Water-based compositions that are resistant to dirt pickup, efflorescence, tannin bleed-through and surfactant leaching are described. The water-based composition includes a latex or water-dispersible polymer and a non-VOC UV-VIS (preferably, ultraviolet) absorber as a dirt pickup resistance additive. Methods of making water-based compositions including a non-VOC UV-VIS absorber as an additive are also described.