When you’re looking to protect yourself and your family from the dangers of sun exposure, both regular and sports sunscreen are going to do the trick. That means that whichever you apply to your skin, they’re both going to offer enough of a barrier. But do the two types exist in isolation? Well, as the name suggests, the sports variety is geared towards sporty people.
In this article, we take a look at how the formula of sunscreen for sports people has been designed for the very specific needs of people who spend a lot of time outdoors getfont.
The Differences in the Sports Sunscreen Formula
What is it that people tend to do when they’re being sporty? That’s right, they sweat! That’s why the main difference between sports sunscreen and regular types is that they tend to be water resistant so that the coverage they provide doesn’t simply slide off you as you perspire birdzpedia.
Sun protection is particularly problematic for people who swim competitively, as the water also washes away the sunscreen you apply. As such, the FDA states that in order for a product to be able to be described as ‘water resistant’, it needs to provide the SPF level on the bottle for 40 to 80 minutes after moisture has come into contact with the skin.
Regular sunscreens just can’t offer this kind of protection, meaning that when the skin becomes wet, it’s necessary to immediately reapply the product in order to maintain the stated SPF level.
Sports Formulas Also Tend to Be Lighter
Another key difference is the formulation. Sports products often have a non-greasy, lightweight formula that allows the skin to breathe. This minimizes the likelihood of pores becoming clogged – which is also important for athletes, as heavy formulas can cause discomfort and skin issues like acne.
These sunscreens are also designed to be absorbed quickly, providing an invisible layer of protection that doesn’t interfere with physical activity and affect performance. Moreover, athletes and outdoor enthusiasts are typically exposed to the sun for longer, meaning that more robust protection is needed to avoid sunburn. That’s why they often offer a higher SPF rating.
Durability is also a big factor, so sports products are formulated to adhere better to the skin, resisting wear from rubbing, sweating, and towel drying. This ensures that the sunscreen remains effective, even during vigorous activity, without the need for frequent reapplication.
Would Sports Sunscreen Be the Better Option For You?
While both sports and regular sunscreens are created to protect the skin from UV damage, sports sunblocks are specifically engineered to withstand the harsh conditions associated with exercise and outdoor sporting pursuits. Their water-resistant formulas, non-greasy textures, higher SPF values, and durable blends make them the ideal choice for sun-conscious athletes and outdoorsy people.
Choosing the right type of sunscreen based on your lifestyle and activity level is crucial for effective sun protection, so it’s important to give it some thought. There’s a chance that a sports formula might be the best option for the way you live your life.
You only really get one big chance to keep your skin youthful and healthy, as once sun damage has taken place, it’s too late. So be sure to use the right product for your needs.
