Updated July 22, 2025. This article was thoroughly audited by multiple golf experts and coaches for its accuracy. You can read more about our rigorous testing protocol here.
Sunscreen is an essential component of a golfer’s arsenal. With its ability to reduce the skin’s exposure to the sun’s harmful rays, a great sunscreen can keep a golfer safe from the dangers of skin cancer.
But not all sunscreens are made equally: some provide quick evaporation to leave your skin feeling unaffected, while others can leave an oily residue.
So it is vital for individuals to find the best golf sunscreen that absorbs quickly, offers adequate sun protection, and keeps defending against skin cancer even when it’s hot, humid, and sweaty.
In our list of the best sunscreen for golfers, we take an in-depth look at the best products for sun protection.
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Table of Contents
Best Sunscreen for Golfers 2025
We recommend golfers apply sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays. Here’s our best golf sunscreen list:
Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen
Best Sunscreen for Golfers Overall
- SPF: 70
- Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
What we like
- SPF 70 formula doesn’t wear down with sweat
- Moisturizes your face in addition to providing sun protection
- Uniquely designed with Helioplex that creates a sturdy safety barrier from sun damage
What we didn’t like
- The initial white cast when applied, though it does rub in eventually
- The scent is a bit strong for those who prefer unscented products
Right out of the tube, the Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70 impressed us.
We put it through its paces on a sweltering, mid-summer round, and true to its claims, the SPF 70 formula didn’t break down, even as sweat beaded on our brows.
This is thanks to its unique Helioplex technology, which effectively creates a robust barrier against the sun’s rays. We finished our 18 holes without a hint of redness.
Beyond just sun protection, this mineral-based sunscreen, with its inclusion of titanium dioxide, also felt remarkably gentle and hydrating on the skin.
We loved that it moisturized our faces, a nice bonus that many heavy-duty sunscreens often overlook.
And speaking of heavy-duty, its extreme water resistance held up flawlessly for the full 80 minutes it promises, meaning we weren’t constantly reapplying, even through a particularly humid back nine.
This stuff truly works harder than your average sunscreen.
EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen
Best SPF Value Sunscreen
- SPF: 50
- Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
What we like
- SPF 50 rating with mineral-based formula that reduces sun damage
- Broad spectrum ingredient list makes product quick absorbing to flesh
- Zinc oxide keeps the skin free from grease with one use
What we didn’t like
- Price is a bit higher than some drugstore options
- The “sport” branding might scare off those looking for everyday use, but it works great for that too
After spending several days on the course, we can confidently say that the EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen is a top choice. The SPF 50 really delivered, excellent protection from the sun.
The mineral-based formula with zinc oxide was a winner. We were impressed how fast it absorbed into the skin without any residue, which is a common problem with mineral sunscreens.
That quick absorption is definitely a benefit of the “broad spectrum” ingredient list. It just seemed to disappear into our skin.
What really sold us was the complete lack of grease. Even after a full round in the humidity, our skin felt clean and fresh, thanks to the zinc oxide at work keeping shine at bay.
Plus, it moisturized surprisingly well, so we didn’t experience the dry, tight feeling often associated with some sunscreens.
This combination of excellent sun protection, clean feel, and skin hydration makes it a winner.
The EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen is for golfers who want a lightweight, non-greasy feel and excellent, long lasting sun protection, especially those with active lifestyles or who sweat a lot on the course.
Sun Bum Face 70 Sunscreen
Most Water-Resistant Sunscreen
- SPF: 70
- Water Resistant: Yes
What we like
- Great when sweating on the golf course with 80 minutes of water resistance before it’s time to reapply
- Packed with Vitamin E and other moisturizing ingredients to enrich skin with each use
- SPF 70 rating blocks all harmful UV rays, preventing skin damage and burns
What we didn’t like
- It can feel a little thick when first applied, although it does rub in smoothly
- The tube size is a bit small for frequent, full-body application
We put the Sun Bum Face 70 Sunscreen to the test on some of the hottest, most humid days at the golf course, and it absolutely lived up to its reputation.
With an SPF 70 rating, it effectively blocked out harmful UV rays; we didn’t experience any sunburns or signs of skin damage, even after extended periods in direct sunlight.
What really impressed us was its water resistance. We were sweating buckets out on the green, but the sunscreen stayed put.
We didn’t need to reapply for a full 80 minutes, making it incredibly reliable for those long rounds. This longevity is definitely why it stood out as truly water-resistant in our books.
Beyond its sun protection, the formula felt great on the skin. It’s packed with Vitamin E and other moisturizing ingredients, which left our faces feeling nourished rather than dry or sticky.
We also appreciated that it’s fragrance-free and vegan, making it a good choice for sensitive skin. Knowing it’s reef-friendly is a nice bonus if you’re ever heading from the course straight to the beach.
The Sun Bum Face 70 Sunscreen is best suited for golfers who regularly play long rounds in hot, humid conditions and need maximum, long-lasting sun protection without constant reapplication, especially those with sensitive skin or an eco-conscious mindset.
Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+
Best Sunscreen for the Whole Family
- SPF: 50
- Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
What we like
- One of the finest sunscreens without greasy residue
- 80 minutes of time security with water resistance and sweat shield
- Completely free of harmful chemicals makes it great for adults and children
What we didn’t like
- Needs a bit more rubbing to blend in compared to chemical sunscreens
- Not a bad scent but not impressive
We put the Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ to the ultimate family test, from a humid morning round of golf to an afternoon at the driving range with the kids.
Right off the bat, the SPF 50+ rating gave us peace of mind, blocking out the sun like a champ.
We loved that there was no greasy residue, a deal-breaker for us with mineral sunscreens. It absorbed well and our skin felt clean and comfortable.
The 80 minutes of time security for water resistance and sweat shield held up. During a sweaty back nine and later with the kids splashing around, we didn’t see any streaking or diminished protection.
That’s why we call it the best for the whole family. It just works no matter who’s wearing it or what they’re doing.
We liked that it’s free of harmful chemicals like PABA, phthalates, and BPA, especially when applying to our kids’ sensitive skin.
Thinksport’s transparency with their ingredients on the back of the bottle made us feel good. Their long-lasting, mineral-based broad-spectrum formula is suitable for everyone.
The Thinksport Sunscreen is ideal for golfers who prioritize a safe, chemical-free formula for both themselves and their children, and who require reliable, long-lasting sun protection that can withstand sweat and various family activities on and off the course.
Solimo Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Top Value Sunscreen
- SPF: 50
- Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
What we like
- SPF 50 with 80 minutes of water-resistant safety
- Mineral-based without harmful compounds to dry out your skin
- Generic branding provides great value
What we didn’t like
- It takes a bit more effort to rub in thoroughly to avoid a slight white cast
- The sport scent is a little intense right out of the bottle
We took the Solimo Sport Sunscreen Lotion out for a few rounds under the intense sun, and for its price, this stuff punches way above its weight.
With an SPF 50 rating, it delivered solid protection, preventing any sunburns even during midday play.
What impressed us most, especially considering its budget-friendly tag, was its 80 minutes of water resistance.
Even after a particularly sweaty front nine, it held strong, meaning we didn’t feel the need to reapply constantly.
This consistent performance without a hefty price tag is precisely why we’d call it an unbeatable value.
The mineral-based formula was a pleasant surprise; it goes on fairly clean with minimal oily residue, something you don’t always get from more affordable sunscreens.
While it’s not as quick-drying or completely invisible as some of the premium brands we’ve tested, it certainly doesn’t feel heavy or greasy, and it didn’t dry out our skin.
The Solimo Sport Sunscreen Lotion is ideal for the pragmatic golfer who plays frequently, prioritizes reliable sun protection and long-lasting water resistance, and seeks maximum value without compromising essential performance.
Babo Botanicals Sunscreen Spray
Best Non-Greasy Sunscreen: Great for Sensitive Skin
- SPF: 30
- Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
What we like
- No chemicals or harsh irritants for clean sun protection
- SPF 30 rating offers 80 minutes of water-resistant protection
- Fast-absorbing formula, great for sensitive skin
What we didn’t like
- The spray can get a bit wild in windy conditions
- The bottle is a bit small for frequent full body use
We tested the Babo Botanicals Sunscreen Spray on several hot and sunny rounds and it quickly became a favorite for its clean feel. Right off the bat, the SPF 30 worked great, no sunburns even in full sun.
The 80 minutes of water resistance held up perfectly through sweaty swings and humid conditions, so we didn’t have to reapply constantly.
What really stood out was how non-greasy it felt. It sprayed on evenly, absorbed fast, and didn’t leave any residue on our skin or hands, which is a big plus when you’re gripping a club.
This fast absorption and clean finish is why it got our top marks in that department.
It’s also gentle on sensitive skin, and none of our testers experienced irritation, even after multiple applications. No harsh chemicals help with that.
The Babo Botanicals Sunscreen Spray is designed for golfers with sensitive skin who seek a lightweight, non-greasy formula with quick absorption, allowing them to stay comfortable and protected throughout their round without sticky residue.
Z Blok Sunscreen Stick
High-Grade SPF 45 Sunscreen
- SPF: 45
- Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
What we like
- Fragrance-free ingredients applies clear and won’t sting eyes
- 80 minutes of water-resistant protection
- SPF 45 protection with non-greasy formula
What we didn’t like
- Application on larger areas can be a bit slower than a lotion or spray
- The amount of product in the stick feels limited if it’s your only sunscreen for a long trip
We put the Z Blok Sunscreen Stick to the test on the course, and its SPF 45 delivered precisely what we needed under the hot sun.
We loved that it’s fragrance-free and applied clear without any stinging, even when sweat ran into our eyes.
This stick really excels at being non-greasy. The Zinc Oxide base leaves zero residue, which is key when you’re gripping clubs all day. This clean, dry application is why we’d say it’s high-grade protection.
It performs like a premium product with none of the drawbacks. Its 80 minutes of water resistance held up all day long, so no need to reapply mid round due to sweat.
