10 Righteous Sunscreens for Surfing
If you love surfing you need a great sunscreen to keep you protected from the damaging UV rays. Read our guide today and learn more!
Why Sunscreens are a Necessity for Surfing
As a surfer, you want to be careful about the sunscreen you use. The sun’s rays are more intense at the beach and can reflect off the water, making it even easier to get sunburned. A good surfer sunscreen will have a high SPF rating and be water resistant.
Surfers and beach bums need the best sunscreen to protect their skin from the sun the damaging UV rays.
Why Sunscreen for Surfing
Sunscreen is important for everyone, but it’s especially crucial for surfers who are constantly in and out of the water. The sun can cause serious damage to your skin, so it’s important to use a sunscreen that will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
How Does Sunscreen Help
Surfing is a popular water sport that people enjoy all around the world. The waves and the sun can be extremely harsh on a surfer's skin, so it's important to wear sunscreen when surfing. The sunscreen will help protect the surfer from getting sunburned and can also help prevent skin cancer. Surfers need to reapply sunscreen often, especially if they are in the water for long periods of time. Wearing sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun.
What Happens if You Don't Wear Sunscreen
Most people are aware of the importance of sun protection, but many still don't bother to use it regularly and the harmful UV rays aren't letting up. While it's true that sunscreen can be a hassle, the consequences of not wearing it are much worse. Without sunscreen, you're at risk for sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging, and DNA and cellular damage.
Sunburn is the most obvious consequence of not wearing sunscreen. Even if you're only out in the sun for a short time, you can still get a sunburn if you have no sun protection on.
Avoid the Pain
Sunburns are painful and can lead to long-term damage, such as skin cancer especially if you have a history of f sunburns. They can also contribute to premature aging with a rate of 90% of premature aging attributed to sun exposure.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most serious consequence of not wearing sunscreen in the sun. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans, (that's 20%) will develop skin cancer in their lifetime by the time they reach age 70. Melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, is on the rise, particularly among young adults. Wearing sunscreen can help reduce your risk of skin cancer.
Most Dermatologists recommend wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher.
The Real Issue at Stake
UV radiation is a proven human carcinogen, causing basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). These types of cancers often appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin. Fortunately, when discovered and treated early, these common skin cancers are usually curable.
UV exposure that leads to sunburn has proven to play a strong role in developing melanoma, a dangerous type of skin cancer. Research shows that the UV rays that damage skin can also alter a gene that suppresses tumors, raising the risk of sun-damaged skin cells developing into skin cancer.
Are Tanning Beds Safe
The use of tanning beds has additionally contributed to increased skin cancer rates.
It’s simple: don't use a tanning bed - ever! Indoor tans are dangerous and may cause melanoma, the most common type of skin cancer. Using one before age 35 increases your risk by 75%.
The reality is that people are getting skin cancer from using tanning beds and it's not worth the risk, no matter how "safe" the operator claims the machine is. Just don't do it - there are plenty of other ways to get that sun-kissed look without risking your health to radiation.
What are UVA and UVB Rays
UV radiation is a natural form of energy produced by the sun. On an electromagnetic spectrum, it has shorter wavelengths than visible light so your eyes can't see it but you may feel its effects on skin cells from tanning beds or from being out in direct sunlight without a protective sunscreen or even protective eyewear for too long - both factors contribute to increased risks associated Cataracts and eyelid cancers which are usually caused after unprotected exposure with up-close contact over time with these harmful rays.
UVA, UVB and UVC
UVC is kept at bay by the ozone, a main reason to be conscientious about caring for our environment. By taking measures that care and protect this vital protective mechanism we can ensure continued protection from this deadly sun ray.
Today we will focus on these two main types of UV radiation: UVA and UVB.
UVA rays make up 95% of the UV radiation that does reach the Earth's surface. They are less intense than UVB rays but can penetrate deeper into the skin, causing damage to our cellular DNA. UVA rays can also contribute to premature aging and wrinkling of the skin and damage melanin formation which is the color of our skin.
Damaged skin Cells
Damaged skin cell's will present as discoloration, age spots and hyperpigmentation (overproduction of melanin) and hypopigmentation (no melanin production). Typically hypopigmentation will present as white spots on your skin. This is when the skin cell is damaged and no longer produces color through melanin. Generally this can be seen in skin of older population but may appear in skin from people who have had excessive damage caused by sun exposure and or sunburn.
UVB rays attribute to sunburns whereas UVA rays cause premature aging and wrinkles. Both rays damage the DNA and can cause mutations in genetics which can lead to skin cancer.
Wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen with a SPF 30 or higher can help protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are created equal. When choosing a sunscreen, it’s important to look for a few key features:
- Broad spectrum: A broad spectrum sunscreen will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF 30 or higher: The SPF, or sun protection factor, is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect you from UVB and UVA rays.
- Water resistant: If you’re going to be sweating or swimming, it’s important to choose a water-resistant sunscreen.
It’s also important to remember that no sunscreen is completely waterproof or sweatproof, so you will need to reapply it often, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. The skin cancer foundation recommends applying 15 minutes before going outdoors and at least reapplying at 2 hours.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. In general, if you sweat or are swimming it is recommended to reapply sunscreen after you get out of the water or dry off with a towel.
How to Apply Sunscreen
When applying sunscreen, it’s important to use enough to cover all exposed skin. Most people only apply 25-50% of the recommended amount, which lowers the sunscreen’s effectiveness.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using 1 ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass, of sunscreen to cover your entire body. Be sure to apply it evenly and generously to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and hands. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your lips—you can use a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen.
You should also apply sunscreen to any skin not covered by clothing, such as your legs or arms. If you’re wearing a bathing suit, be sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of the skin.
Make sure to check the expiration date on your sunscreen and discard any that are more than 3 years old.
When to Wear Sunscreen
You should wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate clouds, so you’re still at risk for sun damage even when it’s overcast.
You should also wear sunscreen year-round. UV rays are present even in the winter, so it’s important to protect your skin from sun damage all year long.
If you plan on being outdoors for an extended period of time, be sure to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Wearing sunscreen is just one way to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. You should also wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats, when possible. And remember to seek shade whenever possible.
Premature aging is another side effect of not wearing sunscreen. Ultraviolet rays from the sun cause damage to collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. So if you want to stay looking young, be sure to use sun protection every day!
How to Safely Enjoy the Sun
While it's important to take precautions when spending time in the sun, that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors all day. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors while still staying safe from the sun's harmful rays.
According to the skin cancer foundation wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats. using synthetic and semi-synthetic clothing like polyester or rayon as well as fibers that are tightly woven such as denim or corduroy are particularly helpful especially in those who have had previous skin cancer, have a history of sunburns or are at an increased risk of UV damage due to certain medications or Fitzpatrick skin types I and II.
Seek shade when possible, especially during the midday hours when the sun's rays are the strongest, 10am-2pm.
Avoid tanning beds.
Check your skin regularly for changes, such as new or unusual moles, and see a doctor if you notice anything suspicious. Recommended practice is to have annual checkups for early detections.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the outdoors while still staying safe from the sun's harmful rays.
What Key Factors are needed in Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are created equal. That’s why we’ve curated a selection of the 10 best sunscreens for surfers – so you can choose the one that’s perfect for you. We included a variety of options, including waterproof sunscreen, sport sunscreen, and reef-safe sunscreens. So no matter what your needs are, we have you covered.
Follow along to learn more about our reviews of surf-specific sunscreens!
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Here are the list of top 10 best sunscreen for surfing
Yaya Organics
Why It Makes Our Top List
Yaya Organics Organics is a company committed to providing you with quality products that are not only safe for your skin but also good enough in every way possible. They've created this zinc sunscreen lotion specifically designed so it can be used by athletes and people who work outdoors so it's perfect as a surf sunscreen.
This product can keep out damaging rays while leaving behind nothing but hydrated protection from harmful UVA/UVB light waves without any compromising fragrance or other unwanted additives like oxybenzone found naturally occurring within most commercial brands today which can cause breakouts and wrinkles. And with non-nano zinc oxide, you can be sure you are limiting toxins. Your sensitive skin will thank you!
What Key Things to Know
Ready to hit the beach or the slopes? Don't forget your Yaya organics sport mineral sunscreen! This broad spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen will protect you from harmful UVA and UVB rays while you enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. And it's not just effective, it's also pure and hydrating!
This sun protection formula is powered by minerals and is organic with natural hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, mango butter, coconut oil, raspberry seed oil, green tea extract, calendula, sea buckthorn, and pomegranate extract. It's free from parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, or toxic chemicals.
Plus, it's water resistant for up to 80 minutes and reef friendly making it ideal for your next surfing ride! So go ahead and enjoy the outdoors worry-free with Yaya organics sport mineral sunscreen. Formulated with zinc oxide.
Why It Makes Our Top List
Looking for a sunscreen that won't leave your skin feeling sticky or oily? Meet Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion, our lightweight and refreshingly scented SPF 50 sunscreen.
Powered by broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, this lotion is perfect for active days spent outdoors. And because it's water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, you can rest assured that your skin is protected no matter how much fun you're having. Best of all, it's reef-friendly and free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it safe for use on coral reefs.
