How Three Athletes Do Sun Protection

LONG HOURS TRAINING, competing, and working out in the sun demand a sunscreen that can go the distance. If you have yet to find an SPF that matches your energy and endurance, or just need some tips on how best to incorporate sunscreen into your active lifestyle, look to the pros for guidance. We asked three athletes to share their approaches to sun protection and the products from EltaMD that have earned their stamp of approval.

Tanner McDaniel, Professional Bodysurfer

Robbie Berman

Why Sun Protection Is Important to Me

In the surfing and bodyboarding community, we often talk about skin health. You look at all the older surfers and they’re all wrinkled up—they’ve spent their lives out in the sun, and you can really see the damage. There’s an extremely high rate of skin cancer among surfers because of that constant sun exposure. When you’re young, you don’t think as much about that; as you grow older, you really start to understand those consequences.

How, When, and What I Apply

I’m in Australia right now, and I wear a full wetsuit, so when I’m in the water, I’m covered from shoulders to ankles in neoprene. I’m pretty well protected, so I’ll apply sunscreen to my face, neck, and the backs of my hands.

But when I’m surfing in Hawaii, say, in board shorts or a smaller wetsuit, I always apply sunscreen to my arms, back, and even the backs of my legs, which otherwise get really burnt—basically, anywhere I’m exposed.

My ideal SPF has to be easy to apply and long-lasting. Water resistance is huge; so many sunscreens just wash off immediately. I love EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 because it goes on quickly and is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. Sunscreen that’s going to stick with me through the surf is really important.

My Advice

For athletes like me out in the glare, skin cancer is such a serious thing. You really have to remember that skipping your sunscreen even for a day…that adds up, especially if you’re pretty much spending your life out in the sun.

Meech Robinson, Fitness Coach and Former Professional Basketball Player

Meech Robinson

Why Sun Protection Is Important to Me

A few years ago, I realized that even though I don’t burn, I still need protection from the sun. I want that layer of protection just to keep my skin healthy and to look as young as I can, for as long as I can.

How, When, and What I Apply

I apply a facial sunscreen and then a body sunscreen on my arms, legs, and neck about 15 minutes before I go outside. I like EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 for my body and UV AOX Mist Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 for my face. I was looking for a mineral SPF that’s fragrance- and paraben-free and hypoallergenic, and these fit the bill. I also love that they rub in easily.

My Advice

Be diligent, even if you don’t get visible sunburns! Make sure you’re protected, especially if you’re out sweating in the sun for an extended period of time.

Eric Hinman, Triathlete

Eric Hinman

Why Sun Protection Is Important to Me

I used to ebb and flow with my SPF routine, but since moving to Colorado and being at elevation, I’ve found that it’s so much easier to get burned here. This has made me more cognizant about using sunscreen.

How, When, and What I Apply

I always apply sunscreen before a ride, but on a long training or race day, I also bring my SPF with me. This is especially important if I know the terrain will be more exposed to the sun.

I love EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 because it’s mineral-based and is easy to spray on—I’m solo on so many of my rides and adventures.

My Advice

You have to get into a routine of applying sunscreen before you head out and bringing it with you. I keep a small SPF in my car and have a carrying kit on my bike, so it’s always around.