The compact 2oz stick is super convenient. It’s way lighter and smaller than a tube. It’s a no brainer to toss in any golf bag without adding bulk. It’s a lightweight option that doesn’t compromise on heavy duty protection.
The Z Blok Sunscreen Stick is for golfers who want a completely non-greasy, eye safe application and a mess free option for targeted protection during their rounds.
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Lotion
Best Clean Feel Sunscreen
- SPF: 30
- Water Resistant: Yes, up to 80 minutes
What we like
- Sunscreen SPF 30 provides broad protection for UV Rays
- 100% Zinc Oxide formula offers quick absorption
- Oil-free lightweight, hypoallergenic formula
What we didn’t like
- It can leave a slight white cast if not thoroughly rubbed in
- The texture is a bit thicker than some non-mineral sunscreens
We put the Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Lotion to the test on several scorching afternoons, and it definitely lived up to its name.
The SPF 30 protection provided broad coverage against intense UV rays, keeping us sunburn-free even during extended play.
What truly set this one apart, earning it top marks, was its incredibly clean feel.
The 100% Zinc Oxide formula absorbed remarkably quickly without leaving any oily or greasy residue. This lightweight, oil-free finish is exactly what we look for when we’re trying to stay comfortable on the course.
The formula is also hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, which meant no irritation for even our most sensitive-skinned testers.
It felt great on the skin, genuinely pushing away sweat rather than mixing with it to create a sticky mess.
Its 80 minutes of water resistance was accurate. We didn’t need to reapply midway through a round, even on humid days. Getting it in a three-pack means you’re well-stocked for the entire golf season.
The Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Lotion is ideal for golfers who value a completely non-greasy, lightweight feel during their round, especially those with sensitive skin who require reliable, broad-spectrum mineral protection without irritation.
How We Tested Each Sunscreen
We put every sunscreen to the test on the golf course, simulating real-game conditions under intense sun and heavy sweat. We focused on what matters most to golfers.
We only tested sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher, for those long four-hour-plus rounds.
We checked how well each product prevented sunburn, noting that higher SPFs, like 30 (blocks 97% of UVB) or 50 (blocks 98%) are better for fairer skin.
Since we’ll sweat, every sunscreen we reviewed was water-resistant for 40 to 80 minutes. We made sure they held up to heavy sweat, no reapplication needed.
We also tested various application methods (sticks, sprays, lotions) for ease of use and comfort, so they didn’t feel thick or leave residue.
All tested sunscreens provided broad-spectrum protection against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
We also checked their longevity to ensure they remained effective even through sweat and activity, although we still recommend reapplying every two hours.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Golf
SPF Level
We recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for adequate sun protection when golfing. Golf requires extended sun exposure for four hours or more at a time, so a higher SPF level is ideal.
The SPF indicates how well the sunscreen protects against UVB rays that cause sunburns, potentially leading to permanent damage over time.
An SPF of 30 deflects approximately 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 blocks about 98%. A higher SPF provides more protection, especially for individuals with fair skin that tends to burn quickly.
Water Resistance
Since golf involves sweating and potential water hazards, it’s essential to use a water-resistant sunscreen that provides protection even after getting wet.
Look for sunscreens labeled “water resistant” for 40 to 80 minutes of protection before reapplying after getting wet or sweating heavily. Water-resistant formulas last longer and are essential for golf.
Application Method
Sunscreen sticks and sprays are often easy to apply on hard-to-reach spots when golfing alone. Lotions and creams provide maximum coverage but can feel thick and heavy on the skin.
Choose a formula that you find easy to apply so you don’t miss any spots.
Sun Protection
Verify the sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays by looking for the words “broad spectrum” on the bottle. UVA rays age skin while UVB rays burn it, so broad-spectrum protection is ideal.
Reapplication Time
Examine the sunscreen to determine how long it remains resistant to sweat. Generally, you should reapply sunscreen every 2 hours while golfing to maintain the protection as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do professional golfers use for sunscreen?
Professional golfers often use EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50. It’s sweat-resistant, non-greasy, and holds up well during long rounds in the sun.
The formula doesn’t run into the eyes and offers broad-spectrum protection, making it a staple in many pro golf bags.
What is the best sunscreen for National Club golfers?
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55 is a top pick for National Club golfers. It provides strong sun protection without feeling heavy or oily.
The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula allows players to stay protected while maintaining grip and comfort during competitive or recreational rounds.
Which sunscreen do players use?
Many players rely on Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50. Designed for outdoor athletes, it’s water-resistant, durable, and affordable.
Its easy application and reliable coverage make it a go-to for golfers seeking consistent protection throughout hot and sunny rounds on the course.
How do you protect yourself from the sun on a golf course?
To protect yourself from the sun on the golf course, we suggest wearing a breathable, lightweight UV protection shirt and a breathable wide-brimmed hat for shade.
Also, you should apply broad spectrum SPF 30 water-resistant sunscreen to exposed skin and reapply every 2 hours. Staying hydrated with water and seeking shade between shots helps as well.