The Ultimate Guide to Surfer Skin Care

Photo by RDNE Stock project

Surfing is a fun sport that connects you with nature. While it offers excitement, it also exposes your skin to harsh elements like the sun, saltwater and wind. Constant exposure can lead to skin concerns and even increase your risk of developing severe conditions. Explore tips to help protect and nourish your skin, ensuring you can chase the waves for years to come.

What Does Surfing Do to Your Skin?

Surfing can benefit your health in many ways. Despite its advantages, it can take a toll on your skin over time. Since surfers spend extended time under the sun, their sunlight exposure is above average. 

Sun exposure is one of the most significant factors affecting skin aging. Spending more time in the water exposes you to UV radiation and heightens your risk of various conditions, including:

• Dry skin: Surfing can sap moisture from your skin.
• Sunburn: It’s one of the most common effects of prolonged sun exposure, characterized by a painful red patch or blister.
• Premature signs of skin aging: Signs include wrinkles and fine lines, which can make you look older than you are.
• Actinic keratosis: This is a dry, scaly bump with a pink, brown, yellow or red tint. Removal requires chemical treatment.
• Hyperpigmentation: It’s a term to describe any type of discoloration, including melasma, age spots and freckles.
• Higher risk of skin cancer: An Australian study found that outdoor enthusiasts — including surfers — are at higher risk of melanoma skin cancer.

7 Skin Tips Every Surfer Should Know

Discover how to take care of your skin while riding epic waves.

1. Wear Sunscreen

UV is ever-present. On the water, it hits you twice — from the sun and as it bounces off the sea to your skin, which increases your UV exposure. This is why using sun protection is crucial to maintaining a healthy complexion. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more and reapply every two hours.

Aside from safeguarding your skin from harmful UV rays, wearing sunscreen can also provide:

• Hydration: The saltwater, wind and sun decrease moisture. Using a reef-safe, moisturizing sunscreen can help ensure hydration.
• Enhanced surf performance: Experiencing sunburn sting or dry, itchy skin while surfing can be distracting. Proper sun protection allows you to focus on surfing and improve your techniques.

2. Shower After Surfing

Saltwater, sand, algae and bacteria can stick to your skin after surfing. A cold shower is the best way to rinse off these elements and regain moisture. It can also help increase blood flow, boost immunity and improve hair health. You may choose to indulge in a warm bath instead. 

Use a gentle soap or cleanser for your face and body. Don’t forget your scalp — use a shampoo that cleans gently and effectively. 

3. Moisturize Before and After Surfing

Surfing for hours in a wetsuit causes friction on your skin, which may result in irritation. It can happen when you’re allergic to fabrics like latex and polyester. Avoid rashes by applying moisturizer to areas prone to chafing to avoid blisters, discomfort and pain. Similarly, apply the same product all over your body after surfing to boost recovery. Use a product that’s formulated for your skin type.

4. Eat and Drink Right

Boost your skin’s recovery from the inside out. Water is crucial for a healthier complexion, and as a surfer, you must stay hydrated before and after surfing. Always carry a reusable water bottle to the beach so you can drink anytime. 

Proper hydration is beneficial for a heavy surf session since it:

• Boosts performance
• Promotes faster recovery
• Improves skin health
• Flushes out toxins from the body
• Regulates body temperature

Fruits and vegetables — such as tomatoes, sweet potatoes, almonds and red grapes — are packed with antioxidants to counteract the effects of UV-induced free radicals. Add foods with high water content — such as watermelon, strawberries and cucumber — to boost your hydration levels.

5. Protect Your Hands and Lips

Many surfers know that UV rays can also damage their lips and hands. Be sure to use hydrating lip balm with sun protection and reapply it throughout the day. As for your hands, apply sunscreen to avoid wrinkles.

6. Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing sun-protective attire — whether you’re surfing for 30 minutes or spending two hours under the sun — is one of the easiest ways to protect your skin, so cover up as much as possible. Use a surf hat to prevent UV rays from hitting your face and eyes.

7. Seek Shade

Finding shade can be challenging, especially when you’re on the beach. One easy way to avoid high UV exposure is to surf early in the morning. Another option is to surf near a shaded area or bring a beach umbrella where you can rest occasionally.

Post-Surf Skin Protection Routine

Your skin may require extra care to recover from sun exposure after a day of surfing. 

1. Apply Retinol

Retinol is a type of retinoid that can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines — two signs of premature aging caused by sun exposure. Use it at night since it makes skin more sensitive to UV rays.

2. Use a Gentle Cleanser

Continue using a mild cleanser to eliminate pollutants without stripping your skin of its natural oils. It may be too harsh if you experience feelings of tightness. 

3. Keep Skin Moisturized

Apply a rich, hydrating cream to exposed areas after showering to keep your skin moisturized throughout the day. 

4. Exfoliate Gently

Use a gentle exfoliator to eliminate dead skin cells a few days after surfing. Skip this step if you have sunburn, as it can worsen the damage and cause more pain.

5. Stay Away From Chlorinated Pools

Avoid going to pools with chlorinated water for a few days, especially if you have a sunburn or skin irritation. Chlorine can cause dryness and may aggravate existing dermatitis.

6. Use Healing Ointment

Apply healing ointment to dry patches or scrapes to speed up the recovery process. Consider visiting your physician for sunburns that don’t heal in a few days or a week.

Protect Your Skin While Surfing

Follow these skin care tips to make surfing a fun and safer experience. Incorporating these strategies into your lifestyle will protect your skin from the harsh effects of sun, saltwater and wind. With proper care, you can maintain a vibrant complexion while riding the waves.