It is known that constant exposure to the sun can affect your skin in a lot of ways, from sunburn to melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer. People who spend a lot of time outside, such as surfers, are prone to suffering these conditions more than most. Keep reading for five ways surfers can protect their skin while catching waves.
Regular Application of Sunscreen
It is not enough to just apply sunscreen in the morning and spend the entire day out on the water. Whatever the time says on the bottle is inaccurate, as it only factors in sun exposure. You need to apply sunscreen more often than what it says on the bottle, as once you hit the water, the sunscreen immediately begins to wear off. Also try to get a sunscreen with an SPF no higher than thirty or fifty, as anything with a higher SPF level only offers marginally better protection and does not offer much of a difference.
Have Aloe Vera Gel Readily Available
As diligent as you might be about applying sunscreen, there will inevitably be times when you get a sunburn. Any kind of sunburn is going to hurt, but if your sunburn is peeling, it is going to be a lot worse for you and it will take a long time to recover. One thing you can do to make the sunburn heal faster while finding relief from the heat and pain is to put aloe gel on the burn. As long as you are diligent and apply it regularly, you will find yourself feeling better in no time.
Keep Your Skin Moisturized
All of that exposure to salt water day in and day out means that you run the risk of your skin drying out if you are not careful. Try looking into something such as a coconut water lotion or moisturizer to keep your skin from drying out. It is best to wait to apply your chosen moisturizing agent when you have gone home for the night and you are getting ready for bed. This way, your body has the chance to absorb the product and make sure it is as effective as it can possibly be.
Wear a Wetsuit
It is not always the best practice to go surfing in a bathing suit. Sometimes, especially if the UV rays are intense, you might want to consider wearing a wetsuit. This protects most of your body from being affected by the sun, and will help you keep the salt water mostly off of you. A wetsuit also helps to provide insulation and heat retention if you find yourself surfing in cold waters.
Stay Hydrated
One of the most important things to do is to make sure to drink plenty of water and include a lot of foods that have a lot of water in them, such as fruits and vegetables, into your diet. As a surfer, you know how much water influences life, including and especially your own. Make sure you are taking care of yourself and getting plenty of water to offset the dehydration caused by exposure to sun and salt water. After all, you need to be alert to stay safe out on the water, and nothing reduces alertness like being dehydrated.
CONCLUSION
Surfing is an exciting sport, full of possibilities and the anticipation of the next big wave. Keep this article in mind the next time you are thinking of ways to protect your skin so you can look and feel your best while you are waxing your board and getting ready for a new day of sun, surf and sand.
About The Author
stash member Vincent Stokes
Vincent Stokes is an outdoor enthusiast and an experienced world traveler. He also writes writes for the National Parks and works to promote pride in homegrown travel destinations. (@TravelingGlobal)