Exercising outdoors is great for your body, but it can also put you at a higher risk of sunburns. We often wear short-sleeved shirts and shorts exposing our arms and legs, and some men opt to go shirtless, leaving their chests and backs exposed. It’s important to lather up with sunscreen whenever headed outside, but when you’re sweating it’s even more important that you choose the right sunscreen. Wearing sunscreen while working out is essential because UV rays can still damage your skin, even when you’re exercising outdoors. It helps protect against sunburn, premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
To ensure your sunscreen lasts throughout your entire workout:
1. Apply it generously: Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin, and don’t forget often overlooked areas like the tops of your ears and the back of your neck.
2. Choose water-resistant sunscreen: Opt for a water-resistant formula that can withstand sweat and water exposure, especially if you’re working out outdoors or doing water activities.
3. Reapply as needed: If you’re sweating heavily or engaging in activities that could rub off the sunscreen, reapply it every two hours or more frequently as needed.
4. Wear protective clothing: Consider wearing moisture-wicking clothing that covers as much skin as possible, along with a hat and sunglasses for additional protection.
5. Use SPF lip balm: Don’t forget to protect your lips with an SPF lip balm to prevent them from getting burned or damaged.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your sunscreen provides effective protection throughout your entire workout. Here are 10 sunscreens for redheads getting their sweat on.
1. Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50
Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion: $68
2. Supergoop! PLAY Antioxidant Body Mist w/ Vitamin C SPF 50
Supergoop! PLAY Antioxidant Body Mist w/ Vitamin C: $24
3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant Broad Spectrum SPF 70
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant Broad Spectrum: $14
4. EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion: $30
5. Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen SPF 50
Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen: $10
6. Neutrogena Sport Active Defense SPF 70 Sunscreen Spray
Neutrogena Sport Active Defense SPF 70 Sunscreen Spray: $26
7. Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen: $22
8. BLUE LIZARD Sport Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion – SPF 50+
BLUE LIZARD Sport Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion: $15
9. Sun Bum Daily SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion
Sun Bum Daily SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion: $20
10. Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 60
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum: $16
When working out, it’s important to be mindful of the sweat/water resistance of your sunscreen. Most sunscreens are only sweat/water resistant for up to 80 minutes and have to be re-applied more often than the suggested two hours for regular sunscreen — carrying a spray or stick sunscreen with you while exercising is a great way to easily reapply with no mess. You can also wear UPF clothing to keep yourself protected during your workout to ensure adequate protection from harmful UV rays.
Rock it like a Redhead!
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