Cricket is a sport that demands hours of exposure to the sun, whether during practice sessions or intense matches. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer. For athletes, especially cricketers, protecting their skin is as crucial as their performance on the field.
Traditional sunscreens may not always provide the necessary durability and protection needed for athletes who sweat profusely. This is where zinc-based sunscreens come into play. Zinc oxide sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, is sweat-resistant, and gentle on the skin—making it the ideal choice for cricket players and athletes.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
Why cricketers need sunscreen
The benefits of zinc oxide sunscreen for athletes
How to choose the best sports sunscreen
Top zinc sunscreen recommendations for athletes
Application tips for maximum protection
Why Do Cricket Players Need Sunscreen?
Cricket matches can last for hours, sometimes even days (in the case of Test matches). Players are exposed to harmful UV rays, which can cause:
Sunburn – Red, painful skin that can peel and affect performance.
Premature Aging – UV rays break down collagen, leading to wrinkles and sunspots.
Skin Cancer Risk – Prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers.
Heat Stress & Dehydration – Sunburn can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
Since regular sunscreens may wear off due to sweat, a zinc-based, sweat-resistant sunscreen is the best solution for athletes.
Why Zinc Oxide Sunscreen is Best for Athletes
Zinc oxide is a physical (mineral) sunscreen that sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays, unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb them. Here’s why it’s perfect for cricket players and athletes:
1. Broad-Spectrum Protection
Zinc oxide blocks both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays), ensuring complete sun defense.
2. Sweat & Water-Resistant
Unlike chemical sunscreens that break down with sweat, zinc-based sunscreens are more durable, making them ideal for sports.
3. Gentle on Skin
Zinc is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and suitable for sensitive skin, reducing the risk of breakouts.
4. Long-Lasting Protection
Since it doesn’t degrade easily under sunlight, zinc oxide provides longer-lasting protection without frequent reapplication.
5. Safe for All Skin Types
It’s less likely to cause irritation, making it great for athletes with oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin.
How to Choose the Best Zinc Sunscreen for Cricket & Sports
Not all zinc sunscreens are created equal. Here’s what to look for when selecting one:
✔ SPF 30-50+
For prolonged outdoor exposure, SPF 30-50+ is recommended. Higher SPF doesn’t always mean better—proper application matters more.
✔ Non-Greasy & Lightweight Formula
Athletes need a sunscreen that won’t feel heavy or sticky during play. Look for matte-finish or gel-based zinc sunscreens.
✔ Sweat & Water Resistance (80 mins)
Ensure the sunscreen is labeled "sport" or "water-resistant" to withstand sweat and humidity.
✔ Non-White Cast (Tinted Options)
Some zinc sunscreens leave a white residue. Opt for micronized or tinted versions for a clear finish.
✔ Fragrance-Free & Hypoallergenic
Added fragrances can irritate the skin, especially during intense physical activity.
Top 5 Zinc Sunscreens for Cricket Players & Athletes
Here are some of the best zinc-based sunscreens designed for athletes:
1. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen (SPF 50)
Lightweight, non-greasy
Oxides-based, broad-spectrum
Water-resistant (80 mins)
2. EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
Great for sweaty conditions
Tinted option available
Hydrating & non-comedogenic
3. Blue Lizard Sport Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Highly sweat-resistant
Reef-safe & fragrance-free
Smart bottle technology (changes color in UV light)
4. Badger Sport Sunscreen (SPF 35)
Organic & natural ingredients
Water-resistant (80 mins)
Thicker formula, ideal for extreme sun exposure
5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Sunscreen (SPF 50)
Ultra-lightweight, absorbs quickly
Antioxidant protection
Suitable for sensitive skin
How to Apply Sunscreen for Maximum Protection
Even the best sunscreen won’t work if applied incorrectly. Follow these steps:
Apply 15-30 Minutes Before Play – Let it absorb properly.
Use Enough Product – A shot glass amount (1 oz) for full body coverage.
Reapply Every 2 Hours – Or immediately after excessive sweating/toweling off.
Don’t Miss Key Areas – Ears, neck, back of hands, and lips (use SPF lip balm).
Layer with Other Protection – Wear a hat, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing.
Additional Sun Protection Tips for Cricket Players
Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat or Cap – Reduces direct sun exposure.
Use UV-Blocking Sunglasses – Protects eyes from glare and UV damage.
Stay Hydrated – Sun exposure increases dehydration risk.
Take Breaks in Shade – Minimize prolonged sun exposure during intervals.
Conclusion
For cricket players and athletes, zinc oxide sunscreen is the ultimate defense against harmful UV rays. Its sweat-resistant, long-lasting, and skin-friendly properties make it far superior to chemical sunscreens for sports.
By choosing the right SPF 30-50+ zinc sunscreen, applying it correctly, and combining it with other protective measures, athletes can stay safe, perform better, and maintain healthy skin even under the harshest sun.
At Athlix, we prioritize performance and protection—because great athletes know that sun safety is just as important as training hard!