As an expert in the world of surfing, I have witnessed numerous sunburns and skin damage among fellow surfers. While the thrill of catching the perfect wave is unbeatable, it's crucial to remember to protect your skin from the harsh UV rays. And that's where SPF products come in.
The Importance of SPF for Surfers
Surfers spend hours out in the sun, making them more susceptible to sunburns and skin damage. The reflection of the sun off the water also increases the intensity of UV rays, putting surfers at an even higher risk.This is why choosing the right SPF product is crucial for surfers.
Common Mistakes Surfers Make When Choosing an SPF Product
Unfortunately, many surfers make mistakes when it comes to choosing an SPF product. These mistakes can lead to inadequate protection and even skin damage. Here are some of the most common mistakes surfers make when choosing an SPF product:Not Checking the SPF Level
The first mistake many surfers make is not checking the SPF level of their sunscreen. The SPF level indicates how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned.For example, if you usually get sunburned after 10 minutes in the sun, an SPF 30 will protect you for 300 minutes (10 minutes x 30 SPF). However, this is only if you apply enough sunscreen and reapply it regularly. Many surfers assume that a higher SPF means better protection, but this is not always the case. According to dermatologists, there is not much difference between an SPF 30 and an SPF 50. In fact, an SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF 50 blocks 98%.
So, don't be fooled by a higher SPF and make sure to reapply your sunscreen regularly.
Not Choosing a Water-Resistant Formula
Another common mistake surfers make is not choosing a water-resistant formula. Surfing involves a lot of water, and regular sunscreen will wash off quickly. This is why it's important to choose a water-resistant formula that will stay on your skin even when you're in the water. However, it's important to note that no sunscreen is completely waterproof. Water-resistant sunscreens can only withstand water for a certain amount of time before they start to wash off.So, make sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or after getting out of the water.
Not Considering the Ingredients
Many surfers don't pay attention to the ingredients in their SPF products, which can be a big mistake. Some ingredients can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin. It's important to read the label and avoid ingredients like oxybenzone, which can cause hormonal disruptions. Instead, look for mineral-based sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients are gentle on the skin and provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.Not Applying Enough Sunscreen
One of the biggest mistakes surfers make is not applying enough sunscreen.Many people only apply a thin layer of sunscreen, which is not enough to provide adequate protection. The recommended amount of sunscreen for the entire body is about one ounce (a shot glass full).Make sure to apply enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of your body, including your face, ears, and neck. And don't forget to reapply every two hours or after getting out of the water.
Not Considering the Time of Day
Lastly, many surfers don't consider the time of day when choosing an SPF product. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm, so it's important to choose a sunscreen with a higher SPF during these hours.If you're surfing during the early morning or late afternoon, an SPF 30 should be sufficient.
