Is Sunscreen Enough for Swimming?
You’re reapplying sunscreen. You’re doing everything right. So why are you still getting burnt?
If you’ve ever come home from a beach day with red shoulders, a burnt chest, or patchy tan lines — you’re not alone. More and more women are starting to realise… sunscreen alone isn’t enough.
Why Sunscreen Isn’t Always Enough
Sunscreen works — but only when it’s applied before swimming, and then reapplied regularly and after swimming. And in real life? How are you meant to remember to do all of that and enjoy your day at the beach or pool? Especially if you are running around trying to get the kids to put on more sunscreen.
Here’s why sunscreen alone isn't enough to protect you all day:
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It can wash off in the water
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It can wear off with swear in the heat particularly if you wipe your face or body
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It gets missed in key areas (chest, shoulders, back of arms, back and neck)
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It needs constant reapplication every 2 hours
Now think about a real beach day…
You’re swimming.
You’re sitting.
You’re walking.
You’re distracted. You're enjoying your time with family and friends.
Reapplying perfectly every time?
It’s easy to forget while you're having fun.
Why Women Over 40 Are Rethinking Sun Protection
This is where the shift is happening.
Women aren’t just thinking about sunburn anymore — they’re thinking about:
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Skin aging
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Sun spots
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Long-term skin damage and skin cancer
And relying on something that can wash off? It can start to feel like a risk.
The Smarter Way to Stay Protected
Instead of relying on sunscreen alone, more women are switching to UPF50+ sun protective swimwear, that has in-built UPF+ sun protection.
Why?
Because it works differently.
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It doesn’t wash off
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It doesn’t need reapplying
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It provides consistent protection
It’s like setting your protection once…and not having to think about it again.
What to Wear Instead
This is where the right pieces make all the difference.
For upper body protection:
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A UPF50+ top or rash guard protects your:
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Shoulders
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Chest
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Arms
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For lower body protection:
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UPF+ Swim shorts or swim leggings protect your:
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Upper thighs
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Legs
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Areas often missed by SPF
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By combining sunscreen, UPF50+ clothing, sunglasses and a hat, you are creating a full-body sun safe coverage without sacrificing style, comfort or movement.
Sun Protection That Fits Real Life
The biggest difference?
This isn’t about sitting still under an umbrella.
It’s about:
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Swimming
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Walking
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Playing with your kids
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Going from beach to café
Your day doesn’t stop at the water’s edge… your sun protection shouldn’t either.
Final Thought
We recommend combing sunscreen with UPF50+ swimwear or clothing, wearing a hat, sunglasses and seeking shade where you can to keep yourself protected all day at the beach or pool.
There’s a smarter, easier way to stay protected. One that works with your lifestyle — not against it.
Explore our sun-safe swimwear designed for real life. Explore our Sun Protection Swim Collection