As a surfer, I have experienced the thrill of riding the perfect wave and feeling the rush of adrenaline. But amidst all the fun and excitement, it is crucial to remember to take care of our skin, especially the delicate skin around our eyes. The combination of sun, saltwater, and wind can cause damage and premature aging to our skin. In this article, I will share some expert tips on how to protect the delicate skin around our eyes while surfing.
The Importance of Skincare for Surfers
Surfing exposes our skin to various elements that can be harmful.The sun's UV rays are stronger when we are out on the water, and the reflection off the water can intensify their effects. The saltwater can also dry out our skin, making it more susceptible to damage. And let's not forget about the wind, which can cause chapping and irritation. But aside from these external factors, surfing itself can also cause damage to our skin. The constant exposure to water and friction from our board can strip away our skin's natural oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable. That's why it is crucial for surfers to have a proper skincare routine in place to protect their skin from these elements.
And one area that often gets overlooked is the delicate skin around the eyes.
The Delicate Skin Around Our Eyes
The skin around our eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of our face. It has fewer oil glands, making it more prone to dryness and wrinkles. This area is also more sensitive, making it more susceptible to irritation and damage. When we are out surfing, this delicate skin is exposed to the sun, saltwater, and wind, making it even more vulnerable. And because it is such a small area, any damage or signs of aging are more noticeable. That's why it is essential to take extra care of the skin around our eyes while surfing.Tips for Protecting the Delicate Skin Around Our Eyes
Now that we understand the importance of skincare for surfers and the delicate skin around our eyes, let's discuss some expert tips on how to protect this area while surfing.1.Wear Sunglasses
The first and most crucial step in protecting the delicate skin around our eyes is to wear sunglasses.Not only do they protect our eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays, but they also shield the skin around our eyes from direct exposure. When choosing sunglasses for surfing, opt for a pair with polarized lenses. These lenses reduce glare from the water, making it easier to see while out on the waves. They also provide better protection against UV rays.
2.Apply Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must for any outdoor activity, and surfing is no exception. Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before heading out to catch some waves.And don't forget to reapply every two hours or after getting out of the water. When applying sunscreen around our eyes, be gentle and avoid getting it in our eyes. We can also use a mineral-based sunscreen specifically designed for the face, as these are less likely to irritate the delicate skin around our eyes.
3.Use a Moisturizer
As mentioned earlier, surfing can strip away our skin's natural oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable. That's why it is essential to use a moisturizer to replenish and protect our skin. When choosing a moisturizer, opt for one with SPF for added protection. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate and plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.4.Protect Our Lips
The skin on our lips is also delicate and can easily become dry and chapped while surfing.Make sure to apply a lip balm with SPF before heading out to protect our lips from the sun and wind. We can also use a lip balm with natural ingredients like beeswax or shea butter to keep our lips hydrated and protected.
5.Wear a Hat
In addition to sunglasses, wearing a hat can provide extra protection for the delicate skin around our eyes. Opt for a wide-brimmed hat that will not only shield our face from the sun but also protect our scalp from sunburn.6.Rinse with Fresh Water
After a day of surfing, make sure to rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible. This will help remove any saltwater or sand that may have accumulated on our skin, which can cause irritation and dryness. We can also use a gentle cleanser to remove any sunscreen or other products we may have applied before heading out to surf.In Conclusion
Surfing is an exhilarating sport that can take a toll on our skin, especially the delicate skin around our eyes. But by following these expert tips, we can protect this area and keep our skin looking healthy and youthful. Remember to always wear sunglasses, apply sunscreen, use a moisturizer, protect our lips, wear a hat, and rinse with fresh water after surfing.With these simple steps, we can enjoy the waves while keeping our skin protected.