What Key Things to Know
Every day is a chance to start anew, which is why we created our Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion. It not only provides high-performance protection from UVA, UVB, and IRA rays, but it's also packed with skin-nourishing ingredients. Plus, our clean and reef-friendly formula is perfect for active days spent riding waves. So go ahead and enjoy your day in the sun!
With sunflower extract a form of beta carotene and precursor to vitamin A you'll get additional doses of protection from use. Rosemary leaf adds antioxidants to help fight free radicals from damage.
Why It Makes Our Top List
Introducing the MAKEPREM Moisture Hybrid Sun Cream UV Defense SPF 50+, the perfect sunscreen for those who want it all! This hydrating sunscreen formula contains 88% hydrating ingredients and a blend of physical and chemical sunscreen for complete sun protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Plus, it feels just like a moisturizer, providing long-lasting hydration without any white cast.
Quickly absorbed into the skin, it's also the perfect makeup base, providing a radiant glow that lasts for hours. Plus, its non-nano mineral filters give a soft matte finish that won't cake up your makeup.
What Key Things to Know
Their Moisture Hybrid Sun Cream is the perfect blend of hydration and SPF protection, giving you all the benefits of both in one handy tube.
With a strong SPF of 50+, this sun cream will keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays, while still allowing it to breathe and stay hydrated. It's perfect for everyday use, whether you're spending time outdoors or just want an extra layer of protection against the sun. With Kukui Nut for skin calming and Tamarind Seed Extract and Panthenol for skin barrier function, your skin will be protected.
The Moisture Hybrid Sun Cream is also lightweight and non-greasy, so it won't leave your skin feeling oily or heavy. And because it's packed with moisturizing ingredients like Shea Butter and Sunflower Seed oil, you can rest assured knowing that your skin is being taken care of!
The MAKEPREM Moisture Hybrid Sun Cream UV Defense SPF 50+ is the perfect solution for those who want the best of both worlds when it comes to sun protection. With both chemical and physical blockers, this sunscreen provides comprehensive coverage against UV rays.
This rapidly melting cream will ensure a smooth coverage wherever you apply it. It goes on quickly and easily, and you won't experience that 'bundling' that you might find with other products. Just apply an appropriate amount to your skin and make sure you bend it into your skin, and away you go!
The MAKEPREM Moisture Hybrid Sun Cream UV Defense SPF 50+ is more than just a sun block. It also deeply moisturizes your skin at the same time and it's reef friendly, great for use in the waves. And that's why we think it's great. So why not give it a try today?
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Why It Makes Our Top List
Introducing Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion! This vegan and reef-friendly sunscreen is ideal for everyday use, whether you're spending a day at the beach or just enjoying some time outdoors.
Formulated with zinc oxide and enriched with vitamin E, our sunscreen lotion provides broad spectrum protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Plus, it's water resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can enjoy your time in the sun worry-free.
What Key Things to Know
Sun Bum is formulated for the beach and surfer enthusiast. Formulated to protect against UVA and UVB with water resistance and Vitamin E to added antioxidants. This product is approved by the Skin Cancer Foundation and is reef friendly and vegan friendly. It's also octinoxate & oxybenzone free limiting your chemical toxicity.
Alba Botanica Sport Mineral SPF 45
Skin Cancer Foundation - Biodegradable, Water Resistant
Why It Makes Our Top List
Looking for a natural sunscreen that won't weigh you down? Alba Botanica Sport Sunscreen Lotion is perfect for active folks who want to enjoy the sun without worrying about harmful UV rays.
Made with a lightweight, plant-based blend of botanical ingredients, this 100% vegetarian formula is water resistant for up to 80 minutes and provides broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Plus, it's free of harsh chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and synthetic fragrances, so you can feel good about using it on your skin. And like all Alba Botanica products, it's cruelty-free and never tested on animals.
What Key Things to Know
Introducing Alba Botanica Sport Sunscreen Lotion, your new best friend for all things sun-related!
This amazing sunscreen is made with botanical ingredients like ginkgo biloba leaf extract and aloe leaf juice, shea butter which absorb quickly for a smooth, non-greasy finish.
This sunscreen is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, and it's sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Plus, it's made with 100% vegetarian ingredients, and it does not contain any oxybenzone, octinoxate, synthetic fragrances, parabens, or gluten. And if that wasn't enough, it's also biodegradable and not tested on animals.
