As an experienced surfer, I know the feeling of being out on the waves, with the sun beating down on my skin and the saltwater spraying in my face. It's a unique and exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, one of which is protecting our skin from the sun's harmful rays. That's where SPF comes in.
The Importance of SPF for Surfers
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects our skin from UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn. As surfers, we spend hours out in the sun, making us more susceptible to sun damage.And while getting a tan may seem like a badge of honor, it's important to remember that tanned skin is damaged skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, surfers are at a higher risk for developing skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to the sun and its reflection off the water. In fact, studies have shown that surfers have a 5% higher risk of developing melanoma compared to non-surfers. But it's not just about preventing skin cancer. Sun damage can also lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and dark spots. So if you want to keep your youthful glow and protect your health, SPF should be an essential part of your surfing routine.
Choosing the Right SPF
When it comes to choosing an SPF for surfing, there are a few things to keep in mind.First and foremost, you want to make sure you're using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for aging and can penetrate through clouds and glass, while UVB rays are responsible for burning and are more intense during the summer months. The next thing to consider is the SPF level. The general rule of thumb is to use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This will block about 97% of UVB rays, giving you a good level of protection.
However, keep in mind that no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, so it's important to reapply regularly and seek shade when possible. Another factor to consider is water resistance. As surfers, we're constantly in and out of the water, so it's important to choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant for at least 80 minutes. This will ensure that your sunscreen stays on even when you're catching waves.
Applying SPF Correctly
Now that you know what to look for in an SPF, it's important to know how to apply it correctly. Many people make the mistake of not using enough sunscreen or not reapplying often enough.The general rule is to use about one ounce (a shot glass full) of sunscreen for your entire body and to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It's also important to apply your sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading out into the sun. This allows the sunscreen to fully absorb into your skin and provide maximum protection. When applying sunscreen, don't forget those easy-to-miss spots like your ears, lips, and feet. And if you're wearing a wetsuit, make sure to apply sunscreen underneath as well.
SPF Alternatives for Surfers
If you're not a fan of traditional sunscreen, there are other options available for surfers. One popular alternative is zinc oxide, which provides physical protection by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting the sun's rays.Zinc oxide is also water-resistant and won't sting your eyes if it gets in them. Another option is rash guards or surf shirts with built-in SPF. These are a great choice for surfers who don't want to worry about constantly reapplying sunscreen. Just make sure to choose a rash guard with a high SPF rating and to still apply sunscreen to any exposed areas.
The Bottom Line
As surfers, we love the sun, but we also need to protect ourselves from its harmful rays. SPF should be an essential part of our surfing routine, just like waxing our boards or checking the surf report.By choosing the right SPF, applying it correctly, and using alternatives like zinc oxide or rash guards, we can enjoy our time in the waves while keeping our skin healthy and protected.
