Introducing: Byrdie's 2025 Sweat Awards (2025)

There's been a rather remarkable shift over the last two years: The women who have always been competing in, tuning into, and leading the sports industry are finally getting their due. And another thing? They're proving that beauty and movement aren't mutually exclusive. In fact, they often very literally go hand-in-hand.

Our Sweat Awards Guest Judges

So without further ado, we present our inaugural Sweat Awards, which spotlight offerings specifically helpful in active situations—whether that's working out, playing a sport, dancing all night, or anything in between. Together, our editors and a panel of top athletes have tested the very best beauty products that are built to perform. What body lotion does Jordan Chiles use after a day of chalking up for the beam? What deodorant does Juju Watkins rely on in the middle of March Madness? These are the formulas we count on before, during, and after our sweatiest moments.

From long-wear makeup to sweat-proof SPF, these are the products that exceeded our expectations and earned our 2025 Sweat Awards seal of approval.

Best Face Sunscreen: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

"Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen has achieved what once felt like the impossible: effective, wearable sunscreen without any of the SPF category’s most common frustrations. The newly-updated formula goes on completely clear, has never broken me out, features a weightless finish, and doubles as a primer for makeup. With the reformulation, the brand has upped the protection to SPF 50 (from 40) while achieving an even silkier texture than before. As someone who loved the original, I’m thrilled to say it’s somehow even better." — Ali Webb, associate style editor

Best Dry Shampoo: Ceremonia Dry Shampoo con Arrowroot

"This product changed my entire perspective on dry shampoo. I was initially skeptical that a pouf applicator could give me the same level of satisfaction (and convenience) as a classic spray—but the Ceremonia Dry Shampoo Con Arrowroot proved me wrong. No matter how greasy or oily my strands get—whether from a workout or just my daily commute—a few taps of this pouf gives me a much-needed root refresh (thanks to star ingredients arrowroot and Brazilian clay). The applicator makes it easy to target specific areas, doesn't leave a white cast on my brunette roots, and layers nicely through multiple applications (without any gritty buildup). Plus, bonus points for fitting easily in my purse." — Adi Giesey, editor

Best Longwear Lip: Pound Cake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick

"Pound Cake is an award-winning, Black-owned beauty brand most known for its Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick. Available in color theory-informed shades of red and brown, these lipsticks deliver intense pigment that doesn't budge. This liquid lipstick features a semi-matte finish, but the formula still feels incredibly lightweight and nourishing. And, of course, the results are long-lasting. The pigment remains vibrant and doesn't flake for up to eight hours. P.S., my go-to shade is Strawberry, which complements my lip tone perfectly." — Olivia Hancock, senior beauty editor

Best Deodorant: Degree Whole Body Deodorant Spray

"Degree Whole Body Deodorant gives me a sense of confidence and helps eliminate any worries about odor throughout my day. It’s easy to use, dries quickly, and keeps me feeling fresh no matter where I apply it. Whether I’m heading to class, watching film, or gearing up for a big game, it’s become a must-have in my routine." —JuJu Watkins, USC Women's Basketball Star

Best Primer: e.l.f. Power Grip Face Primer

"I always gravitate towards makeup products that are easy to use, long-lasting, and get the job done. E.l.f has no shortage of formulas that cater to my needs, but the brand’s Power Grip Primer is a must in every makeup arsenal (whether you're a beginner or a pro). The cooling, gel-based formula helps prime my skin for smooth application while simultaneously locking in my makeup for all-day wear. It’s definitely called 'Power Grip' for a reason." —Jasmine Phillips, social media editor

Best Body Sunscreen: Neutrogena Clear Body SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray

"Whether it's a game of pickleball, a hot girl walk, or a rooftop Pilates class, I love to move my body outside. But I'm also prone to body acne, so lightweight sun protection is always the goal. Neutrogena has done exactly that with its new Clear Body SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray, a non-greasy, non-comedogenic, water-resistant formula that sprays on clear and offers broad-spectrum protection. The spray applicator makes it easy to reapply every two hours—and you'll actually want to, because this formula leaves your skin feeling so soft and hydrated (without any greasy feeling)." — Holly Rhue, editorial director

Best HypochlorousAcid Spray: Personal Day Trust Me on This

"Now more than ever, I'm a hypochlorous acid devotee. It is the product I rely on most to keep my skin clear and soothed. First, it's antibacterial, so it's perfect for sweaty days and refreshing pick-me-ups. On top of that, it works really well to nix redness and irritation—so, the healing properties are perfect after a treatment or laser. I was excited to try Personal Day's offering when the brand launched (the founder, Lili Reinhart, has been open about her journey with hormonal acne, so I knew I could trust it). Lo and behold, it's become a staple in my routine. The fine, comforting mist is easy to apply and fits seamlessly into my product lineup. Just make sure you let it dry completely before following up with a serum or moisturizer." — Hallie Gould, editor in chief

