For some of us, it’s the number one summer skincare question: what to wear to protect your skin at the beach or when swimming outdoors? It’s even more important if you have small children in and out of the water all day, whose sensitive skin requires protection. Naturally we reach for “waterproof” sunscreen.
Sadly, there is no true “waterproof” sunscreen. However, advances in skin research have allowed the formulation of sunscreens that adhere well to skin, better than ever before. We call these “water resistant” and “highly water resistant” sunscreens.
To qualify as a “water resistant” sunscreen, the product must provide 40 minutes of protection of water exposure or heavy perspiration. One you might like to try is Anthelios 50+ Melt-In Cream, which resists water while moisturizing the skin. The texture is rich and ultra-comfortable, making it a real pleasure to wear.
If you have kids, the application and reapplication of sunscreen can be a chore. Try a convenient method like Anthelios SPF 45 Spray. Like all our Anthelios products, this is formulated with Mexoryl SX and XL, providing the gold standard in broad-spectrum UV care.
“Highly water-resistant” products should protect you for 80 minutes while swimming. The number one product for highly water-resistant sun protection is the mexoryl-based Anthelios W Gel SPF 30. It forms a flexible barrier against moisture, making it outstandingly effective for swimming. It may be too effective if you’re engaging in outdoor sports which have you sweating a lot — some of our customers find the water-resistant barrier uncomfortable while exercising.
Ombrelle and Anthelios both make convenient stick sunblocks which are water-resistant: try Anthelios Targeted Stick SPF 60. You can tuck it in the strap of your swimsuit, and you’ll be ready to touch up as needed.
Note that water-resistant and highly water-resistant sunscreens don’t make reapplication unnecessary. You will still have to reapply to maximize the product’s effectiveness. And don’t forget to protect those lips! Light refraction from water increases the damage caused to sensitive areas. Visit our range of suncare lip balms here.
