SUNSCREEN FOR SURFERS
Surfers face intense UV exposure from both direct sunlight and reflection off the water. A standard sunscreen often isn’t enough.
The best sunscreen for surfers needs to be water-resistant, long-lasting, and safe for the ocean environment.
Best Overall: Sun Bum Original SPF 50
Reliable, broad-spectrum protection designed for active, water-based environments. It goes on easily, absorbs well, and holds up during long surf sessions.
Why it stands out:
Strong water resistance
Lightweight feel (not overly greasy)
Easy to reapply between sessions
Best for: everyday surf use
Alternative: Raw Elements SPF 30/50
A mineral-based sunscreen built with reef-safe ingredients and long-lasting zinc protection. Slightly thicker, but extremely durable in the water.
Why choose this:
Reef-safe formula
Long-lasting physical barrier
Great for sensitive skin
Best for: eco-conscious surfers or long sessions
Face Protection (Zinc):
Best Overall: Surf Mud
For high-exposure areas like nose, lips, and cheeks, zinc offers a thicker barrier that stays on longer than traditional sunscreen.
Why it matters:
Doesn’t wash off easily
Ideal for 2–3+ hour sessions
Protects high-risk burn areas
Pro Tip
Use both:
Sunscreen for body
Zinc for face
From a Surfer + Medical Perspective
As someone who spends a lot of time in the water and works in healthcare, this is one of the areas I think surfers underestimate the most.
It’s not just about getting sunburned — it’s the repeated, long-term exposure that adds up over time. Surfing puts you in a high-risk environment with constant sun exposure and reflection off the water, often for hours at a time.
What many people don’t think about are the areas that are easy to miss:
Lips
Behind the ears
Scalp and hairline
Around the eyes
Inside the lower eyelid (UV exposure over time)
These are some of the most common places skin damage and skin cancers can develop because they’re often underprotected.
From a medical standpoint, early detection is everything. Regular skin checks—either self-checks or with a professional—can make a huge difference.