Best Braid Balm: Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Smooth & Shape Balm

"Whether I’m letting my curls do their thing or rocking a blowout, the Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Smooth & Shape Balm keeps my hair looking clean and put-together. It holds everything in place without feeling stiff. It's packed with castor oil, ginger, and black cumin seed, which helps keep my hair healthy and strong—which is so important with the many style changes and hours I spend on the court." — Coco Gauff, professional tennis player

Best Setting Spray: One/Size On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray

"Beyoncé isn't technically a pro athlete, but we can all agree that her performances are an athletic feat. So when her makeup artist touts a product for its wear time, you listen. The One/Size On ‘Til Dawn Setting Spray was MUA Rokael Lizama's product of choice for locking in Queen Bey’s beats during the "Renaissance World Tour." The waterproof, transfer-proof formula kept her glam locked in through rain-soaked concerts and has since kept my glam locked in through innumerable NYC commutes (which is a contact sport of sorts). This is all while imparting a natural, matte-not-flat finish." —Eden Stuart, editor

Best Anti-Chafe Stick: Dove Anti-Chafe Whole Body Deo

"A swipe of Dove deodorant has always been my little secret for skin chafing, so it's thrilling to see the brand explore this purpose in an official capacity with the launch of a dedicated Anti-Chafe Deodorant Stick. The formula protects from both odor and irritation while keeping skin nourished. And, true to its name, dermatologists and gynecologists have cleared the product for use wherever you want to most. If you're an athlete, avid gym-goer, or just love to move your body, this multi-tasker just may change your world." — Ali Webb, associate style editor

Best Face Wash: Sofie Pavitt Face Clean Clean Cleanser

"Close your eyes and picture the most perfect cleanser—this is that. Sofie Pavitt Face's Clean Clean Cleanser is as basic as it gets, but in the best way possible. The fragrance-free gel has no bells or whistles, but quickly works into an ultra-foamy lather that goes to town on makeup, sweat, sunscreen, and city grime. Despite its powerful clean—I often skip a pre-cleanse when I use it—it never leaves my skin feeling dry or stripped." — Bella Cacciatore, senior news editor

Best Lip Balm: Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Gloss Balm

"There’s nothing worse than the feeling of dry lips—that’s why the Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Gloss Balm is my go-to lip product. I love that it works double time: It’s a lip treatment that offers the deep hydration of a balm, but also gives me a nice glossy sheen that boosts lip volume. This formula plumps and smooths the lips for 24 hours with a unique blend of peptides that support healthy collagen levels. Whether it’s after practice, before a night out, or getting ready for bed, I always reach for this lip balm because my lips feel so soft and full after using it! I wear it on its own when I want some hydration—even as the finishing touch to my makeup look." — Ilona Maher, Olympic Rugby Player

Best Body Wash: Olay Super Serum Body Wash

"Olay’s Super Serum Body Wash includes efficacious ingredients that you'd typically find in a face serum—like brightening niacinamide, gentle BHA, and vitamins C and E to brighten and moisturize. And while it's impressive to find these ingredients in a body wash, Olay has figured out how to make these ingredients stay on the skin (even after rinsing), so you're getting those benefits all day long. This shower-disrupting technology is certainly the key draw, but I must confess: I also just love the smell. The scent is strong enough to provide a sensorial moment in the shower, but subtle enough to layer perfectly with any fragranced lotions you might use after. As a committed nighttime showerer, this one has become a highlight of my nightly unwind." — Eden Stuart, editor

Best Longwear Mascara: Milani Highly Rated Lash Extensions Mascara

"I love a waterproof mascara as much as the next girl, but I do *not* love removing it. That's why tubing mascaras are so genius—they give you all the drama of your favorite falsies, but remove easily with warm water. Milani's formula does all that and more, wrapping each lash to lift, lengthen, and volmize for under $15. So whether your day holds a sweaty workout or office-to-drinks-to-dinner, it won't budge—that is, until you're ready to take it off." — Bella Cacciatore, senior news editor

Best Barrier Repair: Rhode Barrier Butter

"Leave it to Hailey Bieber to create the cream equivalent of a hug. This thick balm provides the perfect protective layer when your skin barrier needs a little extra TLC. (Think: stubborn dry spots or irritation from extreme temperatures.) As someone with sensitive skin, this balm has quickly become a mainstay in my daily routine. The luxurious formula is fragrance-free, packed with hydrating ingredients, and was awarded the Seal of Acceptance by the National Eczema Association. But the true beauty of this formulais its versatility. I use it to spot treat dry patches, as the last layer in a "slugging" routine, or as a head-to-toe, heavy-duty moisturizer." — Adi Giesey, editor

