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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/swim-water-resistant-40-or-80

A 'water resistant' sunscreen label must say it lasts how long while swimming?

40 or 80 minutes. Then reapply.

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  1. 10 or 20 minutes
  2. 4 or 8 hours
  3. 40 or 80 minutes ✔

Why: The FDA says sunscreens labeled water resistant must state whether they stay effective for 40 minutes or 80 minutes when swimming or sweating. After that, put more on.

Huh, didn't know that: The FDA says to put sunscreen on 15 minutes before going out in the sun.

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What did the beach towel say to the sunscreen? I've got you covered, now go reapply.
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References

Answer: 40 or 80 minutes. The FDA says sunscreens labeled water resistant must state whether they stay effective for 40 minutes or 80 minutes when swimming or sweating. After that, put more on.

  1. FDA: Sunscreen, How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun
    state on their labels whether the sunscreen remains effective for 40 minutes or 80 minutes when swimming or sweating
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. FDA: Sunscreen, How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun
    Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and more often if you're sweating or swimming.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  3. FDA: Sunscreen, How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun
    Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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