If you enjoy playing golf, then you probably already know that sunscreen is one of the most essential things that you should have in your bag. Golfers normally spend a lot of time outside. The duration of a golf round is usually four to six hours, which is so much time in the sun. Sun protection is also necessary even when you are golfing on a cloudy day.
While it is fun to be outside on a hot sunny day, too much sun and heat can be very harmful to your skin. This is why you need protection.
Below is a list of the best sunscreens for golf, picked particularly for their effectiveness on the course. Apply them to your skin 30 minutes prior to going out, and make sure to reapply every two hours.
In a hurry? These are our top picks.
MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
Neutrogena Ultimate Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion SPF 70
Waxhead Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Stick
Brush On Block Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen
MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 40
- SUNSCREEN SPRAY – This non-greasy, fast-drying formula makes full-body application quick and easy. Featuring a 360-degree non aerosol continuous spray that can be applied at any angle, this oil-free and water-resistant sunscreen (up to 80 minutes) is perfect for active lifestyles and gentle enough for kids 6 months and older
- 360 DEGREE SPRAY – Superior 360-degree continuous spray allows the formula to be applied evenly, absorb quickly, and leave a non-sticky finish
- NON-AEROSOL TECHNOLOGY – Unique bag-on-valve technology keeps propellant in the can, off your skin, and out of the environment helping to reduce our ecological footprint
- REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN SPRAY – Our entire collection is reef-safe and cruelty-free. We follow the strictest safety standards set by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), which means we only use natural, 100% safe ingredients. And you’ll never see us use oxybenzone or octinoxate - two ingredients known to irritate skin and impact marine life.
Last update on 2024-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
First of all, this MDSolarSciences spray-on sunscreen is quick and easy to apply and a perfect choice for the golf course. It features a 360-degree continuous non-aerosol spray, which can be put on at any angle. It is hypoallergenic, lightweight, fast-drying, non-greasy, and water-resistant. It’s suitable for both adults and children with active lifestyles.
Features & Details:
- With a 360-degree continuous non-aerosol spray, this MDSolarSciences sunscreen applies evenly and is quick to absorb. It offers 80 minutes of water-resistance, so your skin is protected even while swimming or surfing. Gentle enough for children who are 6 months old and above.
- This lightweight, oil-free + quick-drying formula gives broad-spectrum coverage in an eco-friendly package.
- Apply equally to all areas that will be exposed to sunlight. Repeat every two hours, and avoid getting the sunscreen to your eyes.
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
- SAFE, NATURAL PROTECTION: Thinksport sunscreen provides effective sun protection for athletes, sports and active use. The broad spectrum UVA & UVB sun cream is suitable for daily use on even sensitive skin, offering gentle defense against the sun’s rays.
- EASY APPLICATION: The hydrating body and face sun cream is quick and easy to apply, and protection from the sun begins instantly. The fast absorbing SPF 50+ sun lotion won’t leave your skin feeling oily or sticky, and has no unpleasant chemical scent.
- CLEAN MINERAL FORMULA: With your family's safety in mind, our sunscreen is a clean mineral formula free from harmful chemicals. Contains no PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten or dairy
- WATER RESISTANT: Ideal sunscreen for sport and other activities that make you sweat. Our sun cream provides the highest water resistance per the FDA, offering continuous protection for up to 80 minutes in the pool or sea before the sunscreen should be re-applied.
- SUNCARE BY THINK SUN: Thinkdaily, Thinkbaby, Thinkkids & Thinksports have got your family covered with gentle, reef-safe and worry-free ingredient based sunscreens, made to be effective for delicate and sensitive skin without sacrificing protection
Last update on 2024-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for a sunscreen that will protect you as you play golf, this Thinksport product might be the right one for you. Its main ingredient is non-nano zinc, which is said to be the most reef-friendly option available in the US. This sunscreen lotion is affordable compared to others. Plus, it rubs in quite easily and feels good on the skin.
Features & Details:
- This sunscreen has no biologically harmful chemicals.
- It is very effective with an SPF at 50+ and also offers 80-minute water-resistance as well as broad-spectrum coverage for damaging UVA and UVB rays.
- Safe for reefs and highly biodegradable, it is non-nano zinc oxide and non-aerosol sunscreen.
- This Thinksport sunscreen applies easily and absorbs quickly.
- It does not have the greasy feel or obtrusive smell that regular sunscreens have.
Neutrogena Ultimate Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion SPF 70
- Sport Sunscreen For Face: One 2.5 fl oz bottle of Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+ to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays
- Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 70: Formulated with unique Helioplex and an electrolyte complex to help nourish and restore skin balance, this sunscreen helps prevent sunburns which may lead to premature aging
- Sport Sunscreen: Designed to be suitable for vigorous outdoor activity, this oil free sunscreen for face resists wear off from water, rubbing, sweating or wiping and it won’t clog pores
- Sweat and Water Resistant Sunscreen: Apply a generous amount of this travel size sunscreen for face 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every 80 minutes for the most effective results
- Dermatologist Recommended Suncare Brand: Enjoy the sun and skip the burn; this PABA free and oil free sunscreen lotion won’t cause breakouts and provides sun protection from dangerous sun rays
Last update on 2024-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Neutrogena is renowned for its quality skin care products, including the Sport Face oil-free sunscreen lotion. Ideal for vigorous outdoor activities, this facial sunscreen stays on and can hold up to water, sweat, rubbing, and wiping. It also features an electrolyte complex that helps nourish the skin.
