Water Resistant Sunscreen
Every PoolBar formula is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, tested and confirmed to maintain its SPF rating during swimming and sweating. That is the highest water resistance rating available for sunscreen, that is recognised by the FDA and the EU. Reapplication still matters, but your protection stays put when it needs to most. Formulated and manufactured in the USA, reef-safe, and cruelty-free.
Where to Buy
What Water Resistant Sunscreen Actually Means
Water resistance is measured through standardised testing, where the formula is applied, the wearer enters water for two separate 20 minute periods, and SPF is measured again afterwards.
An up to 80 minute water resistance rating means the formula has passed that test twice and still maintained its SPF value. That is the highest water resistance rating available for sunscreen, and all PoolBar SPF carries it.
In real use, towel drying, sweating, and repeated water exposure all reduce effective coverage over time. Reapply every two hours during sun exposure, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
The 80 minute rating gives you more time in the water with confidence.
Why Water Resistance Matters for Your SPF
Sun protection only works if it stays on. Sweat, water, and towel drying all break down coverage over time, which is why water resistance is one of the most important factors when choosing a sunscreen for active or outdoor use.
Mineral Sunscreens
The mineral creams use zinc oxide as the active ingredient for UVA/UVB protection. Zinc oxide sits on top of the skin as a physical barrier, deflecting UV radiation from the moment you apply.
The non-nano particles are large enough that they do not penetrate the skin barrier, which also means they stay where they are put, even after water exposure.
Clear Sunscreen Sprays
The clear SPF sprays use chemical sunscreen actives and must always be rubbed in after application to activate and bond to the skin properly. That step is what ensures the water resistance performs as tested.
Both ranges are reef safe and enriched with Vitamins C and E. Sun exposure generates free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage skin cells. Vitamins C and E are potent antioxidants that neutralize these free radicals, protecting the skin from oxidative damage and premature aging. Sun care infused with skincare, all year round.
Which Water Resistant SPF Is Right for You?
Mineral SPF 50 Face Cream – $14.99
A dedicated face formula with zinc oxide as the active ingredient for UVA/UVB protection. Water resistant up to 80 minutes, making it a reliable choice for outdoor activity, humid climates, and days where reapplication is not always possible. Broad spectrum SPF 50. Best for: sensitive skin and active daily wear.
Mineral SPF 50 Body Cream – $19.99
Full-body broad spectrum SPF 50 mineral protection that holds up in water. Tested to maintain its SPF rating after two separate 20 minute periods of water exposure. Best for: beach days, pool days, high UV index days.
Mineral SPF 30 Body Cream – $19.99
Broad spectrum SPF 30 mineral protection with a rich moisturizing formula that does not sacrifice water resistance. Water resistant up to 80 minutes. Best for: families, extended outdoor exposure, dry skin that needs SPF and hydration in one.
SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray – $19.99
Broad spectrum SPF 50 in a clear spray format with a Coconut and Vanilla scent. The spray format makes full-body reapplication quicker, but must always be rubbed in after application for the water resistance to perform as tested. Water resistant up to 80 minutes. Best for: reapplication during long beach or pool days.
SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray – $19.99
Broad spectrum SPF 30 in a clear spray format with a Coconut and Vanilla scent. Must be rubbed in after application for full SPF protection and water resistance. Water resistant up to 80 minutes. Best for: everyday outdoor use, active days, families covering multiple people quickly.
Water Resistant Sunscreen - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 40 minute and 80 minute water resistance?
Sunscreen water resistance is tested at either 40 or 80 minutes. The test involves two separate periods of water immersion, with SPF measured again afterwards. An 80 minute rating means the formula passed both periods and still maintained its SPF value. PoolBar’s full range carries the 80 minute rating, the higher of the two standards.
Does water resistant sunscreen wash off in the sea?
Open water, salt water, and waves can accelerate the breakdown of coverage. Reapply every two hours and always after leaving the water, regardless of the conditions you are swimming in.
Can I use water resistant sunscreen for skiing or winter sports?
Yes. UV exposure at altitude is significantly stronger than at sea level, and snow reflects UV rays back onto the skin. A water resistant formula holds up against sweat and wind during winter sports just as it does in water, making it a practical choice year-round, not just in summer.
Does water resistant sunscreen still protect against UVA and UVB rays?
Yes, PoolBar’s is. Water resistance refers to how well the formula holds up during water exposure, not the type of protection it delivers.
Every PoolBar formula carries broad spectrum certification, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays for the full duration it remains on the skin.
Is PoolBar's water resistant sunscreen reef safe?
Yes. The mineral creams use zinc oxide, which is approved under Hawaii Act 104.
All formulas are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, meaning they can be used and brought into Hawaii without being confiscated at customs.
A water resistant formula that is also reef safe means your protection does not come at the expense of the environment you are swimming in.
What makes PoolBar's water resistant sunscreen different?
Every formula is dermatologically tested, reef-safe, and free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens.
The mineral creams use non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient for UVA/UVB protection, enriched with Vitamins C and E for powerful extra free radical scavenging.
The SPF sprays use compressed air and a bag-on-valve system with no CFCs and fully recyclable packaging. Formulated and manufactured in the USA, every formula in the range carries the 80 minute water resistance rating as standard, not as a premium.
