Beyond the Cream: A Real Sun Protection Guide for Surfers

The August sun in the Canary Islands takes no prisoners. Sitting on your board waiting for your wave at Las Canteras means receiving solar radiation from two fronts: directly from the sky and reflected off the ocean itself, multiplying the impact on your skin and eyes.

Many novice surfers apply regular sunscreen before getting into the water, and twenty minutes later—between duck dives, rubbing against the board, and saltwater—they are completely unprotected. Here is what experienced surfers actually use to avoid getting burned.

The Difference Between Regular Sunscreen and Zinc

Conventional sunscreen, even if it claims to be "water-resistant," eventually washes off. Surfers use Zinc (zinc oxide). That white (or colored) paste you see on the faces of instructors and pros isn't makeup; it’s a physical sunblock. Unlike chemical sunscreens that the skin absorbs, zinc creates an opaque physical barrier that blocks UV rays and cannot be dissolved by water. It is applied to critical areas: nose, cheekbones, and lips.

The UV Rashguard: Your Best Armor

In summer, with the water at 22 or 23 degrees Celsius, it’s tempting to surf in boardshorts or a bikini. It’s an incredible feeling of freedom, but your back and shoulders will burn within the first hour. The solution is a UV protection Rashguard. Not only does it protect you 100% from the sun, but it also prevents chafing on your chest and stomach when paddling over the surfboard wax.

Eyes and Schedule: The Local Surfers' Secret

The ocean surface acts like a giant mirror. Photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye) and pterygium (surfer's eye—tissue growth on the eye) are common ailments among surfers who spend hours under the midday sun. The locals' solution? Surfing during the magic hours (Early bird or Sunset surf):

• Dawn (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Zero wind, glassy water, and the sun is barely warming up.
• Dusk (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Spectacular light and the lowest level of UV radiation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you remove zinc sunblock from your face?

Water and regular soap are not enough because zinc repels water. The best trick is to use an oil-based makeup wipe or coconut oil, rub gently, and then wash with regular soap.

Protect yourself like a pro. At the Oceanside Shop in Las Canteras, we have organic Zinc sticks, UV rashguards in all sizes, and surf hats. If you want to avoid the peak sun hours, check out our Sunset Surf Lesson schedules and enjoy the water in complete safety.