Best Strong Hold Brow Gel: Benefit 24-Hour Brow Setter Gel

"There's a reason this brow gel is so ubiquitous. 24-Hour Brow Setter is quite simply the best brow gel out there—it's completely clear, features a unique comb applicator that gets down to the root of each hair, and holds brows in place without shellacking them flat to my forehead. This is a product I've worn almost every single day for years, and one that has held up through humid subway stations, sweaty boxing workouts, my wedding day, and every important brow day in between." — Holly Rhue, editorial director

Best Body Lotion: Vaseline Radiant X Firm & Restore Body Lotion

"Vaseline has been a staple in my beauty routine ever since I can remember. Recently, I have been obsessed with the Radiant X collection, especially the Firm + Restore Body Lotion. The 2% Moisture Firming Complex is a mix of pro-retinol, niacinamide, and petroleum jelly, perfect for keeping my skin glowing and hydrated. Firm + Restore is also enriched with coconut oil and ultra-hydrating lipids to give me truly luxe moisture. If you're serious about skincare, you need this lotion—I keep it in my gym bag, locker, and even take it with me when I travel." —Jordan Chiles, 2x Olympic Gymnast

Best Bath Soak: Osea Vagus Nerve Bath Oil

"As far as I'm concerned, this is a miracle elixir. Something about this earthy, botincal scent rivals the relaxing effects of melatonin for me, lulling me into a state of sheer, unbothered bliss. It's my go-to when I know I haven't been sleeping well or have been pushing my body too hard (physically and mentally). It's the perfect reset, and leaves my skin feeling so soft and cared for. If ever you can't find me, assume I'm in the warm cocoon of my Osea Vagus Nerve Bath Oil." — Holly Rhue, editorial director

Best Hold for Curls: Tresemmé Bouncy Curls Defining Mousse

"I've been using the Tresemmé Flawless Curls Mousse for months, and it's quickly become a permanent part of my styling routine. My curls absolutely love this pro-approved mousse, which hydrates with ingredients like coconut and avocado oil, while offering 24 hours of hold. My hair is always beautifully defined, shiny, and—most importantly—crunch-free whenever I use this product. It's truly a wash-day game changer." — Olivia Hancock, senior beauty editor

Best Longwear Complexion Product: Urban Decay Face Bond Self-Setting Waterproof Foundation

"This foundation survived the "Sweat Tour," so obviously it wins a Sweat Award. From Charli XCX concerts to Bushwick raves, this self-setting foundation has gotten me through the stickiest of situations. Urban Decay's Face Bond has never failed me; it gives me smooth, satiny skin that genuinely lasts day and night without any texture or patchiness." — Derek Deng, associate content editor

Best Hairspray: Nexxus Comb Thru Flexible-Hold Hairspray

"If you’re looking for a hairspray that holds your style without making your hair stiff and sticky, look no further than Nexxus Comb Thru Flexible Hairspray. It protects my hairstyle from daily manipulation, wind, and moisture without leaving my hair looking frozen in place, which can be of particular concern when I straighten my hair. With this formula, my hair still has beautiful movement, shine, and bounce—it's really made me believe in the power of hairspray again." — Star Donaldson, social media director

Best Recovery Day Product: Therabody TheraFace Depuffing Wand

"I don't know if it has more to do with my lifestyle or my genetics, but trust me when I say I am very prone to puffiness and water retention. It's just the way my face works. So, when Therabody (a brand I already knew and loved for their LED masks and massage guns) launched this handy depuffing tool, I starting using it immediately. The best part? It has both cold and heat settings you can use to customize based on your needs. I start with the warm setting at the beginning of my morning skincare routine to encourage lymphatic drainage, and finish off with the cold to depuff my under-eyes. It's also a beautiful thing to have on a hot day or post-workout. It's heaven." — Hallie Gould, editor in chief

Best Hair Gel: Crown Affair The Finishing Gel

"If you subscribe to the myth that strong hold equates to crunchy hair, you haven’t met the Crown Affair Finishing Gel. This innovative, gel-cream hybrid offers buildable hold that secures my hair without sacrificing softness. But the real genius isn't in the hold, it's in the release. Just pass a brush through your hair to release your tight style, no shampoo required. I can work out with a slicked-back ponytail, then head straight to the office with my hair down—all without re-wetting my hair in the shower. It's an absolute game-changer." — Adi Giesey, editor

Best Slick Stick: Briogeo Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Styling Sleek Stick

"I love a slick bun—it easily elevates a look and also allows for more time between wash days. But, my curly hair is quite prone to flyaways. Briogeo's Sleek Stick is all I need to keep the style locked in place, and it offers some shine and gloss to boot." — Hallie Gould, editor in chief