Today, we want to write this post to raise awareness among all surfers about the impact the sun has on our skin, especially in the context of the ocean. Thanks to the concern of healthcare professionals and surfers like Sergio Correa, who advocate for spreading awareness about this issue that he encounters more and more as a doctor.

Surfing is a popular water sport, and Latas Surf Travel, we want to inform you about the consequences of sun exposure on our skin, including photoaging and the effects of UV radiation.

The skin is the largest organ of the body, with the primary function of protecting against organisms, chemicals, external agents, and temperature. The most common problem is that we often underestimate the importance of protecting our skin, which can lead to serious consequences, primarily melanoma.

Melanoma is a severe type of skin cancer that develops in the cells that produce melanin (melanocytes). Therefore, it is crucial to undergo regular skin check-ups, as early diagnosis of this cancer greatly impacts its prognosis.

When should you visit a dermatologist?

While regular check-ups are highly recommended, you should visit a dermatologist if you notice lesions (moles) with irregular borders, asymmetrical shapes, irregular colors or heterogeneous colors, a diameter larger than 6mm, or if you observe any changes in them. These characteristics can be summarized in the ABCDE rule:

  • (A)SYMMETRY: Asymmetry in any of its axes.
  • (B)ORDERS: Irregular borders.
  • (C)OLOR: Varied, not uniform.
  • (D)IAMETER: Larger than 6 millimeters.
  • (E)VOLUTION: Observation of changes in the mole over time.

8 Tips for taking care of your skin while surfing:

  1. Use high SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen (protecting against UVA and UVB rays). The sunscreen should be water-resistant, and it is recommended to apply it 2 or 3 times a day after your surf session.
  2. Protect forgotten areas of your body, such as hands, feet, and lips.
  3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin from the inside.
  4. Avoid entering the water during peak radiation hours.
  5. Rinse your body with fresh water after each surf session.
  6. Use vaseline on your neck and armpit areas to prevent irritation.
  7. Moisturize your skin with aftersun lotions. Using natural Aloe Vera is even better.
  8. Don’t rely on cloudy days; you can still get sunburned. Follow the same precautions as on a sunny day.