The best sweat resistant sunscreen for summer 2024

Protection Levels: SPF50+, Broad Spectrum, PA++++, 5 Boots Stars, UVA Circle

Full review. I will sing praises of this sunscreen till the day I die, because it's that good. Excellent UV filters, including their proprietary Mexoryl 400 that protects against long UVA-I rays, so you know your skin is safe from burning and aging.

It's also surprisingly light, with the milk texture blending in effortlessly to leave a dewy finish that's neither heavy or sticky. In my experience this is the best sunscreen for outdoor activities, and it's a must have when I travel. 

This is also the only reef safe sunscreen on the list, as it doesn't contain any filters that can harm coral reefs.

→ 50ml for ~$20 on Box of Color ($4 shipping), Perfumes Club ($12 shipping), OneBioShop ($11 shipping), eBay, Escentual and CultBeauty (can’t ship to the US)

Protection Levels: SPF60+, Broad Spectrum

For a local US option, I recommend this one from Shiseido. The new SynchroShieldRepair technology builds on top of their old HeatForce and WetForce technology, which means that not only is the protection strengthened when your skin comes into contact with heat and water, but any disturbance to the sunscreen from rubbing or contact will automatically self-repair. How cool is that?

The texture is also lovely - a light serum that feels comfortable on the face and body, though it can sting the eyes if it gets in. Between its unique features and filters safe for coral reefs, this a good option if you plan on doing water sports.

→ 50ml for $25 on Stylevana (SHOPJENNY for 10% off), Sephora

Protection Levels: SPF50+, Broad Spectrum, PA++++, 3 Boots Stars

The better version of the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion thanks to its next generational filters. It features the same HeatForce x WetForce technology (renamed Aqua Booster EX Technology), and also includes a Thermo Booster Technology that helps create an even layer of protection once the skin reaches 37 degrees.

You'd think a sunscreen with this kind of protection would feel very noticeable (and sticky) on the skin, but nope, it's actually the lightest of all the sweat-resistant sunscreens here. Feels like a milky toner and leaves behind a weightless matte finish. My new favorite.

→ 50ml for $23.89 on Stylevana (SHOPJENNY for 10% off), YesStyle (GEEKYPOSH for 5% off), Amazon

Protection Levels: SPF50+, PA++++

What if you're not planning to do any outdoor sport or don't have an active lifestyle, you just want something that won't sweat off when it's hot? Then this one by Allie is my top pick, and it was actually my everyday sunscreen for a while.

Despite it being stubbornly budge proof (a good thing!), my skin feels so comfortable wearing this thanks to its elegant texture. It's often compared to the Anessa, and I'll say this: they're both great in their own ways. Planning an outdoor workout? Go with Anessa. Just plan on being outdoors? Go with Allie. Both of these were tested and found that skin didn't tan nor burn with either.

→ 90ml for $15.99 on Stylevana (SHOPJENNY for 10% off), YesStyle (GEEKYPOSH for 5% off), Amazon

Protection Levels: SPF50+, Broad Spectrum

I would categorize this one similarly to Allie - good for hot days when you know you'll sweat, but not the best for intense activities where you'll be drenched. I like this one because it's been tested by Consumer Reports to have SPF 55 and a UVA protection rating of 4/5! Given that most US sunscreens don't go through third party testing or fail miserably when they do (more on that below), this is an impressive feat.

This one does feel a bit greasier than the other options, so I actually prefer using this as a face sunscreen instead, and going with a lighter option for my body. Contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and nourishing plant oils to moisturize, so feel free to skip your moisturizer when using this one!

→ 100ml for $16.98 on Amazon, Shopbop

Protection Levels: SPF60, Broad Spectrum

La Roche-Posay has several different versions of the Anthelios sunscreen in the US, none which are as effective as the original, but this one feels so much more elegant while still offering water resistance.

True to its name, it really does have a cooling effect on application, making it a super comfortable option if you plan on spending a lot of time in the heat. The texture is reminiscent of Japanese sunscreens, with a watery texture that spreads easily and sets almost instantly on the skin. Oily and combination skin types will really enjoy this one.

→ 150ml for $37.99 on Amazon, Ulta, Dermstore (JENNYWU for 15% off)