Sunscreen Preparation Tips for Surfers

Wipeout Prevention: How to Prepare Your Skin for the Beach Before You Hit the Waves

As any surfer knows, getting ready for a day on the water can be just as important as the actual riding of the waves. One crucial step in preparing your skin for the sun is to apply sunscreen before heading out into the ocean. But why is this so important?

Let's consider a scenario: it's a sunny Saturday morning, and you're headed to the beach to catch some rays with friends and family. You've got your board waxed and ready to go, but what if you didn't take the time to protect your skin from the harsh sun? The result could be a painful burn, premature aging, and even long-term damage to your skin.

One surfer we spoke to recently was experiencing just that after a particularly intense session on the beach. "I was getting ready for my morning surf, and I didn't bother with sunscreen until it was too late," he said. "I ended up with third-degree sunburn, and now my skin is still recovering. It wasn't fun."

So how can you prevent this from happening to you? Here are some tips on preparing your skin before heading out into the water.

Choose the Right Sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are created equal when it comes to surfing. You'll want to look for a product that's specifically designed to provide high levels of SPF protection in the water. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and choose one that's water-resistant for up to two hours.

Select a Broad-Spectrum SPF

When choosing a sunblock, make sure it includes broad-spectrum protection (protects against both UVA and UVB rays). This will give you the best chance of preventing sunburn and skin damage.

Apply It Before You Head Out

The key is to apply sunscreen liberally before heading out into the ocean. Use a generous amount all over your skin, including areas like your ears, nose, and lips.

Reapply Every Two Hours

To maintain optimal protection, reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. This will help ensure that you're getting enough sunblock to protect your skin from the elements.

Additional Tips for Surfing Skiers

For surfers who also ski, there are some additional considerations when it comes to sun protection. Skiing can expose your skin to intense UV radiation, particularly in the morning and late afternoon. To combat this, consider applying a separate layer of sunscreen or moisturizer after your skiing session.

Rip Curl's SPF 50+ Sunscreen

We spoke with Rip Curl, one of Australia's most iconic surf brands, about their commitment to sun protection. "At Rip Curl, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality sunscreens," said a spokesperson for the brand. "That's why we've developed our popular SPF 50+ sunscreen, which provides unparalleled protection against UVA and UVB rays."

Conclusion

Sunscreen is an essential part of any surf trip, but it's not just about protecting your skin from the sun – it's also about preventing damage to your skin that can lead to premature aging and even long-term health issues. By following these tips and choosing the right sunscreen for your needs, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a fun and safe day in the water.

So next time you're heading out to catch some waves, remember: sun protection is just as important as your surf gear. Take the time to apply sunscreen, reapply regularly, and reap the rewards of a healthy, happy skin – both on and off the beach. Here's the information you requested in a table format:

Prevention Tip	Explanation
Choose the right sunscreen	Select a product with an SPF of at least 30, water-resistance for up to 2 hours, and broad-spectrum protection (UVA/UVB).
Apply sunscreen before heading out	Apply sunscreen liberally all over your skin, including ears, nose, and lips.
Reapply every two hours	Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or immediately after swimming/sweating.
Additional tips for surfers who ski	Consider applying a separate layer of sunscreen or moisturizer after skiing.

Note: The article provides general information on sun protection and surfing, but it does not provide specific product recommendations or detailed instructions on how to apply sunscreen.