LATHER UP
Get To Know Your Sun Protection For Summer

How do you like your grommets? Extra crispy?

4) Don’t Trust The FDA - Become a Sunscreen Gumshoe:
The process to become FDA approved as a basic waterproof sunscreen requires test subjects to apply sunscreen and lounge in a pool for a certain amount of time without the product rubbing off. It does not require marathon sessions at a tropical reef break, or extended sweaty hiking and surfing at your local secret spot. “Some sun care products are not specifically developed for athletes and make compromises on certain product attributes that would negatively effect the surfer,” explains Dr. Martens. “The FDA test is geared towards the mass market consumer, not the oceangoing athlete.” Mr. Littlemore of Headhunter agrees. “The FDA is going up against big money as large pharmaceutical companies own the sunscreen brands. Stay away from bold claims like ‘8- Hour Protection’ and ‘Total Waterproofing’ as they simply can't be substantiated and aren't applicable to use of the product while surfing.” That said, all hope is not lost. Plenty of sunscreen companies do their own independent research to create a superior waterproof product. The catch is you need to find this info out yourself. Be a skeptic and peruse your sunscreen’s Web site — you can even call them. Ask if extensive testing is done in the ocean and with athletes. Don't assume you get the full story on the label.

5) Fast Facts: Sunscreen is not a fashion item.
You need something that works. Period. As surfers we are exposed to 50 percent more harmful rays via reflection off the water, increasing our chances of getting overexposed. Ninety percent of skin cancers are caused by sun exposure, and there are more cases of skin cancer diagnosed each year than all other cancers combined. Don’t count out what scientists refer to as “incidental exposure,” the average, everyday exposure to sunlight that can accumulate to cause significant damage to your skin. Dr. Martens suggests wearing sunscreen daily for maximum safety and protection. Skin cancer is a growing but preventable problem, so do some investigating and slop on the screen!