Bull Frog SPF 50 Quick Gel
Water Armour Tech-Dries Instantly- Water, Sweat Resistant
Why It Makes Our Top List
Bullfrog Land Sport Quik Gel Sunscreen SPF 50: This gel sunscreen goes on quickly and easily, making it ideal for surfers who don’t want to waste time applying sunscreen. It has an SPF of 50 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
What Key Things to Know
Introducing the new Bullfrog Quick Gel Sunscreen! This classic formula has been engineered to defend your skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays since 1985. With its broad spectrum protection and long-lasting sweat resistance, this sunscreen is perfect for any outdoor activity.
The reef-friendly oxybenzone-free and octinoxate-free formulas are also enriched with antioxidants and soothing plant extracts to help heal and protect your skin in even the harshest environments. So whether you're spending a day at the beach or hiking in the mountains, Bullfrog Quick Gel Sunscreen will keep you protected from head to toe.
Why It Makes Our Top List
Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70: This broad-spectrum sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has an SPF of 70. It’s also non-greasy and has a light, clean smell.
What Key Things to Know
Introducing Neutrogena Beach Defense Water Resistant Sunscreen Lotion! This long-lasting sunscreen is designed for your active family's outdoor activities. It's lightweight and oil-free, making it easy to apply, and perfect for all skin types.
Plus, it's PABA-free and packed with SPF 70 for superior broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. And like all of our sunscreens, it's water resistant for up to 80 minutes so you can enjoy your time in the sun worry-free. This is the #1 Dermatologist recommended brand.
So whether you're hitting the beach for some waves or just enjoying a day outside, Neutrogena Beach Defense Water Resistant Sunscreen Lotion has you covered!
Why It Makes Our Top List
If you're looking for an SPF that can keep up with your active lifestyle, look no further than Thinksport sunscreen. This broad spectrum UVA & UVB sun cream is perfect for daily use, even on sensitive skin.
The quick-absorbing, non-greasy formula won't leave your skin feeling sticky or oily, and offers gentle defense against the sun's harmful rays. Plus, it's water resistant - ideal for surfing and other sports activities. Formulated with clean, mineral ingredients, Thinksport sunscreen is also vegan and Leaping Bunny certified. So you can feel good about using it on yourself and your family.
What Key Things to Know
This whole foods premium favorite is free from BPA, PABA, phthalates, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, and other toxic chemicals.
This water-resistant sunscreen is ideal for surfing and water sports and other activities that make you sweat. It provides continuous protection for up to 80 minutes, so you can enjoy your time in the pool or sea without having to worry about re-applying. Plus, it's safe for both you and the environment. Reef-friendly and highly biodegradable, this non-toxic sunscreen is produced in the USA using only the best ingredients. So go ahead and enjoy your time in the sun – with Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen, you're covered!
Why It Makes Our Top List
Hawaiian Tropic Island Sport Sunscreen Spray
SPF 30: This lightweight spray is perfect for surfers who don’t want to feel weighed down by their sunscreen. It has a broad spectrum of SPF 30 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
What Key Things to Know
Looking for a sunscreen spray that will last through all your outdoor adventures? Look no further than Hawaiian Tropic Island Sport Sunscreen Spray!
This water-resistant spray provides up to 80 minutes of broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, making it ideal for beach days, outdoor runs, and more. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula won't run into your eyes, and the luxurious tropical scent will make you feel like you're on vacation even if you're just in your backyard. So go ahead and explore the great outdoors with Hawaiian Tropic Island Sport Sunscreen Spray!
Made with Island Botanicals to soothe and hydrate the skin with a light tropical scent. Dermatologist tested and free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, this sunscreen is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Why It Makes Our Top List
Introducing the Coppertone SPORT line of sunscreens! Whether you're hitting the beach, the pool, or just enjoying a day outside, these products will keep you protected from the sun's harmful rays. The spray sunscreen is easy to apply and water resistant, while the mineral sunscreen lotion is free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, parabens, dyes, and fragrance. Voted the most trusted sunscreen brand by American shoppers, Coppertone SPORT is a great choice for any activity.
What Key Things to Know
Looking for a sunscreen that won't clog your pores or irritate your skin? Coppertone Sport SPF 15-50 sunscreens are perfect for active people who want the best possible sun protection without any harsh chemicals.
Made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, these mineral sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. And they're free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, phthalates, and dyes. So you can feel good about putting them on your skin. Plus, they're gentle enough for everyday use. So you can enjoy the outdoors surfing without worrying about sun damage.
Best Sunscreens for Surfing
So, whether you’re a beginner surfer just starting to hit the waves or an experienced pro looking for the perfect sunscreen for your next competition, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the 10 best sunscreens for surfing and order your favorite today. And don’t forget to stock up on some SPF-rated clothing too – that way you can be sure to stay safe and protected from the sun no matter where your adventures take you.
Thanks for reading! Here's to some righteous waves!
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