At Peña Txuri Surf Eskola, we know that surfing is more than a sport: it’s a constant connection with the sea, the wind… and the sun. That’s why protecting your skin from the sun becomes an absolute priority, both for our students and for our team.
We spend many hours outdoors, even on cloudy days, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years, it’s that the sun doesn’t let up. Here we share our most valuable tips for taking care of your skin like true surfers.
Índice
Why is it so important to protect your skin from the sun while surfing?
Water acts as a mirror that reflects the sun’s rays, multiplying their effect on our skin. Add to that the wind, salt, and friction with the board, and you have a cocktail that can damage even the most resistant skin.
Good protection not only prevents sunburn, but also avoids long-term problems such as premature aging, sun spots or, in more serious cases, skin cancer.
Sunscreen: what do we use at Peña Txuri?
At the school, we always recommend using broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher, covering both UVA and UVB rays. We find mineral sunscreen sticks especially effective because they:
- Are more resistant to water and sweat.
- Don’t sting your eyes.
- Can be easily applied to critical areas such as nose, cheekbones, ears, and lips.
However, applying it once is not enough: you need to reapply every 2-3 hours, even when in the water.
Avoid peak radiation hours
One of the tips we repeat most at the school is to avoid long sessions between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM, especially in summer.
Even when it’s cloudy, ultraviolet rays still come through strongly. If you can’t avoid getting in the water during these hours, wear a UV protection rash guard, neoprene cap and, of course, sunscreen.
Chafing and minor damage: how to prevent them
Friction with the board or wetsuit can cause irritation, especially if you spend a lot of time in the water. Our usual solution:
- Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to friction areas (neck, armpits, groin).
- If the skin is already irritated, we use natural products with rosehip oil or aloe vera, which help soothe and heal quickly.
The post-surf shower: essential
After getting out of the water, a freshwater shower is essential to remove salt and sunscreen residue. In addition to avoiding that typical itching after the session, it also helps the skin breathe and recover better.
This is a step we never skip at the school, especially after a long day at the beach.
Stay hydrated and eat well: your skin is also cared for from within
The sun and salt water cause dehydration, and that shows on your skin. That’s why at Peña Txuri we always insist on:
- Drinking water constantly, even when you’re not thirsty.
- Eating fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants (carrots, tomatoes, oranges, berries).
These habits help slow down skin aging and keep it in optimal condition.
Got sunburnt or injured? Take good care of your recovery
If you’ve suffered a sunburn or a wound, it’s best not to get in the water for a few days. The sun and salt can delay healing and leave lasting marks.
When the skin has already closed, we use healing essential oils such as lavender, calendula, or rosehip, always with sunscreen on top.
At Peña Txuri, taking care of your skin is part of good surfing
Protecting your skin from the sun is part of our daily routine, just like checking the surf report or warming up before getting in the water. For us, taking care of the body is part of respecting the sea and yourself.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been riding waves for years, we encourage you to incorporate these habits. Your skin will thank you now and for many years to come.
🌊 See you in the water, with protection, respect, and a great desire to surf!