Surfing shifts you into a peaceful, serene flow. Allowing yourself to be connected with the rhythm of the ocean brings on an amazing sense of tranquility and joy. However, this amazing experience can become painful if we don’t take care to protect our skin from exposure to harsh UV rays by wearing sunscreen.
With so many different types of sunscreen on the market, how do you know which one is best for surfing? For surfers looking for optimal protection against damage caused by potentially harmful UV rays while out in the surf, look no further - we’ve gathered five sunscreens that are specially designed for those long days spent paddleboarding or catching waves. Let's dive into what makes these sunscreens stand out and why they may be a good fit for surf sunscreen for your next water adventure.
We take the guesswork out of finding the best products. Each product was individually selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to try out for ourselves and some we combed through thousands of reviews to find, but all opinions in this article are our own.
P.S. LindsaysReviews may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something at no extra cost to you (that's how we stay in business and keep bringing you the best finds to save you time).
How We Chose The Best Sunscreen For Surfing
When it comes to choosing the right sunscreen for surfing, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you want a sunscreen that is waterproof and sweat-proof so that it will stay on your skin even if you spend hours in the water.
Second, it should provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Third, it should be free of common skin irritants like parabens and phthalates, so that it won’t cause any adverse reactions.
Lastly, you want a good sunscreen, that is easy to apply and re-apply throughout the day - no one wants to take a break from surfing in order to lather up. So without further ado, let's take a look at our top 5 picks for the best sunscreen for surfing.
Headhunter Heavy Duty Reef Safe Sunscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
Headhunter Heavy Duty Reef Safe Sunscreen is a great choice of sunscreen for surfers and other water sport enthusiasts. It provides superior SPF 50 skin defense against damage, while being reef safe. The non-migrating formula ensures it won’t sting your eyes or feel greasy on your skin. Plus, it has a fast and easy application and comes in a convenient 3oz travel-friendly size.
The natural mineral ingredients provide superior face and body coverage in a tinted light brown formula. Also, it is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. And with a shelf life of 2 years, you know it won’t be going bad anytime soon.
So if you’re looking for a heavy duty surf and water resistant sunscreen, designed specifically for surfers and water sport enthusiasts, then Headhunter Heavy Duty Reef Safe Sunscreen is the perfect choice.
All The Details
The Headhunter Heavy Duty Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 50 is the perfect sunscreen for surfing. This natural mineral sunscreen provides great protection and heavy-duty skin defense while being reef safe and non-irritating.
This fast and easy application formula applies and absorbs easily, won’t sting eyes, is lightweight and non-greasy. The light brown tinted formula provides superior face and body coverage in an easy to travel size.
Whether you’re a surfer or avid water sport enthusiast, this sunscreen will keep you safe from the harsh UV rays of the sun. Don’t forget to reapply zinc sunscreen after every 80 minutes of being in water. Also, always apply sunscreen bottle least 15 minutes prior to surfing for the best coverage.
Zinka Sunscreen Face Stick
Why It's Our Top Pick
The Zinka Sunscreen Face Stick is a great choice for those looking for an easy to apply and highly effective sunscreen. This non-greasy, lightweight face stick provides broad spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays. Plus, it is water resistant up to 80 minutes which makes it perfect for surfing and other water activities.
The convenient shape and size of the stick make application quick and mess free no need to rub it in. Also, the clear formula is great for both kids and adults of all ages. And with a shelf life of 2 years, you can be sure it won’t go bad anytime soon. So if you’re looking for an easy to apply and effective sunscreen for surfing, then the Zinka Sunscreen Face Stick is a great choice.
All The Details
The Zinka Clear Face Stick SPF30 is a water resistant and long-lasting face sunscreen that delivers extreme sun protection of SPF50+ against UVA and UVB rays. The convenient shape and size of the face stick is quick and non-messy to apply, with just one easy motion.
The lightweight, non-greasy formula is suitable for both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for surfing or any other outdoor activity when you need superior protection against the sun's damaging rays.
The active ingredient of Zinc Oxide 5% ensures that you get the maximum protection from this top sunscreen for surfing and other outdoor activities. Also, the formula of zinc oxide top sunscreen is fragrance-free and coconut oil -free, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60 is the perfect choice for those looking for a sunscreen that provides maximum natural sun protection while still being gentle on the skin.
This lightweight and oil-free sunscreen is formulated with Cell-Ox Shield technology, which helps protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays as well as environmental aggressors like pollution.
The non-greasy formula feels great on the skin and absorbs quickly, making it perfect for long days spent in the water. Plus, this sunscreen is free of oxybenzone, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
So if you’re looking for a sunscreen that provides superior sun protection without irritation or greasiness, then the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen is the perfect choice.
All The Details
The Lareche-Posay Anthelios Melt In Milk Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 60 is an oil free sunscreen for sensitive skin, designed for intense sun exposure and sport activities. Its Cell-Ox Shield Technology + Antioxidant protection provides optimal protection against UVA/UVB rays, blue light damage from smartphones, tablets, and computers as well as pollution.
