The most obvious risk of not using SPF while surfing is getting sunburned. As surfers, we spend hours in the water, often without shade or protection. Surfing under the sun and in salt water exposes the skin to multiple damaging factors. Intense UV radiation can damage the skin and salt water can wash away sunscreen, reducing its protective effect.
In addition, water reflects UV rays, increasing overall exposure by up to 15% and increasing the risk of sunburn. Over time, repeated exposure causes cumulative sun damage, accelerating skin aging, causing pigmentation problems, and significantly increasing the risk of skin cancer. Prolonged exposure to the sun during surf sessions can have long-term damaging effects, ranging from painful sunburn to more serious skin problems, such as premature aging and a higher risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen for surfing plays an essential role in preventing these problems.
Most commercial sunscreens contain toxic chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone. Not only do these compounds stay on the skin, but they are absorbed into the blood stream. Several studies have raised serious health problems in relation to these ingredients, as they relate them to hormonal disorders, allergic reactions and environmental damage. In fact, Hawaii and some parts of Mexico have banned certain sunscreens because they are very harmful to coral reefs.
When sunscreen comes in contact with your surfboard, it creates a slippery, greasy layer that compromises your grip. Applying sunscreen to areas such as the chest, arms, hands and legs, which are the most common contact points with the board, can make it nearly impossible to maintain balance and control of the board. This loss of control not only affects performance, but it also increases the risk of accidents, especially for beginners who are still mastering the basics of surfing. Whether in summer or all year round, surfers are among the people most exposed to the sun's rays.
It's important to understand that water reflects between 10% and 30% of UV radiation, while sand reflects between 5% and 25%. Without effective protection, such as sunscreen, you'll quickly be exposed to sunburn and, in the long term, to the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. An awareness that should encourage you to take good care of your skin when you enjoy the sun. The most effective sun protection for surfers is a combination of T-shirts with UPF 50+ factor (protective against skin rashes) and a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 50 sun protection factor to be applied to all exposed skin.
While many surfers may prioritize catching the perfect wave over applying sunscreen, the truth is that not using SPF can have serious consequences for your skin and overall health.
