How often should I reapply sunscreen?

A common label direction is to reapply at least every two hours, and sooner after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Always follow the directions on your sunscreen label.

What timer should I use for swimming or heavy sweating?

Many water-resistant sunscreens list 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance. This page includes an 80 minute swim or sweat preset, but you should check your own product label and reapply after towel drying.

Can I use this sunscreen timer for kids?

Yes. The large visual countdown and reapply prompts work well for family beach days, playground time, camps, and outdoor sports. Adults should handle sunscreen application for younger children.

Sunscreen reapplication timer

Reapply sunscreen on time

Start a clear reminder for sunscreen reapplication during beach days, pool time, sports, yard work, camp, or long outdoor play.

Custom reminder time

minutes

2:00:00

Ready for outdoor time

Apply sunscreen first, then start the reminder before heading out.

Apply enough sunscreen and cover easy-to-miss spots.

How to use the sunscreen timer

Apply sunscreen before sun exposure, following your product label.
Choose the 2 hour preset for normal outdoor reapplication reminders.
Use the swim/sweat preset when water, sports, or towel drying are involved.
Keep the page open so the visual countdown and final alert are easy to notice.

        Quick SPF checklist
        Face, ears, neck, shoulders, hands, and tops of feet are easy to miss.
Reapply sooner after swimming, sweating heavily, or towel drying.
Use shade, hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing too.
Check the label for water-resistance timing and age guidance.

      

Helpful presets for common outdoor plans

2 hoursBeach day, picnic, yard work, recess, camp, errands

80 minutesSwimming, splash pads, sweaty sports, active kids

60 minutesHigh UV, fair skin, midday sun, extra-cautious check-in

Sunscreen timer FAQ

Does this replace the directions on my sunscreen bottle?

No. Use this as a reminder, but follow the directions on your own sunscreen label. Different products have different water-resistance and application instructions.

Why is the main preset two hours?

Two hours is a common reapplication interval for sunscreen during continued sun exposure. Swimming, sweating, and towel drying can mean reapplying sooner.

What if my sunscreen says 40 minutes water resistant?

Set a custom 40 minute timer or use a shorter preset. The safest choice is the one that matches your product label and activity.

Can I pause the timer?

Yes. Pause if your outdoor activity stops, then reset or choose a fresh reminder after reapplying sunscreen.