This surfing sunscreen that is Oxybenzone Free so its perfect for surfers looking for a gentle option to protect their skin. Also, it’s unscented and fast-absorbing. So if you are looking for the best surfing sunscreen, that is lightweight, non-greasy and offers a high level of protection, then this may be the one for you.
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
The CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is the perfect choice for surfing and those looking for an effective sunscreen without compromising on skin care. This mineral-based sunscreen reflects UVA/UVB rays from the skin, helping to protect it from sun damage.
It is free of oxybenzone, avobenzone, and benzene making it ideal for those who are looking for a Hawaii compliant sunscreen. Plus this noncomedogenic formula is packed with essential ceramides that help to restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
So if you’re looking for a sunscreen that not only provides superior sun protection, but also helps to improve your skin health at the same time, then this is the one for you.
All The Details
The CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is the perfect sunscreen for surfers looking to protect their skin from UV rays while out in the water. This physical sunscreen contains only mineral-based filters, such as non nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reflect UVA/UVB rays without leaving a white cast on damaged skin of your face.
It also includes three essential ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Its oil-free, fragrance-free, noncomedogenic formula is suitable for all skin types and recommended by both the Skin Cancer Foundation and National Eczema Association as an effective broad spectrum sunscreen.
Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
Why It's Our Top Pick
The Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen is an ideal sunscreen for surfers that are looking for a safe, all natural ingredients and vegan way to protect their skin. This sunscreen provides broad spectrum UVA & UVB protection with no unpleasant chemical scent, and has been tested to provide water resistance up to 80 minutes in the pool or sea.
It is free from known chemicals that can be harmful to coral reefs, meaning you not only get effective sun protection but you’re also looking at sunscreen guide is after the environment too. If a safe, natural and reef friendly sunscreen is what you’re after then this one is for you.
All The Details
The ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen is a safe, all natural mineral sunscreens and protection option for surfers who want to ensure they are protected from the sun and harmful UV rays. The broad spectrum UVA & UVB sun cream is suitable for daily use on even sensitive skin and provides gentle defense against the sun’s rays while out in the surf.
The hydrating sunscreen is quick and easy to apply, and protection begins instantly. The fast absorbing SPF 50+ sunscreen won’t leave your skin feeling oily or sticky, and has no unpleasant chemical scent.
Thinksport's vegan, Leaping Bunny certified sunscreen contains no PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemical sunscreens.
Best Sunscreen For Surfing FAQs
Is SPF 50 better than SPF 30?
Yes. An SPF 50 sunscreen will provide much more protection to bare skin from the sun’s rays than an SPF 30, blocking out 98% of UVB rays compared to 97% for an SPF 30.
Do I need to wear sunscreen when surfing?
Yes. It is important to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays while you are in the surf. You should always apply a broad spectrum sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 before getting into the water.
What is a reef safe sunscreen?
A really reef friendly and safe sunscreen is one that does not contain any of the common ingredients that can be damaging to coral reefs, such as oxybenzone or octinoxate. These reef safe sunscreens are often mineral-based and provide natural protection from the sun without harming marine ecosystems.
Should I reapply sunscreen while surfing?
Yes. You should always reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you are swimming or sweat a lot. It is also important to apply after toweling off, as this can help to increase its effectiveness.
How do I choose the best sunscreen for surfing?
When choosing a sunscreen for surfing, it is important to look for one that offers broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, has an SPF of at least 30, and is water-resistant. It is also advisable to look for sunscreens that are reef safe, as these will not be damaging to the environment. Mineral based are a great choice as they provide extra protection without leaving a white cast on your skin.
Do I need to wear sunscreen in the water?
Yes. Even if you are swimming or surfing, it is important to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 before getting into the water. This will help to protect your skin from sun damage and ensure that you stay safe while out in the surf.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes. Most sunscreens will have a shelf life of two to three years, after which they should be discarded and replaced with a new one. It is important to check the expiration date on your sunscreen before using it, as this can help you to ensure that you are getting the most effective protection from UV rays.
Can I wear sunscreen while surfing?
Yes. Wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before entering the water is essential for protecting your skin from sun damage. Look for sunscreen brands with a water-resistant and reef safe formulation to ensure that you have optimal protection from the sun’s rays while out in the surf.
Are mineral sunscreens better for surfing?
Yes. Mineral based sunscreens are often considered the best choice for surfers, as they provide natural protection from UV rays without leaving a white cast on your skin. They are also less likely to be damaging to coral reefs, making them an eco-friendly option.
Best Sunscreen For Surfing For You
Sunscreens can either make your surfing experience a pleasant one or it can be a painful one and you might end up getting burned due to UV rays, and other related problems and skin cancer that can come from sun exposure.
From the list of 5 Best Sunscreen That We Just Shared With You, we hope that you can find one that best suits your skin protection needs. Remember to apply them generously for maximum protection against UV rays.
After all, no fun in surfing when you're dealing with sunburns. So go out there with confidence, enjoy the waves, and protect yourself from sun exposure with one of these top 5 Best Sunscreens For Surfing.
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