It’s important that when you head out on a sunny run you do everything you can to protect your skin. Even on days where the glare may not feel as strong, UV rays can still make their way through and cause damage.
Sunscreen in general helps create a barrier between you and those harmful rays, but not all are suitable for runners, with lotions that can become greasy and cause irritation, or wipe away when you start to sweat.
Here, we’ve put together a list of the top picks of the best sunscreen for runners based on in-depth research and analysis of user reviews.
These products should not only help protect and hydrate your skin, but they are also designed to stay intact throughout your workout so you can focus on your form and keep your mind off the weather.
Best sunscreen for runners in 2024
Neutrogena Sport Face (SPF 70 )
Designed to both nourish and restore your skin balance, the Neutrogena Sport Face lotion has an SPF of 70 to help protect you on your next run. In fact, the brand boasts this particular sunblock is the first to include its patented Helioplex technology, which is said to to strengthen your skin's defence against UV.
Neutrogena says it'll hold its own against sweat, with a water resistance of 80 minutes, which means you won't have to ruin your time by stopping to applying extra layers of cream if you’re aiming for a distance that fits within this time frame.
Riemann P20 Sunfilter (SPF 30)
If you're intending to be out for the day, this lotion from Riemann may be best for you, as it promises 10 hours of protection from a single application.
With a claimed strong level of water resistance, the brand says it shouldn't come off even if you sweat a lot or go for multiple swims. Plus, it's said to absorb into your skin after 15 minutes, so you shouldn't have to wait very long to start your session either.
It's applied via a spray nozzle, which is designed to help with consistent coverage so you're not left with any unsightly white marks.
Ultrasun Sports Gel (SPF 30)
This sunscreen sports gel from Ultrasun has an SPF of 30 and comes with vitamin E in the mixture in an attempt to keep your skin feeling hydrated while you exercise in the sun.
It doesn't include any perfume, preservatives or mineral oils, instead sticking to a simple solution that's said to quickly absorb into your skin, providing a UVA absorbance of 90%.
Banana Boat Sunscreen (SPF 50)
Available in a twin pack so you have a handy back-up supply, this sunscreen spray from Banana Boat has an SPF of 50. It's said to have a water resistance of 80 minutes, so you should be able to fit in a solid, sweaty workout without the need to add an extra application midway through.
The bottle itself is designed to be simple to use thanks to its twist and lock spray, which means you can quickly access the sunscreen when you need it while making sure it doesn't leak or dribble when it's stored out of sight.
It also promises a lightweight and non-greasy feel in order to absorb easily into your skin without causing a mess or running into your eyes.
Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen (SPF 50)
Don't be put off by the name, the Supergoop says its sunscreen absorbs easily without clogging your pores, allowing your skin to breathe while you sweat.
As well as protecting you from the sun with an SPF of 50, it's also said to help restore long term moisture using the brand's beta-glucan component.
You shouldn't detect a typical sunscreen smell either, as the brand has opted for a subtle scent using natural extracts that include citrus, basil and bois de rose (better known as rosewood).
Pelotan Spray (SPF 30)
Providing an SPF of 30 and an estimated protection time of up to eight hours no matter how much you sweat, the Pelotan spray is designed for those heading out for long sessions on particularly hot days.
One application is said to be all you need to see you through this period of time, with a promise that it can be easily applied and quick to dry with no hassle of grease or white marks on your skin.
Aptonia Sport Sun Protection Cream (SPF 50 )
Said to be suitable for those with sensitive skin, this formula is designed to help protect from the sun with an SPF of 50 and a high level of UVA and UVB protection. Working to moisturise your skin once it sinks it, it's said to be particularly resistant to water and sweat.
The bottle itself has a compact and flat design so you can take it with you on your next trip if you have a casual run in mind, or store it easily in your bag for your next big race if the weather looks promising.
LifeJacket Sun Gel (SPF 50 )
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This sun gel from LifeJacket is said to be suitable for everyone, including those with sensitive skin. It's designed to feel light and non-greasy once applied but that doesn't mean it's not doing its job, with an SPF protection of 50+.
You can invest in a large bottle that’ll provide multiple uses, but they’re also available in convenient 10ml sachets that you can pop in your pocket for topping up on the go.