Water Resistance: The Real Deal

Why doesn’t burnd SPF 41, or any sunscreen for that matter, claim to be waterproof? The FDA only allows very specific language on this point: water resistant for 40 or 80 minutes depending on the test performed. And, let's face it, the term waterproof could mean a lot of things and nothing stays on forever. At burnd we have used the most advanced formulation techniques to make sure burnd SPF 41 stays put, so use it properly and enjoy the great outdoors.

Zinc oxide isn’t naturally water-repellent so burnd uses:

• Zinc oxide with hydrophobic (water hating) coating: This technology allows the zinc oxide to be mixed into the oil phase of our formulation, the part that won’t wash off in the ocean. This technology was actually invented by one of burnd’s founders. 

• Film-forming polymers: Our film forming silicone technology creates an invisible, flexible barrier that is also the water-repelling shield that lets your skin breathe while keeping the UV filters in place.  

• Advanced water-in-oil emulsion: Our reverse emulsion (water-in-oil) formula system goes on easily and resists breaking down when exposed to water. When you apply burnd SPF 41 and gently rub it on, you “break” the emulsion and the water evaporates off leaving behind the film forming system. This system repels water, keeps the sunscreens on your skin and prevents your skin from drying out.  

• Regulatory Testing: To make the 80 minute water resistant claim, the FDA requires that this be tested on real people. burnd maintains full SPF 41 protection throughout this test and does not drop a single SPF point from start to finish.  Burnd SPF 41 is formulated to stay put.