easily without leaving a white cast, a common concern with zinc oxide sunscreens. Its 1.7 oz pump bottle is travel-friendly, ensuring you can easily reapply on the go. Additionally, it can be worn alone or under makeup, providing versatility for daily use. This sunscreen is fragrance-free, lightweight, and non-greasy, making it suitable for oily and sensitive skin types.

The Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, making it a strong choice for anyone needing reliable sun protection. With its SPF 50 rating, it offers high-level protection from the sun's harmful rays. It is also water and sweat resistant for up to 80 minutes, ideal for active outdoor activities and water sports.

The formulation is lightweight and breathable, ensuring it doesn't feel greasy or heavy on the skin, which enhances user comfort during application and wear. Additionally, it is free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are ingredients some users may prefer to avoid due to potential health concerns. This makes it a safer option for those with sensitive skin or who are looking for a more environmentally friendly product.

The fact that it comes in a convenient spray format makes it easy to apply evenly, which can be particularly helpful when you need to cover large areas of the body quickly. However, it's important to note that it has a distinctive banana scent, which might not be appealing to everyone. Moreover, the 80-minute water resistance duration, while good, may require reapplication if staying in the water or sweating heavily for extended periods. The Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is suitable for both family use and more intense outdoor activities, providing reliable sun protection in a user-friendly format.

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is designed for those who love spending time in the sun. It offers a high level of sun protection with an SPF of 50, which is good for preventing sunburn. The spray is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for activities like swimming and sweating. It provides broad spectrum protection, meaning it shields against both UVA and UVB rays, which is essential for comprehensive sun protection.

The formulation is moisturizing and includes Vitamin E, which is beneficial for skin health. It is also free from harmful chemicals like Octinoxate and Oxybenzone, making it compliant with Hawaii's 104 Reef Act, which aims to protect marine life. This sunscreen is vegan and free from gluten, cruelty, and parabens, making it a more ethical choice for consumers concerned about these aspects. It is designed to be non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, and is suitable for all skin types.

Application is straightforward—spray 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours or after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating for best results. Some users appreciate the 'summer' scent it has, though this may be a matter of personal preference. A potential drawback is the need for frequent reapplication, especially during extended outdoor activities. Additionally, some users may find the spray format less convenient compared to lotions, particularly in windy conditions. This product is ideal for anyone looking for high SPF, water-resistant sunscreen that is also environmentally friendly and suitable for a variety of skin types.