'Water Resistant' Isn't 'Waterproof': What the 40 and 80 Minute Labels Mean
Beachgoers and athletes read 'water resistant' as 'reapply-free all day' — here's what the 40- and 80-minute labels actually promise.
Under FDA rules, sunscreens can no longer claim to be 'waterproof' or 'sweatproof,' and any water-resistant product must state on the label whether protection holds for 40 or 80 minutes of swimming or sweating.
The FDA states there is no such thing as a waterproof sunscreen, and dermatologists add that the 40- or 80-minute rating is a reapplication clock, not a guarantee of all-day coverage.
Questions we get a lot
Why can't sunscreen be called 'waterproof' anymore?
The FDA banned the terms 'waterproof' and 'sweatproof' because no sunscreen fully resists water or sweat — the claims overstated protection. Products can only be labeled 'water resistant,' and must specify whether that holds for 40 or 80 minutes. The change was made so labels reflect real-world performance.
What's the difference between 40-minute and 80-minute water resistance?
The number is how long the sunscreen has been tested to maintain its SPF while you swim or sweat — 40 or 80 minutes. After that time you should towel off and reapply, regardless of how much product you started with. Neither rating means you can skip reapplication for the day.
How often should I reapply water-resistant sunscreen?
Reapply after the stated water-resistant time (40 or 80 minutes) of swimming or sweating, and immediately after towel-drying. Even out of the water, dermatologists advise reapplying roughly every two hours. The water-resistant rating extends protection during activity — it doesn't replace routine reapplication.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'My sunscreen says water resistant 80 minutes — does that mean I'm covered for a whole day at the pool?'