If you use this Neutrogena Sport Face lotion as instructed with other sun protection measures, it can also help reduce the risk of skin cancer and skin aging caused by the sun. It is non-greasy and does not clog any pores or cause acne.
Taking all of this into consideration, the Neutrogena Sport Face lotion might be a perfect fit if you’re looking for the best sunscreen for golf.
Features & Details:
- Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 70+ offers maximum sun protection from aging UVA and burning UVB rays to avoid sunburn.
- Great for outdoor sports activities, this facial sunscreen does not wear off from water, sweat, rubbing, or wiping. It is resistant to sweat and water.
- It has an electrolyte complex to promote skin nourishment.
- Specifically formulated for fun and physical outdoor activities, this sunscreen can help reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging caused by too much sun as long as it is used correctly with other sunlight protection measures.
- It is oil-free, and it will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Waxhead Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Stick
- This zinc oxide sunscreen is all-natural and made from 25% non nano zinc oxide. It’s safe for infants to adults! NO oxybenzone. NO octinoxate. NO petrochemicals at all. 100% non-toxic.
- #1 by the EWG Sunscreen Guide this baby safe sunscreen is built for sensitive skin — it works great as tattoo protection too! It won’t run or sting eyes and gives true UVA UVB coverage.
- Parents love the broad spectrum protection of this mineral formula made from 4 edible-grade ingredients: 25% zinc oxide, organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic vanilla extract.
- All our sunscreens are coral reef safe and approved for Hawaii, all marine areas and waterparks. This biodegradable sunscreen stays on top of skin and will not be absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Apply – Slowly push stick up from bottom. To slide product down, tap bottom against a hard surface. Use stick to dot sunscreen onto skin (this helps warm up sunscreen too), then spread and rub into skin.
Last update on 2024-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
While this water-resistant sunscreen from Waxhead contains only four ingredients, it is highly effective and easy to apply with a large stick. It has a light vanilla-coconut scent, so you may want to look for other options if you prefer a fragrance-free sunscreen.
The Waxhead zinc oxide sunscreen stick is suitable for adults and kids. This is a mineral-based formulation with zinc oxide, which should work well without problems. It can be removed immediately using soap and water. While this sunscreen is not budget-friendly, it performs effectively. This is worth considering if you are after the best sunscreen for golf.
Features & Details:
- This Waxhead product is a body-safe, child-friendly, and reef-safe sunscreen. It has no harmful chemicals — just pure, real broad-spectrum protection from non-nano zinc oxide.
- It is a lightly-scented, natural vanilla and coconut oil zinc-oxide stick made out of only four certified organic and mineral ingredients. This means the sunscreen is also suitable for sensitive skin.
- The hardworking, oil-free moisturizing formula is non-irritant and water-resistant for approximately 80 minutes.
- The large stick is easy to apply.
- This sunscreen is 100% toxin-free, offering clean protection for you without petrochemicals.
- How to apply – Slowly push the sunscreen stick up from the bottom. Dot, spread, and rub on each area of skin you are protecting.
Brush On Block Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen
- Easy to Apply Powder Sunscreen: Brush On Block's powder sunscreen goes on smoothly without affecting your normal skin tone and its easy twist-open feature ensures powder flows through the brush only when you want; pack it away or toss in a bag without worry in the CLOSED position and apply after a simple twist to OPEN
- Convenient: Our unique applicator is small to fit easily inside purses, sports bags, and make-up bags so your mineral sunblock can be reapplied with ease throughout the day
- FSA and HSA Eligible Powder Sunscreen: You can use your FSA/HSA card to purchase Brush On Block's Mineral Powder Sunscreen SPF for everyday wear for flawless protection
- All-Natural: Brush On Block’s mineral sunscreen is vegan, free of parabens, PABA and Phalates and safe for sensitive skin
- Reef-Friendly: Protect your skin and our oceans with our sunscreen formula that contains no Oxybenzone, Octinoxate or nano-sized particles
Last update on 2024-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
There have been innovative sun-protection techniques that hit the market over the last few years, and one seemingly new-school invention is the powdered sunscreen.
Brush On Block makes messy, greasy lotions a thing of the past, as you can simply brush it on. When you use it as directed, you can consider it to be one of the safest sunscreens available on the market. It has neither harmful byproducts nor adverse reactions — just safe and reliable SPF 30 sun protection. The inactive ingredients of Brush On Block includes non-toxic, natural mineral powders and soothing botanical extracts.
The powder sunscreen offers a quick, convenient and effective way to have your skin protected on the course.
