As an expert in the world of surfing, I have seen countless surfers make the same mistake when it comes to using SPF. While sunscreen is an essential part of any surfer's routine, there are some common mistakes that can lead to sunburns and skin damage. In this guide, I will share with you the most common mistakes surfers make when using SPF and how to avoid them.
Not Using Enough SPF
One of the biggest mistakes surfers make is not using enough SPF. Many people think that a thin layer of sunscreen is enough to protect their skin, but this is not the case.The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using at least one ounce of sunscreen (about the size of a shot glass) to cover your entire body. However, for surfers who are constantly in and out of the water, it is recommended to use even more. The reason for this is that sunscreen can easily rub off when you are in the water or sweating. Therefore, it is important to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after getting out of the water. If you are spending a full day at the beach, you may need to bring a travel-sized bottle of sunscreen with you to reapply throughout the day.
Not Applying Sunscreen Before Going into the Water
Another common mistake surfers make is not applying sunscreen before going into the water.Many people wait until they are already at the beach to apply sunscreen, but this is not effective. Sunscreen needs time to absorb into your skin and create a protective barrier. If you wait until you are already at the beach, your skin will be exposed to harmful UV rays for a longer period of time. It is recommended to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going into the water. This will give the sunscreen enough time to absorb into your skin and provide maximum protection.
If you are in a rush, you can use a sunscreen spray that can be applied quickly and easily.
Not Using Water-Resistant SPF
When it comes to surfing, it is important to use a water-resistant SPF. Regular sunscreen will easily wash off when you are in the water, leaving your skin exposed to the sun's harmful rays. Water-resistant sunscreen is designed to stay on your skin even when you are in the water, providing long-lasting protection. However, it is important to note that water-resistant sunscreen does not mean waterproof. It will still need to be reapplied every two hours or after getting out of the water.Look for a sunscreen that is labeled as "water-resistant" and has an SPF of 30 or higher.
Not Protecting Your Lips
Many surfers forget to protect their lips from the sun's rays, which can lead to painful sunburns and chapped lips. The skin on our lips is very thin and delicate, making it more susceptible to sun damage. Therefore, it is important to use a lip balm with SPF when surfing. Look for a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. You can also find lip balms specifically designed for surfers that are water-resistant and provide extra protection against the sun's rays.Not Reapplying After Wiping Your Face
Surfing involves a lot of wiping your face with your hands or a towel, which can easily remove sunscreen from your face.Many surfers forget to reapply sunscreen after wiping their face, leaving their skin exposed to the sun's rays. It is important to reapply sunscreen to your face every time you wipe it. You can also use a sunscreen stick or powder that can be easily applied without having to rub it in with your hands.
Not Using SPF on Cloudy Days
Many surfers make the mistake of thinking that they do not need to use SPF on cloudy days. However, up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can still penetrate through clouds, so it is important to protect your skin even on cloudy days. Make sure to apply sunscreen even on cloudy days and reapply every two hours or after getting out of the water. You can also wear a rash guard or wetsuit with built-in SPF for extra protection.Not Using SPF Every Day
Lastly, one of the biggest mistakes surfers make is not using SPF every day.Many people only think about using sunscreen when they are going to the beach or spending a day in the sun. However, UV rays can still damage your skin on a daily basis, even if you are not spending a lot of time outdoors. Make it a habit to use SPF every day, even if you are just running errands or going for a walk. This will help protect your skin from long-term damage and premature aging.
In Conclusion
As an expert in surfing, I cannot stress enough the importance of using SPF when hitting the waves. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your skin stays protected and healthy while enjoying your favorite sport.Remember to use enough SPF, apply it before going into the water, use water-resistant sunscreen, protect your lips, reapply after wiping your face, use SPF on cloudy days, and make it a daily habit. Your skin will thank you in the long run.
