Sunscreen for surfing

When preparing to enjoy the waves while surfing, it is crucial to take measures to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Prolonged sun exposure during surf sessions can have long-term detrimental effects, ranging from painful sunburns to more serious skin problems such as premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen for surfing plays an essential role in preventing these issues. In this article, we will examine in detail the importance of applying sunscreen when surfing, the advantage of using sunscreen specially designed for surfing, and the different available formats.

1. Why is it important to apply sunscreen while surfing?

Surfing is an activity that directly exposes you to the sun’s rays for extended periods. The water and sand reflect UV rays, increasing your overall exposure. It is therefore crucial to apply sunscreen to protect your skin. UV rays can cause painful sunburns, damage the DNA of your skin cells, resulting in premature skin aging, pigmentation spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer. By regularly using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate sun protection factor (SPF), you significantly reduce these risks and preserve the health of your skin.

2. Why use special sunscreen for surfing?

a) Durability:

Surfing conditions can be extreme, exposing your skin to aggressive elements such as saltwater, strong winds, and abrasive sand for long hours. Sunscreen specially formulated for surfing is designed to withstand these challenging conditions and remain effective for 4 hours or more when a regular sunscreen purchased at a pharmacy or supermarket needs to be reapplied every 2 hours or even less when used during surfing. Surf sunscreens are much more durable, adhere better to the skin, and remain effective even in the presence of water and sweat. They are thicker, less aesthetically pleasing, but much more resistant. This ensures reliable and long-lasting protection throughout your surf session.

b) Eye-Friendly:

When you’re in the water, it’s common for saltwater, sweat, or wave splashes to reach your face. Sunscreen specifically designed for surfing is formulated to not run into your eyes, avoiding irritation and uncomfortable stinging. This allows you to stay focused on your surf without being distracted by discomfort.

c) Environmental Considerations:

Due to the growing importance of marine environment preservation, many brands now offer surf sunscreens labeled as “organic” or “reef-safe”. These sunscreens are formulated to minimize potentially harmful chemicals to marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. By choosing an eco-friendly surf sunscreen, you contribute to the preservation of fragile marine ecosystems while protecting yourself from the sun.

3.Which format to choose for surf sunscreen: stick, cream, or spray?

a) Stick:

Sunscreen sticks are essential for the face. They have a solid consistency and can be applied directly to the skin by spreading them properly. Sticks are often compact and easy to carry, making them ideal for surf sessions when you need quick touch-ups on exposed areas. You can keep them in your pocket during your surf sessions. They are also convenient for precise application on sensitive facial areas. There are even colored sunscreen sticks available to add some fun flair!

Stick sunscreen

b) Cream: Surf sunscreens are also available in tubes or bottles with a lighter texture. They are intended for shoulders and back. They can be applied by spreading them on the skin. Make sure to apply them carefully on areas that are more intensely exposed to the sun, such as the neck, shoulders, back, and upper chest. They are also suitable if you prefer a more uniform application on the entire body. However, these sunscreens are less resistant than sticks.

Tube sunscreen cream

c) Spray: Spray sunscreens offer quick and convenient application. They provide broad and even coverage, making them ideal for extended areas of the body, such as shoulders or back, which are particularly exposed during surfing. However, it is essential to apply them carefully to avoid the dispersion of the cream in the air and ensure adequate coverage.

Spray sunscreen

Sunscreen is an essential element of sun protection when surfing. Even in winter, it is highly recommended to use sunscreen sticks for the face. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, premature skin aging, and skin cancer. By opting for a sunscreen specially formulated for surfing, you benefit from enhanced protection due to its resistance to the elements, its non-irritating properties for the eyes, and, in some cases, its environmentally friendly formulation. Prefer the stick format for the face and cream or spray for the shoulders and back.