Features & Details:
- This brush-on sunscreen is easy to apply and nourishes your skin with botanical ingredients.
- It is a portable, self-dispensing refillable brush-on mineral SPF 30 sunscreen with a simple twist-open feature, which protects your skin from UVA/UVB rays without the messy and oily residue of standard sunscreens.
- Brush On Block provides a translucent mineral powder option with SPF 30 that blends in easily, giving you flawless coverage.
- The unique applicator is small enough to be carried easily inside purses and pouch bags so you can reapply your mineral sunblock without a hassle throughout your game.
- This mineral sunscreen is vegan-friendly, contains no parabens and phthalates, and safe to use for those who have sensitive skin.
- Keep your skin and the oceans protected with Brush On Block’s sunscreen formula that is free of Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, or any nanoparticles.
- Directions: Apply generously 15 minutes prior to playing golf. Reapply after 80 minutes of sweating, right after towel drying, or at least every two hours.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Golf
If you enjoy playing golf during a sunny or cloudy day, it is necessary to use sunscreen that will help to effectively protect your skin from the sun’s rays. But if you are not sure what SPF you are going to buy, here are the things that you should look for in a sunscreen. Knowing these factors will help make sure you will be truly protected on the course.
UVA and UVB Protection
First and foremost, you should purchase sunscreen that is labeled “broad-spectrum” because this means it offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Ultraviolet A (UVA) is the one associated with premature skin aging that causes wrinkles and age spots, while ultraviolet B causes sunburn. Too much exposure to both contributes to the risk of skin cancer, so it is necessary to make sure you get the quality and coverage you need.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
SPF is a measure of how effectively a sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays, the type of radiation that causes sunburn, damage to the skin, and can lead to skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF 15 blocks approximately 93 percent of UVB rays, while SPF 30 protects the skin from about 97 percent of UVB rays.
Take note that no sunscreen can protect you completely from the sun, so reapplying throughout the day is a must. Also, wear protective clothing like hats and always find shade.
Skin Type
If you have sensitive skin or any skin condition, you may benefit from using sunscreens made for kids. Go for zinc dioxide or titanium oxide instead of chemicals like oxybenzone, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), sulisobenzone, or dioxsulisobenzon. It is not ideal to use sunscreens with fragrances, alcohol, or preservatives if you have skin irritation or allergies.
Some sunscreens have moisturizers and other ingredients, which are good for those who have dry or oily skin. It’s worth trying out a few different sun creams to see which works best for you. Make sure they provide UVA and UVB protection.
How to Apply Sunscreen
Proper and daily use is as important as picking the right sunscreen for your skin. Here are tips from the experts:
- Put on the sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you head outside in the sun. Women can apply sunscreen under makeup. Use one ounce (or two tablespoons) for whole-body coverage. You might only get 10% to 25% of protection if you do not use it adequately.
- Don’t forget to put sunscreen on commonly missed spots, such as the tips of your ears, the back of your legs, and your feet. Your lips can also get sunburned, so you should use a UV-protective lip balm and reapply it constantly.
- Regardless of how long-lasting the sunscreen is said to be, reapply it at least every two hours. Do it more frequently in case of perspiration, bathing, or upon weeping your skin.
- Take notice of the expiry date on the bottle, as sunscreen becomes less effective over time.
- Use sunscreen every time you are outside during the day, and not only when it is hot and sunny. No matter the season, overexposure to the sun can still cause negative effects on your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sun protection factor (SPF) should I have?
There are 4 SPF levels :
- From SPF 6 to SPF 10 = low protection
- From SPF 15 to SPF 25 = average protection
- From SPF 30 to SPF 50 = high protection
- Above 50 (SPF 50+) = very high protection
If you are going to play golf, it is recommended to use very high protection. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen to your face and other sensitive or exposed areas, including the back of your uncovered hand.
For your legs and arms, you can use a low SPF but still, the higher, the better.
What makes golfers more at risk for sun exposure?
Golfers are more at risk for sun exposure because a single round of golf usually lasts for four to six hours. Aside from that, the standard timing of games is during the sunlight peak intensity hours, which is from 10 am to 4 pm. This explains why golfers need to use sunscreen that has a high level of sun protection.
Does sunscreen protect me during the entire game?
The answer is no. Even if you are using the highest level of SPF, it is important to reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours.
Do I need to wear sunscreen when I play golf on a cloudy day?
Definitely, remember that ultraviolet light rays can still beam down even through heavy clouds. A light cloudy haze in the sky can allow over 90 percent of the UV light to go through. Additionally, UVB does not heat your skin. They can cause serious and severe sunburns without you feeling a heating sensation. Protecting your skin is a must even when the sky is cloudy and even if you can’t see the sun.
Best Sunscreen For Golf – Conclusion
There you have it, the list of the best sunscreen for golf you should use on the course. Do not take the sun lightly, as being exposed to it puts you at risk of skin cancer and other conditions. As mentioned above, it is also necessary to wear protective gear, such as wide brim hats and sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays at a certain level. So, go ahead and win those rounds while having the confidence that you are safe and protected.