Surfing and Skin Care: How to Age Gracefully as a Surfer
Surfing is often seen as a youthful and exhilarating sport that’s all about catching the perfect wave.
But the harsh reality is that surfing, like any other water activity, can take a toll on your skin over time.
Sun exposure, which is an essential part of surfing, can lead to a range of skin problems that make surfers look older and feel less confident.
In this article, we’ll explore the ways surfers protect themself against the sun, how it might affect them in the long run, and how to maintain healthy skin while still surfing for many years to come.
Sunscreen is a surfer’s best friend. Don’t act surprised. Now let’s cover some of the most asked questions in regard to surfers’ skin care and aging.
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Do Surfers Age Badly?
After years of research and personal experience, I can confidently say that surfers definitely age differently.
Between long days in the ocean and hours spent in the sun, the surfing lifestyle is one of the most physically demanding activities out there.
It is true though that surfing, like any outdoor activity, can have an impact on your skin over time, and whether you will be affected by it or not depends on several factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and skincare routine.
Sun exposure is one of the most significant factors that can affect the skin’s aging process.
As surfers spend a lot of time in the water, they’re more exposed to UV radiation, which can cause sun damage, wrinkles, and age spots.
The constant exposure to saltwater and wind can also cause dryness, irritation, and inflammation, which can accelerate the aging process.
Nonetheless, it’s important to note that not all surfers age badly. Those who take proper care of their skin by wearing sunscreen, moisturizing regularly, and protecting their face and body from the sun’s harmful rays can maintain healthy and youthful skin for longer.
Genetics also play a role in skin aging, so some surfers may have better skin than others, regardless of their lifestyle and habits.
Do Surfers Have Bad Skin?
Another common question regarding surfers and skin is whether they have bad skin. Again, the answer is not black and white, as it depends on individual factors.
Yet, it’s true that surfing can cause some skin problems that may be perceived as “bad” by some people.
For instance, constant exposure to salt water can cause dryness and irritation, which can lead to flaky, rough, or red skin.
Not only that, but salt water can also strip away your skin’s natural oils, making it more vulnerable to environmental stressors.
Still, it’s important to note that not all surfers have bad skin. Those who take care of their skin and use appropriate products can prevent or minimize these problems.
For example, using a gentle cleanser and moisturizer can help restore the skin’s natural barrier and prevent dryness and irritation.
Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher, depending on your spot location, can significantly protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and prevent sunburn, premature aging, and very unwanted skin cancer.
Does Surfing Make You Look Older?
You’re wondering if surfing makes you look older, and even though it depends on various factors, you were right — the answer is yes, it can.
As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin, which are the proteins responsible for keeping our skin firm and elastic.
UV radiation, pollution, and lifestyle habits such as smoking can also damage these proteins, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging.
Surfing can also contribute to this process by exposing the skin to UV radiation and other environmental stressors.
As we learned before, the combination of sun exposure, salt water, and wind can dry out the skin and cause wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
Moreover, the constant squinting and facial expressions required during surfing can slightly contribute to the formation of wrinkles around the eyes and forehead.
And still, it’s important to note that not all surfers look older than their age.
Those who take proper care of their skin and adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as a balanced diet, hydration, and exercise can maintain a youthful appearance for longer.
Moreover, some surfers may look younger than non-surfers due to the exercise and outdoor lifestyle benefits that surfing provides.
Does Surfing Make You Age Faster?
So surfers’ skin doesn’t always age well. You might have seen this at the beach before as some surfers look older than their age.
Generally, if you keep spending hours in the water you’re prone to harm your skin and as you age it might not be reversible.
There are some tips that you should follow to prevent yourself from aging faster.
Taking Care of Your Skin For Anti-Aging
Surfers must take special care of their skin to slow down the aging process. Here are a couple of must-haves to protect your skin.
Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an essential part of protection for your skin, even on cloudy days, as it helps protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Make sure to re-apply your sunscreen every 2 hours and opt for a sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher.
Moisturize Regularly
Surfers should also moisturize their skin regularly to prevent dryness and irritation from the saltwater.
Look for a hydrating moisturizer that contains glycerin, ceramide, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter to lock in moisture and protect your skin from environmental stressors.
Face Wash & Cleanser
After surfing, opt for a gentle cleanser or face wash to remove dirt, sweat, and sunscreen residue without stripping away the skin’s natural oils.
Avoid harsh exfoliators that can damage the protective barrier of the skin and cause dryness and irritation.
Eat Healthy & Stay Hydrated
It’s also important to consume a balanced diet and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to keep your skin healthy and youthful.
Eating foods rich in antioxidants such as berries, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and fish can help protect your skin from free radical damage.
Wearing a Hat
I’m serious, especially if you’re in your 60s and above, wear a hat. Wearing a bucket or a brimmed hat will help protect vulnerable areas of your face and neck from sun damage.
Plus, it’s cool. Yes, it is.
Final Thoughts
surfing can have an impact on your skin’s health and aging process, but it doesn’t mean you have to give up your passion.
By taking proper care of your skin and protecting it from the elements, you can prevent or minimize skin problems and maintain a youthful appearance for longer.
Remember to wear sunscreen, moisturize, and use protective clothing and accessories, and don’t forget to adopt healthy lifestyle habits that support your skin’s health from the inside out